Cru wants you to level up — and has a crew of hip-hop heavyweights to help spread the message.
The Mumbai, CA-born, California-raised R&B/pop artist manifests dreams on her new single “Masterplan,” crafted by multi-platinum producer Cha Cha Malone and with rapper Junoflo. With pop and hip-hop influences from across India, Korea and the US, “Masterplan” makes its exclusive premiere on Advertising sign in front of him worldwide release on May 17.
Over the scrappy production that kicks off with Malone's producer signature “I need a Cha Cha beat, boy” heard on dozens of K-pop and Korean hip-hop hits, Kru presents her “master plan” for a road to success: million dollar deals, lavish luxuries and unwavering commitment. Junoflo accompanies her on the journey with the Korean-American MC delivering an innuendo-laden rap verse that shows support for his wife's goals while still promoting his own.
Classically trained in opera and the traditional Indian dance Bharathanatyam, Kru combined her range of musical experimentation for a piece with universal and empowering themes that can transcend any cultural or gender barrier.
“Designed with women in mind, but welcoming of all genders, this song seeks to uplift individuals by showcasing their talents and perseverance, ultimately earning them the respect they deserve,” says Kru. Advertising sign. “'Masterplan' was created to inspire success and empower listeners to overcome obstacles.”
Junoflo, a longtime fan of Cha Cha Malone's work, jumped at the chance to collaborate. “Writing the verse was light work because Cha Cha's production makes it easy,” says the SoCal star. “Throughout my music career, I've met Cha Cha so many times, both in Korea and America, and we've always talked about working on a record, but the timing never seemed to work. One day, he teased me by telling me about this song he's listening to me on, and I was just like, 'You bet, let's run it.' Turns out it was for this talented artist called Kru, and I'm always all for working with new artists. Even though I don't make a lot of music in that style anymore, I do my best to be as flexible as I can and I'm always open to all kinds of music as long as it hits!”
After producing 2023 hits for his longtime creative and business partner Jay Park, as well as Korean pop and R&B stars like Han Seung Woo and Hoody, Cha Cha Malone says he's “grateful to both Kru and Juno who bring this record to life.”
“I wanted to sound edgy and charismatic with a touch of sexiness,” the Seattle native explains. “Definitely a vibe for a commanding artist that is Kru. Her voice, her dance, [and] Her incarnation is just that. it was an effortless fit. Pair it with Junoflo, it further cements my intentions with the piece! His tone and pace have just the right sauce for a perfect feature.”
Perfectly timed to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month in May, “Masterplan” marks the first of three singles from Kru's upcoming EP, titled INEVITABLE, which will be produced entirely by Cha Cha Malone. In the meantime, Junoflo announced on May 15 that his new album, JUNE ONLYØit drops in a few weeks on June 5th.
Listen to 'Masterplan' below:
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/pop/kru-masterplan-feat-junoflo-prod-cha-cha-malone-premiere-1235684094/