I just had my first cry of 2025.
Make no mistake: Rod Wave is a big dog in the game now. With successful arena tours, major album features, and strong album sales, he’s cemented his place at the top. So, whenever he drops something new, we’re all over it.
Today, Rod Wave returned with a powerful single, “Westside Connection.” It’s his first release of 2025 and his first since dropping Last Lap about four months ago (I’m calling it now—a deluxe is on the way).
In “Westside Connection,” Rod Wave delves into the emotional pain of betrayal and longing for someone he hasn’t seen in a while, reflecting on the emotional toll of a complicated relationship while also yearning for connection, all while navigating the distance created by his busy tour schedule on the West Coast. Yes, someone is playing with Rod’s heart again.
Every time I think Rod Wave can’t get any more emotional, he surprises me. In “Westside Connection,” he breaks out his most touching vocals, sounding like an absolute angel with battle scars and a little weight on him. He also delivers his signature repeating of a line over and over again, which really jams the song’s message into your mind.
Check out “Westside Connection” below.
Quincy is the creator of Ratings Game Music. He loves writing about music, taking long walks on beaches, and spaghetti that fights him back.
