The relationship may be going on strong for Noah Cyrus and Lil Xan, but the same can’t be said about their uneven collaborative single, “Live or Die.”

Some collaborations are doomed from the start.  While the relationship between Noah Cyrus and Lil Xan may be ‘popping,’ the same can’t be said of their new single, “Live or Die.” Yep, like Super Ted, this was “made all wrong from the start.” Despite its issues, “Live or Die” clocks in at a respectable duration, lasting about 3:15. Perfect.  Also, the urban-pop sound isn’t a bad look – synths, R&B flavored vocals by Cyrus, and harmonized vocals.  It’s everything else that derails it.

The record begins with the pre-chorus and chorus performed by Noah Cyrus. Naturally, the lyrics focus on love, and it definitely feels tailor-made to the relationship between Cyrus and Lil Xan.  Yeah, go ahead and barf.  Lil Xan raps the first verse, with some parts where Cyrus joins him. He raps about his come-up and taking care of his family, and of course, about Cyrus – “If I’m religious, you’re the one that I believe in.” Again, go ahead and barf.  Give him some credit – at least you can understand him more than usual… Xan also handles most of the second verse, with Cyrus joining him at the end (“I just wanna run away-ay-ay”), while singing the final lyric, “With you baby,” by herself. The chorus performed by Cyrus reappears at the end (first heard at the beginning), followed by harmonizing.

Final Thoughts

Hmm, I like some of the musical ideas, but “Live or Die” is all over the place.  The production is imperfect with some bizarre musical synths, the melody has its moments, but there are quirks there as well. Honestly, it just doesn’t work out perfectly in my eyes.  Nothing wrong with love, but this single isn’t a great musical representation.

Noah Cyrus & Lil Xan • Live or Die – Single • RECORDS, LLC • Release: 8.20.18

Photo Credit: RECORDS, LLC