Suffering from the immense pain of a bad breakup, Phora expresses his heartbreak superbly on the track, via “Holding On.”

In 2017, Phora issued his debut album, Yours Truly Forever on Warner Bros.  Unfortunately for the rapper, the effort arrived quietly, with little fanfare.  After sampling portions of the album (“God” and “Numb” both appear in playlists), it’s clear that this guy is talented.  He showcases that talent once more on a new single, “Holding On.” Even if the ‘going was tough’ in regards to ‘putting numbers on the board,’ Phora shows he’s still on the grind.

“Baby I’ve been trying, nothing seems to cover up the pain

I’ve been trying, holding on, holding on.”

What stands out about “Holding On” is how incredibly emotional Phora sounds.  Clearly, he’s infusing his entire heart and soul into this performance.  Every f-bomb, used to accentuate his points, feels that more intense because of the nuance and authenticity of his instrument.  On the first verse, he raps:

“Yeah, I’ve just been so numb, it feels like nothing’s real

I’ve just been so empty, I can’t f**kin’ feel

But I can feel my body start to fade

My heart is cold that’s why I’m so sick of taking all these f**kin’ pills.”

Clearly, Phora is in a bad place, following a breakup.  He mentions blood throughout his verse, expressing his willingness to bleed as well as the blood he’s shed following the end of the relationship. Despite the fact that things are over, he’s struggling to cope.

Final Thoughts

In reiteration, Phora is incredibly talented.  He shows that talent off excellently on “Holding On,” where his pain is the listener’s pleasure.  Hopefully, the rapper gets his just due sooner than later.

Phora • Holding On– Single • Warner Bros. • Release: 3.30.18

Photo Credits: Warner Bros.