In a momentous comeback, Major Lazer’s Diplo and Switch reunite with iconic artist M.I.A. on the newly released track, “Where’s The Daddy?”
This marks the first collaboration between the original Major Lazer duo and M.I.A. in over a decade. The track is part of the 15th anniversary reissue of Major Lazer’s groundbreaking debut album, Guns Don’t Kill People…Lazers Do, set to release on November 15, 2024.
A Look at the Collaboration
“Where’s The Daddy?” dropped on November 7, 2024, accompanied by a high-energy music video featuring Diplo, Switch, and M.I.A. cruising through Malibu in a futuristic Cybertruck. This visual spectacle highlights the trio’s dynamic synergy, reminiscent of the early Major Lazer era, and is a testament to their innovative approach to music and visual storytelling.
Origin and Significance
Diplo shared insight into the collaboration’s history, noting, “Major Lazer’s origin story is a jumbled-up mess… M.I.A. was the third daddy of Major Lazer.” This reunion celebrates the creative bond that originally sparked the birth of Major Lazer, fusing Diplo’s Philadelphia roots, Switch’s London edge, and M.I.A.’s eclectic style. Switch described rediscovering the unreleased tracks as “like opening a musical treasure trove,” bringing back memories of their early recording sessions in Jamaica, which laid the foundation for the group’s iconic sound.
Track and Video Highlights
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The “Where’s The Daddy?” video perfectly encapsulates the bold and experimental ethos of Major Lazer’s early days. The visuals, filled with vibrant energy and quirky elements, pay homage to their past collaborations while integrating a modern twist. Fans can listen to the track and watch the video on major streaming platforms.
Celebrating 15 Years of ‘Guns Don’t Kill People…Lazers Do’
The reissue of Guns Don’t Kill People…Lazers Do marks 15 years since the album’s initial release in 2009. The album was groundbreaking at the time, blending Caribbean dancehall with electronic music and bringing a unique sound to the American mainstream. The anniversary edition includes unreleased tracks such as “Where’s The Daddy?” and “Pon de Streets,” as well as the re-release of “Zumbie” featuring Andy Milonakis.
Legacy of Major Lazer
Over the years, Major Lazer evolved from a studio project into a festival headliner, captivating audiences with hits like the Diamond-certified “Lean On” and “Light It Up.” The 15th anniversary reissue not only celebrates the duo’s achievements but also brings attention to the global impact of their music. The original duo of Diplo and Switch, along with collaborators like M.I.A., played a significant role in redefining pop and electronic music.
What’s Next?
Fans are eagerly awaiting the full release of the 15th anniversary edition on November 15, which will include a limited-edition vinyl reissue. This milestone offers a chance to reflect on how far Major Lazer has come and the legacy they continue to build with each new release.