LEO XIV - Feel

Leo XIV - FEEL

Leo XIV, a Chicago based indie artist, has released his second single titled “Feel,” which follows his recently released debut, “Midas.” This artist project is the creative outlet of singer, songwriter, and producer Dylan Leo Azadi, who has focused his career on mixing elements of alternative pop and R&B to create atmospheric songs that feature emotionally heavy and vulnerable lyrics.

The song starts off with a strong sound. It might be built around a minimalist rhythm, but the track features a pulsing acid bass line that gives “Feel” a bit of a retro energy. While hard to directly compare, at moments it features the sharp transitions, yet clean production of Michael Jackson’s late-’80s work. Layered synths and a reliable beat make the track easily danceable. Leo XIV’s vocal performance is unpolished, but it appears to be in a purposeful way. The rawness of it adds to the song’s vulnerability. The result is a production that sounds cathartic and remains uniquely understated at the same time.

Lyrically, as the title might suggest, “Feel” centers on the recurring phrase “I got a feeling” and a catchy, yet harsh, chorus that features lyrics like, “If you’re alone inside, don’t call on me / ’Cause I’ll wake you / If you start the pain, you’ll start the healing.” While “Feel” might not sound like a breakup song at first, there is a bit of tension in the lyrics, which struggles around finding the balance between self-protection and openness. These lines, and the ones that follow, showcase the song's range of emotions.

While it might just be his second single to date, “Feel” captures Leo XIV’s unique production, vocal, and songwriting skills. Hard to find today, it’s a track that you can dance to but also relate to with its thoughtful lyrics and a glimpse into his personal artistry. It might just be a teaser for his work to come on his forthcoming debut album, Cold Open, which is expected to be released in early 2026.