HI-LO and ZHU Collaborate on Dark Techno Masterpiece “Afraid To Live” (Blacklizt Version)
Techno heavyweights HI-LO and ZHU team up for a hypnotic, underground anthem, setting the stage for ADE 2024’s most anticipated performance.

HI-LO and ZHU have joined forces for their latest release, "Afraid To Live" (Blacklizt Version). Available now via HI-LO’s label HILOMATIK, this track is already making waves, backed by heavyweights like Adam Beyer, AFROJACK, and Joseph Capriati. Their hypnotic collaboration masterfully taps into the dark energy of techno, echoing through dimly lit clubs and capturing the raw after-hours essence.
"Afraid To Live" pulses with underground energy, a deep sonic journey that asks listeners to shed their inhibitions and dive into the gritty, unapologetic realm of techno. With its signature driving basslines and atmospheric builds, it reflects the perfect marriage of HI-LO's innovative touch and ZHU’s haunting melodies. This isn't just another track; it's a visceral experience designed for those who thrive in the shadows.
As one of the standout tracks for the upcoming Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE), fans can expect to hear it live when HI-LO takes the stage at Dockyard Festival on October 19th. It’s anticipated to be one of the most talked-about moments of ADE, a festival known for celebrating the boundary-pushing sounds of electronic music.
HI-LO, the techno alias of Oliver Heldens, has made a remarkable name for himself in the underground scene. With a growing list of accolades, including top rankings on platforms like 1001tracklists.com and collaborations with leading figures like Reinier Zonneveld and Adam Beyer, HI-LO continues to reshape the sound of techno with his unique blend of big-room sensibilities and raw, underground energy.
Meanwhile, GRAMMY-nominated ZHU brings his signature sleek, sexy, and sinister style to the collaboration. Known for his genre-defying sound and his multifaceted artistry—ranging from production to live performance and film—ZHU’s contribution to "Afraid To Live" adds a layer of intensity that enhances its immersive, almost cinematic feel. The track arrives just as ZHU releases his ambitious album and film project GRACE, further showcasing his artistic versatility.
"Afraid To Live" (Blacklizt Version) is out now on all major streaming platforms, and techno enthusiasts can catch HI-LO and ZHU on tour in the coming months. For a track that doesn’t hold back and offers an invitation to lose yourself on the dance floor, Afraid To Live dares you to ask: Are you truly afraid to live?