The Duchess and DYSON Deliver Emotional Gut-Punch with “Drunk on U”
Love, Loss, and a Drum & Bass Anthem
In a world of fleeting singles and viral drops, few tracks arrive with a backstory as raw and resonant as “Drunk on U” — the new release from Los Angeles-based producer The Duchess and UK hitmaker DYSON. Out now on Monstercat, the hypnotic drum & bass track delivers more than just heady rhythms and sultry vocals; it’s a transatlantic tale of survival, serendipity, and artistic rebirth that’s been five years in the making.
Behind the haunting melodies of “Drunk on U” lies a story marked by both devastation and destiny. Originally titled “Feelings,” the track began as a remote collaboration in 2019, long before a wildfire tore through The Duchess’ Los Angeles home — nearly reducing the song to ashes along with everything else she owned. But in a twist of fate, the demo survived.
“Losing everything in the Palisades fires stripped my world down to nothing but ashes and memories,” The Duchess (Kendra Videckis) shares. “But somehow, in that emptiness, I found the purest form of freedom—the kind that only comes when you have nothing left to hold onto but your voice.”
It’s that voice — both literal and metaphorical — that guides “Drunk on U.” The track builds like a slow intoxication, blending Kendra’s signature production with DYSON’s unmistakable vocal presence. Clocking in at just over two minutes, the song is brief but intense, like a flash of lightning that leaves an emotional afterimage.
While the emotional gravity of “Drunk on U” is rooted in personal tragedy, it’s also a testament to the power of collaboration — even across oceans. DYSON (Lauren Dyson), whose songwriting credits span over 200 tracks and more than 1.5 billion streams, brings her own brand of allure to the mix.
“This song is about that feeling of being so intoxicated on someone,” DYSON explains. “You’re obsessed and can’t get them out of your head. It’s that fun and sexy feeling of meeting someone new and all of its possibilities.”
Ironically, the two artists didn’t meet in person until the final version of the song was complete — a poetic conclusion to a years-long creative partnership conducted entirely online.
For The Duchess, “Drunk on U” is more than a single — it’s a milestone. Known for her emotionally charged productions and distinct sonic fingerprint, she’s steadily built a name in the electronic scene, opening for artists like Zomboy and WHIPPED CREAM, and releasing fan favorites like “Be Here (La La La)” and “Fkdmeupinside.” But this latest release signals a turning point — a softer, yet equally impactful side of her artistry.
While The Duchess brings the underground heat, DYSON brings a global sheen. With hits for K-pop royalty like BTS, ITZY, and TWICE, and credits on projects from Netflix’s Carole and Tuesday to Mattel’s Barbie franchise, she’s a behind-the-scenes force who's now stepping firmly into the spotlight.
Together, the two artists form a powerful duo — one driven by shared emotion, hard-won experience, and a desire to create something timeless.
“Drunk on U” may have been nearly lost to the flames, but it emerges from the wreckage not only intact — but transformed. It’s a reminder that even the most fragile beginnings can grow into something resilient. Something lasting.
And maybe, that’s the real story behind this track: not just love or longing, but the quiet strength it takes to start over.
“Even after losing everything,” says The Duchess, “something beautiful can still rise from the smoke.”
