Underscores – “Tell Me (U Want It)” & 2026 Rise | Stereogum

The hyperpop artist underscores has released her first single of 2026, “Tell Me (U Want It),” following a successful 2025 marked by collaborations with prominent artists like Oklou, Yaeji, and Danny Brown. The track, accompanied by a visually engaging music video, signals a continued ascent for the rising musician.

underscores, whose genre-bending sound has garnered increasing attention, collaborated with Oklou on the track “harvest sky” in 2025, as noted by discussions on platforms like Reddit. Online forums demonstrate growing interest in her work, particularly following her collaborations with established artists. Her work with Yaeji appeared on the album *booboo2*, and she featured on Danny Brown’s single “Copycats.”

A Collaborative Spirit and Rising Profile

underscores’ 2025 was defined by a willingness to experiment and collaborate. Her work with Danny Brown on “Copycats,” released via Warp Records in October 2025, showcased her versatility and ability to blend her signature hyperpop style with different sonic landscapes. The official music video for “Copycats” provides a visual companion to the track, further solidifying the partnership. These collaborations have demonstrably broadened her reach and introduced her music to modern audiences.

The new single, “Tell Me (U Want It),” continues this trend of innovative soundscapes. The music video, starring April Grey, features cameos from fellow musicians Jane Remover and Fraxiom, highlighting the interconnectedness of the contemporary music scene. Jane Remover released new music in January 2026, and Fraxiom shared their album, The Adventures Of Jester Jackalope, in the weeks leading up to the single’s release. This collaborative spirit is a hallmark of underscores’ approach to music-making.

“Tell Me (U Want It)” – A Zippy Anthem

Described as a “zippy anthem,” “Tell Me (U Want It)” offers a glimpse into underscores’ evolving sound. The song’s release marks a significant moment for the artist, representing her first new music of 2026. The music video, starring April Grey, is described as “highly entertaining,” suggesting a strong visual component to the single’s appeal. The inclusion of cameos from Jane Remover and Fraxiom further underscores the collaborative nature of the project.

The Hyperpop Landscape and Underscores’ Place Within It

Hyperpop, as a genre, has experienced significant growth in recent years, characterized by its maximalist production, distorted sounds, and often emotionally charged lyrics. Artists like 100 gecs and Charli XCX have been instrumental in popularizing the genre, paving the way for emerging artists like underscores to find their audience. The genre’s appeal lies in its willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventional musical norms.

underscores’ music fits comfortably within the hyperpop aesthetic, but similarly demonstrates a unique artistic vision. Her collaborations with artists from diverse musical backgrounds suggest a desire to transcend genre limitations and create something truly original. This willingness to experiment and collaborate is likely to be a key factor in her continued success.

The Influence of Collaborators

The artists underscores has collaborated with – Oklou, Yaeji, and Danny Brown – each bring distinct styles to the table. Oklou is known for her atmospheric and emotionally resonant electronic music, even as Yaeji blends house, techno, and Korean lyrics. Danny Brown, a veteran rapper, is celebrated for his unique flow and often unconventional subject matter. These collaborations demonstrate underscores’ ability to seamlessly integrate her sound with a variety of different artistic approaches.

The influence of these collaborations is evident in underscores’ evolving sound. Her music retains its hyperpop core, but also incorporates elements of electronic, hip-hop, and other genres. This fusion of styles creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Looking Ahead

With the release of “Tell Me (U Want It),” underscores is poised for continued growth in 2026. Her collaborative spirit, innovative sound, and visually compelling music videos have established her as a rising force in the hyperpop scene. The artist’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries suggests a promising future for her music.

The music industry will be watching closely to see how underscores continues to evolve and shape the sound of hyperpop. Her upcoming projects and collaborations are likely to generate significant buzz and further solidify her position as a leading artist in the genre. Fans can expect more innovative music and visually stunning content from underscores in the months to approach.

The next step for underscores will be to build on the momentum generated by “Tell Me (U Want It)” and continue to expand her fanbase. Further collaborations and live performances are likely to be key components of her strategy. The artist’s ability to connect with audiences on both a musical and visual level will be crucial to her long-term success.

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