Zacari Pacaldo, better known as simply Zacari, is a rising star in the music industry. The 26-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer has been making waves with his unique sound and heartfelt lyrics. But it was his collaboration with Kendrick Lamar on the hit album ‘Damn.’ that truly put him on the map.
Growing up in Bakersfield, California, Zacari was surrounded by music from a young age. His father was a musician and his mother was a singer, so it was only natural for him to follow in their footsteps. He started playing the piano at the age of five and by the time he was a teenager, he was already writing and producing his own music.
But it wasn’t until he caught the attention of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) that his career really took off. Zacari was signed to the label in 2016 and soon after, he was featured on Kendrick Lamar’s song “Love.” The track became a huge success and earned Zacari his first Grammy nomination.
Working with Kendrick and the rest of the TDE family has been a major influence on Zacari’s music. He credits them for teaching him the importance of storytelling and putting his heart on his sleeve. “They really taught me to be vulnerable and to not be afraid to share my emotions through my music,” he says.
Now, Zacari is ready to step into the spotlight with his debut album, ‘Run Wild Run Free.’ The project, which was released on March 26, showcases his growth as an artist and his ability to blend different genres seamlessly. “I wanted to create something that was true to me and my experiences, but also something that people could relate to and vibe with,” he explains.
The album features collaborations with fellow TDE artists like Isaiah Rashad and Ab-Soul, as well as rising stars like Lil Yachty and 6LACK. But it’s Zacari’s soulful vocals and introspective lyrics that truly shine on the record. Tracks like “Edamame” and “Ten Outta Ten” showcase his range as a singer, while songs like “This Woman’s Work” and “Don’t Trip” delve into deeper emotional themes.
With ‘Run Wild Run Free,’ Zacari is ready to make his mark as a solo artist. He hopes that his music will not only entertain, but also inspire listeners to be true to themselves and embrace their emotions. “I want people to feel something when they listen to my music,” he says. “I want them to know that it’s okay to be vulnerable and to express themselves.”
As he continues to make his mark on the music industry, Zacari remains grateful for the opportunities he’s been given and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He hopes to continue collaborating with his TDE family and other talented artists, while also carving out his own unique path in the industry.
With his talent, passion, and dedication, there’s no doubt that Zacari’s moment is just beginning. And we can’t wait to see where his music takes him next.