Review: "Access Denied" - ZADA
- Kyler Griggs
- Aug 1
- 3 min read
In a world where drama and negativity runs rampant and can quickly overwhelm you, it is important to protect your peace as much as possible. ZADA’s latest single, “Access Denied,” is the perfect song all about finding peace in your life regardless of what negativity may be forming around you. ZADA’s lyrics in “Access Denied” encourages listeners not to focus on drama, but focus on yourself and your own self-improvement. The title, “Access Denied,” perfectly encapsulates the overall feeling of the song. Be it a break up, argument, or any other conflict, the song shows the hidden power of leaning away from the drama that can stem from such conflicts. By prioritizing your inner peace and denying any external negativity access to your life, you portray levels of maturity and grace that also helps to shut off the possibility of internal negativity that would fester inside and wholly consume you. With lyrics like “Not my fault you're hypnotized / You can’t take me out tonight / Stop wasting my time” and “Up to me cause I decide / Access Denied,” ZADA shows the importance of putting your peace first and making decisions that are ultimately best for you.
“Access Denied” can best be described as an empowering anthem for self-confidence. The song leans heavily into the R&B genre, but is also balanced with a hint of an alternative sound. Both of these separate notes blend together into one, and creates a very unique sound that makes “Access Denied” such an incredible listening experience. ZADA’s smooth-as-silk voice adds so much to the song’s overall sound, as well as the song’s deeper meaning. While singing lyrics that are vulnerable, her tone of voice has this very natural, soft confidence that makes it feel as if she has found a balance or peace within herself. With her calming voice, it seems like ZADA shares this peaceful energy that she has gained with anyone who listens and relates to the emotions conveyed through “Access Denied.” There are moments in the song, like the chorus, that has more of an upbeat, cathartic vibe which resembles the freeing feeling of self-discovery and walking away from negative situations with your head held high, even if it's not always easy. “Access Denied” is the perfect song for any self-care playlist with lyrics that feel like affirmations everyone could sing out loud as a daily reminder not to engage in drama or negativity, and not allow it to change who you are at your core—which is powerful and at peace.
Ethiopian-born and Canada-based singer, ZADA was raised in the mountains of Whistler, British Columbia. In a world where everything is increasingly virtual, ZADA is tethered to nature. ZADA’s notable musical voice is a blend of neo-soul and R&B, with generous doses of afrobeats and folk. Her music also contains organic grooves and breezy melodies. Her latest single, “Access Denied,” was released on July 24th, 2025. This song follows her previous single, “Breath Away,” which was released on June 12th, 2025. Another one of her previous musical projects is the album, “Water In The Desert,” which was released in 2024. The album features 8 songs, all of which showcase ZADA’s uniquely curated sound that makes her such an unforgettable artist. Follow her to stay up to date with her future music releases!
Written By Kyler Griggs
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