Dallas-based R&B sensation 4batz delivered a standout performance at his inaugural Coachella appearance, leaving an indelible mark on the festival landscape. Performing on the Gobi stage from 4:45 to 5:25 PM on Friday, the 20-year-old artist transformed the desert venue into an intimate R&B sanctuary.
His showstopper was his popular track with Drake, “act ii: date @ 8,” with passionate people singing every lyric, emphasizing the song’s popularity and 4batz’s rising status.
4batz, whose real name is Neko Bennett, is one of the most recognizable voices in modern R&B. Born in Dallas, Texas, the up-and-coming artist developed a signature sound defined by ethereal, pitch-shifted melodic vocals over lo-fi production and heartfelt lyrics about romantic love.
His first single, “act i: stickerz ’99,” became viral in June 2023, revealing his emotional range and unique singing style. It catapulted him to prominence, leading to him becoming Billboard’s March 2024 R&B/Hip-Hop Rookie of the Month.
4batz’s rapid ascent caught the attention of industry heavyweights, leading to a high-profile collaboration with Drake on “act ii: date @ 8.” The track, released in 2024, blends romantic devotion and material generosity narratives—lyrics about buying gifts for a romantic interest resonate deeply with listeners.
While some fans have expressed mixed feelings about Drake’s involvement, suggesting it overshadows 4batz’s artistry, the song’s popularity is undeniable, cementing his status as a rising star.
What sets 4batz apart is the striking juxtaposition between his visual aesthetic and his music. His signature look—featuring a black balaclava, Nike hoodie, and gold Grillz—suggests a trap influence. Yet, his sound is tender and emotionally resonant, drawing inspiration from classic R&B artists like Jodeci, Sade, and Anita Baker.
This contrast was displayed at Coachella, where his delicate vocals enveloped the audience, creating a memorable experience that defied expectations. While his appearance might evoke comparisons to trap artists, his music reveals a vulnerability that has captivated fans and critics alike.
The set’s highlight was “Act ii: Date @ 8.” The audience’s word-for-word singing along demonstrated the song’s penetration of popular culture and 4batz’s expanding base of fans.
One Reddit user who heard him play in Los Angeles before Coachella called his performance “pretty nice,” an opinion shared by the Coachella audience.
4batz’s Coachella debut is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating that he can move past his popularity on the internet to put on an engaging show. His transition from Internet phenomenon to fest standout in just a matter of months is all evidence of his original talent and the accelerated career paths now available to artists in an era of streaming.
