When Minnesota-based metalcore outfit Empty My Lungs said they were coming to “light it up,” they meant it — literally and sonically. Their latest release, Light It Up, is a thunderstorm of raw emotion, blistering guitar riffs, and unapologetic vocal firepower that blends rock, rap, and nu-metal into one high-voltage experience.
The record recently landed on the radar of This Is Hip Hop HQ through music promotion platform Groover, where artists connect directly with tastemakers and media outlets. Upon first listen, it’s clear this track doesn’t tiptoe around genre boundaries — it bulldozes through them with confidence.
A Controlled Explosion of Emotion and Sound
From the jump, Light It Up surges with power — an eruption of tight drums, distorted guitar runs, and vocals that feel ripped straight from the chest. The frontman’s delivery dances between melodic vulnerability and rage-fueled release, a contrast that grips the listener’s pulse from start to finish.
“This is a great track — powerful, passionate, and full of personality,” wrote Mr. Benjamins of This Is Hip Hop HQ in his official Groover feedback. “Your cadence carries that ‘in-your-face’ confidence and charisma that instantly commands attention. It actually reminds me of the intensity and storytelling style of Yelawolf and Hopsin — artists who master the art of emotional delivery with attitude and control.”
That’s not light praise — those are names known for balancing aggression with lyrical depth, and Empty My Lungs pulls off that same duality. Their verses hit with controlled fury, while the hook offers a melodic anchor — the kind that sticks long after the song fades.
The Spirit of Minnesota Metalcore, Reinvented
Hailing from Minnesota, a region known for its underground metal scene and cold-blooded grit, Empty My Lungs brings a fresh twist to the genre. They’re not just screaming for the sake of sound — there’s narrative and structure behind every note.
The song’s verse-chorus architecture feels deceptively simple, yet every section lands with purpose. It’s that rare balance — structured enough to replay endlessly, wild enough to never feel tame.
The production quality is clean without sanding off the edges — a nod to their DIY ethos that still punches above indie expectations. Each snare hit feels alive; each growl feels earned.
Lighting Up Groover — and Beyond
Since its submission through Groover, Light It Up has been catching attention for its crossover potential. While rooted in metalcore, its rhythmic precision and vocal flow open doors to rock-rap and nu-metal audiences, bridging the worlds of Linkin Park, Papa Roach, and Tech N9ne with ease.
The band’s collaboration with platforms like This Is Hip Hop HQ is a testament to how independent acts can now expand globally — one authentic submission at a time. Groover allows artists to send their music directly to industry curators, including media outlets, playlist editors, and event organizers. That’s how Empty My Lungs’ fire reached the desk of Mr. Benjamins, who has since pledged to share the track across This Is Hip Hop HQ’s network — including social media posts, editorial reviews, and live event considerations.
The Verdict
Empty My Lungs’ Light It Up isn’t just a song — it’s a declaration of artistic defiance. It shows that metalcore still has new territory to explore, especially when it welcomes hip-hop’s rhythmic swagger and emotional honesty.
“This is a solid 10/10 for me,” wrote Mr. Benjamins in his closing remarks. “Authentic, engaging, and built with intention. Keep refining your craft — you’re clearly onto something special.”
And that’s the thing — in an age where many bands chase algorithms instead of authenticity, Empty My Lungs chooses to burn their own trail.
Listen and Follow
🎧 Stream the album Light It Up on Spotify
📲 Follow Empty My Lungs on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and TikTok
🌐 Follow This Is Hip Hop HQ on Facebook for exclusive indie artist discoveries and real hip-hop storytelling.
Artists can submit their music for professional review via Groover to connect directly with curators and platforms like ours.
Because at the end of the day, real music doesn’t ask for permission — it lights up everything in its path.
