Shub (formerly DJ Shub) makes a powerful comeback with his latest single ‘Victorious’ featuring the mesmerising vocals of Tia Wood. This electrifying track marks the first glimpse into his upcoming two-part album, ‘Heritage’.
‘Victorious’ stands as one of Shub’s most ambitious works to date – a product of the undeniable creative chemistry between him and Tia Wood that brings raw energy through a rich and multi-faceted, genre-defying soundscape. Tia’s soaring, soulful vocals weave through an intricate mix of traditional Indigenous elements, warming synths and ambient house influences, culminating in a thrilling drum & bass explosion as the vocals dance with a freedom.
Lyrically, ‘Victorious’ is an intimate reflection on clarity, self-discovery, and the emotional process of letting go: “This one’s personal,” Shub explains. “It’s about seeing things clearly for the first time—realizing what’s real, what’s not, and sitting with that. There’s a lot of emotion in it, and I think people will connect with that feeling of reflection and letting go.”
The song’s themes come to life in the accompanying music video, a striking visual journey directed by Kit Weyman. Speaking on the video’s intent, Weyman shares, “With this video, we set out to build bridges between cultures—and I think that this video has done that in an elevated, yet grounded, magical realism feel.” Shub is portrayed as “the Drum”, representing the heartbeat and fire that gathers people, while Tia’s journey “from the Plains to downtown Toronto” symbolises the emotional essence of the song. Dancers embodying different energies and spirits further enhance the narrative, brought to life through fiery, expressive choreography.
Cinematographer Daniyal Shah and editor Bryan Reuben help bring Weyman’s vision to life, reinforcing the themes of clarity, cultural unity, and personal liberation. “Through these two powerful and distinct artists, this track bridges communities and nations with a unifying message and the universal call to the drum,” Weyman adds. “Through all of their collective resilience, they emerge Victorious.”
Drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of influences—including turntablists like Qbert and Mix Master Mike, hip-hop producers J Dilla and DJ Premier, and traditional powwow groups like Northern Cree and Black Lodge Singers—Shub continues to redefine what powwow step can be. His innovative fusion of EDM, trap, dubstep, and dancehall, all rooted in Indigenous culture, cements his place as a pioneer of the genre.
Listen below:
