Philadelphia rapper Lil Hawa has released her latest single, “Malfunction,” a track characterized by its woozy and emotionally charged sound. This new offering follows a busy 2025, during which she released two well-received EPs and toured as an opener for Skrilla.
“Malfunction” explores the complexities of sudden fame and the challenges of managing it, while also touching on the intense longing for someone whose feelings aren’t quite mutual. The song’s raw sentiment is complemented by its lo-fi music video, directed by 1mirs.
Lil Hawa initially caught wider attention in 2024, notably when Lil Uzi Vert mentioned her in his track “Lyft Em Up” from Eternal Atake 2, with the lyric: “You would think Lil Hawa my lil cousin way I got all this Lululemon.”
Her musical output in 2025 demonstrated a clear evolution. Her winter EP, 1ST LADY TREY, largely showcased a Philly drill style reminiscent of artists like Skrilla and Hood Tali. However, her fall release, For My 3’s, incorporated more melodic and playful elements into her repertoire. Songs such as “HIGH” and her collaboration with Happy Dranker on “YDKBTS” signaled a departure from her hometown’s signature sound, suggesting a broader artistic scope.
This emerging, more ambient sound, which began to crystallize with “YDKBTS,” was further refined in her Christmas single, “WHO I AM,” marking a consistent progression in her musical style.
