In the ever-evolving world of Hip Hop, staying power is rare—but Darren Piper, better known by his stage name Optikz, proves that persistence, passion, and purpose are the ultimate ingredients for longevity. With a career spanning over 26 years, this Australian-Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter is finally ready to unveil his highly anticipated debut studio project, “The Optikz EP.”
Recorded at the iconic Metalworks Studios—Canada’s most celebrated studio, honored 17 years in a row by the Canadian Music Week Awards—”The Optikz EP” has been in the making since 2019. For Optikz, this project isn’t just a musical release; it’s a declaration of everything he’s fought for. From early beginnings in 1999 to staying independent through the industry’s highs and lows, he’s maintained an unshakable focus on refining his craft and evolving as an artist.
His upcoming single “Champion,” dropping May 7, is a testament to that journey. The teaser already has fans talking, blending raw energy with heartfelt lyricism. The track is an anthem for anyone who’s had to overcome adversity, with Optikz using his signature blend of melodic hooks and hard-hitting verses to uplift and inspire. You can catch the teaser here: Watch “Champion” Teaser.
But Optikz isn’t stopping there.
Another major single in the works is “Overnight Success”—a powerful track that is being mixed by Grammy-nominated engineer Blake Eiseman, whose resume includes legends like Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Aretha Franklin, Pink, Justin Bieber, and Whitney Houston. Collaborating with Eiseman marks a huge milestone in Optikz journey and signals his transition from underground stalwart to mainstream contender.
With influences rooted in classic rap storytelling and modern production finesse, Optikz brings a duality to his music that resonates across continents. His lyrics often explore themes of self-belief, perseverance, and triumph, echoing the challenges and victories of a life lived through music.
His online presence is growing steadily, with followers tuning into his journey via X, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more. From social clips to studio snippets, Optikz continues to build a loyal fanbase hungry for authenticity and soul-stirring sounds.
With “The Optikz EP” on the horizon and singles like “Champion” and “Overnight Success” heating up the streets, 2025 is shaping up to be a breakthrough year for this seasoned artist. More than two decades in, Optikz is living proof that dreams don’t have expiration dates—they just require faith, fire, and the willingness to fight for your moment.
Follow Optikz and stream his music here: https://linktr.ee/optikzofficial