After stepping away for a spell, Major Lazer reemerges, unveiling an invigorated lineup and a striking new single.
The iconic collective now welcomes British-Jamaican vocalist America Foster alongside founding member Diplo, percussionist Ape Drums and MC Walshy Fire. This marks the quartet’s fourth incarnation since the group’s inception in 2008. Originally comprised of Diplo and Switch, the duo parted ways in 2011. Diplo later joined forces with Walshy Fire and Jillionaire, until Jillionaire’s departure in 2019 paved the way for Ape Drums.
Foster’s inclusion not only expands the ensemble to four but also introduces the group’s first female presence. Her collaboration with Diplo during a creative session in Jamaica laid the groundwork for this partnership.
Amplifying the momentum, Major Lazer drops “Gangsta” today, August 27, 2025, via Mad Decent. The track channels the group’s early dancehall roots, featuring the powerful voice of Jamaican artist Busy Signal, who lent his talents to the 2013 smash “Watch Out For This (Bumaye).” Complementing the blend is Kybba, the Italian-born, Amsterdam-based basshall producer. While Foster’s vocals do not appear on this single, Diplo teases fans to anticipate her contributions on forthcoming recordings.
“Collaborating with America and revisiting the synergy with Busy Signal feels like embarking on a fresh journey while honoring our origins,” Diplo shares. “Busy Signal was instrumental in shaping Major Lazer’s sound with his dynamic performance on ‘Bumaye.’ Now, over a decade later, America’s presence adds a compelling new layer alongside Walshy and Ape Drums.”
“Gangsta” represents Major Lazer’s first original output since 2024’s “Sofia” with Alok and Fuerza Regida, followed by “Jiggy Woogie” featuring Don Diablo and Baby Lawd.
In a recent Billboard interview, Diplo revealed that BLACKPINK’s comeback single “Jump” was initially penned for Major Lazer, underscoring the project as a vessel for his boldest musical visions. “If my wildest creations don’t find a home elsewhere, they’ll find their place on a Major Lazer album,” he explains.
