B-Side Guys

In a remote cabin, amidst self-reflection and heartbreak, TEHYA found an unlikely muse in a dirt-loving dog named Gucci. The result is “dust dog,” a standout track from her debut EP “sorry for the wait” that transforms canine loyalty into a penetrating meditation on relationship dynamics.

The Filipino-Native American artist’s multi-instrumental talents shine through the track’s layered production, where her self-taught abilities on guitar, keys, and drums merge with co-production from The Imports, Aire Atlantica, and Cameron Hale. This collaborative approach creates a soundscape that honors her diverse musical background—from her father’s funk drumming legacy to her formative years in Seattle’s underground rap scene.

What makes “dust dog” particularly compelling is TEHYA’s ability to craft an extended metaphor that never feels forced. The image of Gucci waiting patiently in the dirt becomes a poignant reflection of her own experience in a deteriorating relationship. The production choices enhance this narrative journey, with subtle percussive elements that echo the restless waiting described in the story.

At 24, TEHYA brings remarkable maturity to her songwriting. After spending “a complete 365 days alone” teaching herself recording techniques, her dedication to craft is evident in every carefully placed note. The track’s R&B foundation gets stretched and molded through indie pop sensibilities, creating a sound that fits comfortably within Neon Gold Records’ impressive roster of genre-bending artists like Charli XCX and MARINA.

“dust dog” stands as a creative milestone from an artist whose multicultural heritage (Cherokee, Filipino, and Scotch-Irish) and DIY ethos have shaped a truly distinct voice. The visualizer accompanying the track further reinforces the emotional narrative, visually translating the feelings of abandonment and patient devotion that animate this quietly devastating song.

As TEHYA emerges from her self-imposed creative isolation, “dust dog” serves as proof that sometimes, waiting—whether for inspiration, technical mastery, or healing—yields the most authentic artistic expression.