Intense
Intense has quietly become one of the most influential producers in Punjabi music. Known for his ability to craft sleek, atmospheric beats that fuse seamlessly with Punjabi melodies, he’s the creative force behind some of the biggest hits of AP Dhillon, Gurinder Gill, and Shinda Kahlon. From Excuses to Insane, Intense has helped define the sound of the global Punjabi wave.
Early Life & Background
Intense (full name not widely publicized) hails from Canada, where he grew up surrounded by a mix of Western hip-hop and Punjabi cultural influence. Like many producers of his generation, he started experimenting with digital audio production as a teenager, uploading early remixes and instrumentals online.
His big break came when he connected with artists like AP Dhillon and Gurinder Gill, forming part of the Run-Up Records collective that would go on to revolutionize Punjabi hip-hop’s reach.
Breakthrough with AP Dhillon
Intense’s reputation exploded thanks to his collaborations with AP Dhillon. Together, they produced anthems that not only dominated Punjabi playlists but also charted internationally.
Key tracks include:
- Excuses (2021) – A viral mega-hit that crossed hundreds of millions of views on YouTube and Spotify.
- Insane (2021) – Another global anthem, blending trap beats with Punjabi vocals.
- Ma Belle (2021) – A smoother, R&B-infused track that showcased his versatility.
These singles helped push Punjabi trap-pop into the mainstream, making Intense a household name among diaspora audiences.
Signature Sound & Style
Intense’s production style is marked by:
- Minimalist beats – clean, layered sounds with atmospheric depth.
- Trap & R&B influence – often leaning into moody soundscapes.
- Global polish – tracks that fit seamlessly on Western playlists while staying Punjabi at heart.
- Collaborative synergy – he builds beats that highlight each artist’s strengths rather than overpower them.
This unique blend has made him one of the defining producers of the Punjabi global wave.
Collaborations & Discography
Beyond AP Dhillon, Intense has worked closely with:
- Gurinder Gill (Majhail, Brown Munde collaborations)
- Shinda Kahlon (Fate, Foreigns)
- Other diaspora rappers and singers, expanding Punjabi hip-hop’s international footprint.
His ability to balance commercial hits with experimental sounds has kept him in constant demand.
Global Impact
Intense’s music has dominated streaming platforms, with songs like Excuses and Insane featured on Spotify’s Global Viral charts and Apple Music’s top playlists. His production style helped AP Dhillon and the Run-Up team sell out shows in Canada, the US, the UK, and India, proving that Punjabi trap could move arenas.
Recent Work & Updates
- In 2023–2024, Intense continued releasing singles with AP Dhillon and Shinda Kahlon.
- He teased upcoming collaborations with non-Punjabi artists, hinting at further crossover ambitions.
- Fans speculate he may soon release a producer-driven project, curating tracks under his own name.
Why Intense Matters
Producers often work behind the curtain, but Intense’s fingerprints are everywhere in Punjabi hip-hop’s rise. His beats don’t just back vocals—they elevate them, shaping the sonic identity of an entire movement. For fans of AP Dhillon’s global takeover, Intense is the hidden architect.
Listen to My Music
