“On ‘King Yoga,’ BAD WITH PHONES proves that real balance isn’t found on a screen—it’s found in the quiet moments when you finally reconnect with yourself.”
BAD WITH PHONES returns with “King Yoga,” the first single from his forthcoming EP, and it immediately sets the tone for an artist who has never been interested in following the crowd. Thoughtful, reflective, and full of personality, the track blends introspective songwriting with a relaxed groove that feels both personal and inviting.
Known offstage as Manny T Deroy, the South London artist has built his identity around questioning modern habits, particularly our dependence on technology. His decision to stop carrying a phone for six months was more than a publicity stunt—it was a genuine attempt to understand what life feels like without constant notifications and endless scrolling. That philosophy naturally feeds into “King Yoga,” a song that looks inward instead of outward. Rather than criticising modern life, the single offers an alternative. Yoga becomes a symbol for slowing down, finding balance, and creating space for genuine self-reflection. Manny explains that the practice helps calm his nervous system, keeps him grounded, and allows him to remain flexible when life becomes difficult. Those ideas flow through the lyrics, giving the song a sense of peace without losing its forward momentum. “King Yoga” carries an easy confidence. The production leaves room for the message to breathe, blending rhythmic grooves with melodic textures that create an atmosphere of calm determination. There is an effortless quality to the performance that mirrors the song’s central idea—that growth doesn’t always have to come through struggle. Sometimes it begins by learning to be present.
The single also explores the meaning of success from a different perspective. Instead of chasing status or recognition, Manny focuses on achieving a state where he can bring peace, happiness, and comfort to both himself and those around him. It is an uplifting message that feels especially relevant in a culture often driven by comparison and constant digital distraction. As the first glimpse of his upcoming EP, “King Yoga” suggests that BAD WITH PHONES is continuing to develop his unique artistic voice. His music remains rooted in curiosity, self-awareness, and honest observation rather than trends or easy formulas. With a headline show already planned at London’s Victoria Dalston this October, Manny is entering an exciting new chapter. If “King Yoga” is any indication, listeners can expect a project that values mindfulness as much as melody. It is a refreshing reminder that some of life’s biggest victories happen quietly, away from the noise, when we finally make time to reconnect with ourselves.
English