Rising hip-hop powerhouse Costa Cashman returns with a new single that flips the narrative of what it truly means to be a gangsta.
His new track, “Gangsta,” featuring Fern and produced by dot.jaime, celebrates transformation, discipline, and success earned through grind and growth.
On “Gangsta,” Costa Cashman continues to expand his distinct Cheke sound, a sonic signature that fuses grit with cinematic ambition. The track builds on the success of his previous hit “HUSS,” marking a refreshing pivot in Cashman’s storytelling: one that reflects his past struggles while embracing the victories of his present.
Gangsta, redefined
“Para sakin kasi, hindi na ‘gangsta’ yung pagiging agresibo o pagiging mapusok,” Cashman shares. “Para sa akin, ang ‘gangsta’ na is yung nakakapag-provide ka, nagagawa mo yung gusto mo, nag-eenjoy ka at nagagawa mo yun ng sarili mo lang. Nagawa mo siya ng pinaghirapan mo. Ayun na yung ‘gangsta’ para sakin.”
Co-produced by dot.jaime, “Gangsta” delivers a hard-hitting yet expansive soundscape, anchored by a bass-heavy beat that mirrors Cashman’s confidence and creative clarity. Recording during a writing session in Bali with Fern, the track came together organically, combining effortless lyricism with raw, tender honesty.
“Natural lang siyang lumabas sa akin,” Cashman recalls. “Lumabas siya sa utak ko, tapos sinulat ko na siya. Sobrang saya ko kasi parang yun yung pinaka-legit na nasulat ko. I mean, legit naman lahat ng sinusulat ko, pero ayun ung mas dama ko at mas personal siya.
Lyrically, “Gangsta” serves as both reflection and declaration. Cashman contrasts the grind of his early days, recording music in cramped spaces and dodging daily hardships. Thinking about it, the acclaimed newcomer takes pride in the fulfillment of having built something real and meaningful from nothing.
From the streets to the spotlight, “Gangsta” serves as an anthem for those still in the grind, reminding them that success doesn’t erase struggle; it redefines it. From TV features to magazine covers, Costa Cashman stands as a symbol of authenticity and ambition, embodying what it means to glow up while staying grounded.
UND x Costa Cashman
In tandem with the single release, Costa Cashman will debut a limited-edition capsule collection in collaboration with UNDRAFTED (UND)—a partnership aligning with the UND Anniversary celebration. The capsule embodies the same spirit of “Gangsta”: success born from hustle, crafted with intention and authenticity.
The UND x Costa Cashman capsule will drop around the same time as the single’s release, and will be available in limited stock. “This collaboration represents not just a fashion statement but a manifestation of Cashman’s evolution, from the streets of Malate to the forefront of Philippine hip-hop culture,” Justin Wieneke, CEO of Cheke, explains.
