To better connect you with the talent behind the music, we're proudly spotlighting artists, composers, and producers on the Megatrax roster and their work. It is a treat to hear indie artist Oparu discuss the inspiration behind tracks written for Play Your Cards Right, an album that explores themes of empowerment, identity, and the battles we fight both within ourselves and in our relationships that can be used seamlessly in advertising, film, and television.

Hi Oparu! Tell us about how this project was conceived.

When I create, I always begin with emotion. Each track on Play Your Cards Right started as a feeling that surfaced from the deepest parts of my soul. Memories, scars, and truths that I couldn’t ignore. I let those emotions guide me into melodies and words, shaping lyrics that carried the weight of my past but also the hope and strength I’ve fought to uncover. My process is less about structure and more about surrender, letting the music pull out what’s buried inside and turning it into something tangible.

Play Your Cards Right is a journey through the many layers of the human experience, exploring themes of empowerment, identity, and the battles we fight both within ourselves and in our relationships. The album celebrates the power of women when we come together, the courage it takes to know who we are, and the painful lessons learned when love and trust are betrayed by a narcissist’s illusion. It also reflects on self-discovery through the lens of the zodiac, the darkness we quietly battle in our own minds just to keep moving forward, and even the shadowy metaphor of a serial killer hiding from the truth of their own emotions. Each track is a card in the deck of life, revealing strength, vulnerability, and the resilience it takes to play them with intention.

Working alongside producer Ian Dwyer, the music was carefully built into a cinematic soundscape that balances dark pop intensity with moments of light and vulnerability. Each track was mixed by Derek Jones and mastered by the legendary Robert Vosgien, to capture the depth of emotion I poured into it.

What's next for you?

The album has been submitted for this year's GRAMMY® Ballot for Best Alternative Music Album. Thank you for your consideration! https://oparumusic.com/fyc/

Listen to Play Your Cards Right.

Opāru has been featured in top publications such as Earmilk, Huffington Post, Shout Out LA, Hypefresh, and New Lease Music, among many others. Her music has also reached wide audiences through placements on major television shows and broadcasts, including Home & Away, MotoAmerica, CBS News, The Olympics, and numerous other programs. These features and syncs showcase both her artistic credibility and the broad appeal of her sound.

For licensing, please contact your account representative or email info@megatrax.com for more information.