Lazerhawk: The Retro-Futurist Visionary of Synthwave

Lazerhawk is the pioneering electronic music project of American producer and composer Garrett Hays, a foundational architect of the modern synthwave genre. Hailing from Austin, Texas, the artist gained a cult following and commercial success by reviving the sonic aesthetics of 1980s film scores and video game soundtracks for a new generation.

Early career

Garrett Hays began producing music under the Lazerhawk moniker in the late 2000s, emerging from the same online music communities that birthed the broader retro-electronic movement. His early work was characterized by a direct, melodic approach to synth-based composition, drawing clear inspiration from classic science fiction and action cinema. These initial tracks quickly found an audience on platforms like MySpace and Bandcamp, leading to his inclusion on crucial early compilations that defined the genre's sound.

Breakthrough

Lazerhawk's breakthrough arrived in 2010 with the release of his debut full-length album, Redline, on the independent label Rosso Corsa Records. The album became an instant touchstone within the growing synthwave scene, praised for its cohesive vision and driving, nostalgic melodies. While independent releases rarely chart, Redline achieved significant digital sales and cemented Lazerhawk's status as a leading name in the genre, with its tracks becoming staples on streaming playlists and internet radio.

Key tracks

Redline — This pulsating title track from his debut album perfectly encapsulates the high-energy, neon-drenched aesthetic that defines his most popular work.

Overdrive — A fan-favorite instrumental known for its infectious, soaring lead synth melody and relentless pace, frequently used in fan-made videos.

King of the Streets — Featured on the Visitors album, this track showcases a grittier, more bass-heavy side of his production, blending synthwave with electro and funk influences.

Feel the Rush Tonight — A standout from the Skull and Shark album, this song exemplifies his ability to craft anthemic, emotionally resonant synthscapes without vocals.

Following his initial success, Lazerhawk maintained a consistent output, releasing albums like Visitors in 2011 and Skull and Shark in 2013 that expanded his sonic palette. He collaborated with fellow producer Perturbator on the track "Ride the Thunder" for the Miami Nights 1984 tribute album, a notable union of two synthwave giants. His music has been featured in video games such as the Hotline Miami series and the film The Guest, further broadening his reach beyond the core electronic scene.

While not directly collaborating, Lazerhawk's music shares stylistic DNA with other key figures in the American retro-electronic scene. Discover similar artists like Miami Nights 1984 for a sunnier, more melodic take on 80s nostalgia. Fans also enjoy the darker, more aggressive tones of Perturbator and the cinematic scope of Timecop1983. For a raw, minimalist approach, explore the work of Dynatron.

The driving synth anthems of Lazerhawk are a regular feature on our network's dedicated electronic music stations, particularly those focusing on retro-futuristic sounds and instrumental synthwave. His tracks provide the perfect soundtrack for our specialty programs that explore the intersection of vintage synthesizers and modern production, captivating listeners who crave nostalgia with a contemporary edge.

You can experience the iconic retro-futuristic sound of Lazerhawk by tuning into the synthwave and electronic music radio stations featured right here on onairium.com. Our curated stations are the premier destination to discover and listen to this foundational artist and the entire movement he helped inspire.