It’s almost been a full year since UK grime icon Skepta announced his next album, Knife and Fork. It will be his sixth studio effort, and first rap tape since his 2020 joint effort with Chip and Young Adz, Insomnia. In terms of solo bodies of work, we got our last serving in the genre from him in 2019 with Ignorance is Bliss. He’s been doing some incredible work in the house space with some spare loosies. But the time is near for Big Smoke, and we cannot wait. Unfortunately, a release date remains hidden from us. It’s got us feeling we will receive the LP sometime early next year.
But of course, we are hoping it arrives before 2024’s end, as there are still a few weeks remaining. He’s been keeping fans fed with four and potentially five promotional singles since the title reveal, though. “Jangrova” with Idris Elba, Tribal Mark, and ODUMODUBLVCK got things started. “Gas Me Up (Diligent),” “Tony Montana,” “Miss Independent,” and “Why Lie?” with Flo Milli then followed suit. All of that brings us to “Alpha Omega,” a big boss cut with some terrific production from one of the trap legends, Lex Luger. If you know your Greek alphabet, alpha is the first letter and omega is the last. He’s essentially letting everyone know that he was here from the start and will be at the end thanks to his work ethic and hunger to be number one.
I’m the Alpha and the Omega, the star player You’re a liar, big capper, a pump faker Seen you around, but you’re never involved, a spectator Can’t you see the Spirit of Ecstasy? This ain’t a Bentayga (Huh?) Nah, how we’re livin’? I’m never quittin’ (Woo) V ‘Bach whippin’, Rollie ain’t tickin’
Some people may have forgot, so we are going to remind y’all. Skepta made a big announcement at the top of 2024, and it was for his next album. The UK legend’s sixth studio album is a grand return for him as well, as he’s been more in the thick of the EDM and grime scenes over the last few years. Since the reveal, Big Smoke has gone on to give us four possible singles, with “Jangrova,” a January 19 release, being the first. The rollout hit a bit of a speedbump right after that, as the cover art for “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” drew some backlash for its assumed reference to The Holocaust(it wound up not being that).
Things would pick back up in March with “Tony Montana,” and then “Miss Independent” in July. Something that we have noticed from the Ignorance is Bliss rapper is that he’s looking to try out multiple soundscapes. We have heard forays into Afrobeats, trap rap, and even sexy drill. This time, Skepta is dipping his toes into pop rap with Flo Milli on “Why Lie?” He’s entirely new to this subset by any means, but it’s not his normal home either. He’s doing some more singing on this cut and even trade some lines and adlibs with the Alabama femcee. It’s not your usual Skepta, so we are curious to hear what you think about it.
Is we makin’ plans tonight? Say your old b**** ain’t actin’ right I’m tryna see what it’s like, I’m tryna see what’s the hype (Oh, yeah) You can’t handle my dude, he a meanie I’m his fav’, he don’t wanna leave me A** fat, the True Religion greedy (Oh) Hair cold, I think I need a beanie (Okay)
Kanye West premiered a new song with British grime MC Skepta tentatively titled “Cash Cow” at a private party for Vultures. Footage from the event offers a snippet of the previously unheard track. The few seconds of audio features Ye and Skepta delivering bars one after the other. The beat sounds more in line with what Skepta raps over than what fans know Ye for.
It is not clear if the track will be saved for Vultures 3. There is a chance that Ye adds it to Vultures 2 as one of the album’s many bonus tracks. Considering West’s spotty release history in the last ten years, there is also a possibility that the song never sees the light of day. Kanye West and Skepta’s relationship goes back nearly a decade. However, they have yet to officially appear on a track together. Skepta previously shared a snippet of West on a remix of his track, “Peace of Mind,” during West’s rollout for Donda, his tenth LP.
In addition, Skepta received credit as a songwriter on Kanye West’s 2018 track, “I Thought About Killing You” alongside fellow British rapper Wiley. The duo’s most famous crossover came at the 2015 BRIT Awards. At that show, West premiered “All Day” alongside Allan Kingdom, Theophilus London and several UK hip-hop stars.
Fans probably would have preferred a collaboration between the two a few years ago, when Kanye West was closer to an elite rapper than he is now. Vultures 2 recevied the lowest marks of West’s career, sitting at a critic score of 40 on Metacritic. One of the most persistent critiques of the new release is that West is proving to be increasingly less capable as an MC. You can read our review of the album here. Skepta’s first solo LP in five years, Knife and Fork, is scheduled to release before the end of 2024. However, since he first announced it, he has not shared any further details. Maybe Kanye West will find inspiration in making music with the grime legend.
From the gritty streets of Harlem to the global stage, Rakim Mayers, better known as ASAP Rocky, has revolutionized contemporary hip-hop. In 2011, he dropped his mixtape Live. Love. ASAP, which served as an early indication of this direction. Rocky has become a major force in contemporary hip-hop, known for his innovative production, fashion-forward style, and fire bars. Later, signing with Polo Grounds Music and RCA Records only amplified what we already knew about him being destined for greatness—constantly challenging rap’s status quo.
The thing about Rocky’s career, though, is that it never sticks to one particular sound or approach. Rather, he shows off different sides every now and then so that you can’t put a label on him too quickly. He’s made hits from groundbreaking singles like “Peso” or “Purple Swag” to critically acclaimed albums such as At.Long.Last.ASAP (2015). Rocky also experiments more with pop mixed in together with darker elements. There’s always something new happening within his music which makes other artists take notice.
1. “Peso” (2011)
“Peso” is the track that first put ASAP Rocky on the map, released in 2011 as part of his debut mixtape Live. Love. ASAP. The song quickly became a viral hit, thanks to its hypnotic beat produced by ASAP Ty Beats and Rocky’s confident flow. “Peso” captures the essence of Rocky’s early style, combining Harlem street rap with Southern hip-hop influences. The track’s success led to a major label deal with Polo Grounds Music and RCA Records, marking the beginning of Rocky’s ascent in hip-hop.
The impact of “Peso” also extended beyond its initial buzz, as it was a crucial stepping stone in Rocky’s career. The accompanying music video, which features striking visuals of Rocky and his crew in their Harlem neighborhood, further amplified the song’s reach. “Peso” is essential for introducing Rocky’s distinctive sound and style and setting the stage for his future success in music and fashion.
2. “Goldie” (2012)
The song “Goldie” was the first single released from A$AP Rocky’s debut album Long. Live. ASAP, which came out in 2012. Hit-Boy produced the track, with a rich-sounding bass line that perfectly matches Rocky’s charismatic delivery. In this song, he talks about all of his favorite things about being rich and famous, like fashion week in Paris or driving fast cars through New York City streets. It’s not hard to see why people loved this record so much; it is sonically pleasing, and A$AP is painting pictures with words.
This joint got rave reviews, too. Critics said things like, “Rocky is the king of rap” or “he might just be one of the greatest ever.” Further, Rocky directed the music video for “Goldie” himself with help from fashion photographer Daniel Sannwald. Filmed on location in Paris, France, this video highlights Rocky’s keen sense of style.
“F**kin’ Problems” is one of ASAP Rocky’s most commercially successful songs. It was also released in 2012 as the second single from his debut album Long. Live. ASAP. The track features a star-studded lineup with Drake, 2 Chainz, and Kendrick Lamar. It was produced by Noah “40” Shebib and C. Papi. The song’s hook and verses helped it climb to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100, earning multiple platinum certifications and becoming a staple in Rocky’s catalog.
The collaboration brought together some of the biggest names in hip-hop, each delivering memorable verses. The success of “F**kin’ Problems” demonstrated Rocky’s ability to create mainstream hits while still maintaining his distinct edge. The accompanying music video, directed by Sam Lecca, features the four rappers performing in various sleek, minimalist settings. This helped emphasize their charisma and star power. This track is essential for showcasing Rocky’s ability to collaborate with top-tier artists and produce chart-topping hits.
4. “L$D” (2015)
“L$D” was a single from Asap Rocky’s At.Long.Last.A$AP, his second studio album, released in 2015. It marked a change in his music style. This is a psychedelic love song produced by Rocky that differs from his usual sound, with rock and electronic elements added. The experimental nature of this song was highly praised by critics. They appreciated its dreamy vocals and introspective lyrics about love and tripping on drugs.
The official music video for L$D (directed by Dexter Navy) takes an already trippy song even further out there. The stunning visuals and creative camera work used vibrant colors to capture the feel of Rocky’s trip through different scenes while still remaining within one location. In terms of his catalog, “L$D” is especially important because it shows how far he’s willing to go artistically while exploring new sounds. What sets apart this particular tune from Rocky’s others is that he blends genres together so seamlessly. This also helps showcase just how versatile A$AP can be as an artist and all aspects of production.
5. “Praise The Lord (Da Shine)” Featuring Skepta
Included in his third studio album Testing as a 2018 single, “Praise the Lord (Da Shine)” shows ASAP Rocky’s international influence. It was produced by Skepta, who is a British grime artist, making it a transatlantic anthem. The flute riff that you can’t get out of your head, along with the impressive production, are among some things people love about this track.
Further, the music video for “Praise the Lord (Da Shine)” was shot in New York City and London. Split-screen visuals were used throughout various scenes throughout both cities, showing how they differ in street culture but still remain connected somehow or another through shared experiences. This song demonstrates how wide-ranging Rocky’s discography is by manifesting his aptitude for uniting musical spheres and also being a global hip-hop icon.
Skepta is one of the UK grime’s most beloved figures and for good reason. The Tottenham rapper and DJ’s scope extends past hometown, as he immensely popular over here in the States. He really is one of the leaders when it comes to bringing that sound to various audio markets. It is why he has so many listeners eager to get their hands on upcoming seventh studio album, Knife And Fork. It is hopefully coming soon, as Skepta is back with its fourth single, “Miss Independent”.
Big Smoke began the rollout in late January with “Jangrova”. It remains to be a rewarding listen and it is equal parts exhilarating and manic. Skepta dropped it alongside actor Idris Elba, ODUMODUBLVCK, and Tribal Mark. Then, the veteran would give us the more by-the-numbers but still engaging, “Gas Me Up (Diligent)”. The track’s cover art got the influential figure in some hot water for its assumed callback to The Holocaust. Finally, Skepta, Portable, and JAE5 would merge for an Afrobeats rhythm on “Tony Montana”.
This brings us to “Miss Independent”, the most love-centric and vulnerable song yet. It features R2R MOE, a New York drill artist who is a sexy drill advocate. It is clear that Skepta is going to give fans a bevy of soundscapes on Knife And Fork, as he adopts the drill subgenre taking the industry by storm. The production feels very Cash Cobain-esque. Instead, he is nowhere to be found here. PoWR Trav handles the instrumental and incorporates a stunning sample into the mix. See how Skepta fares on “Miss Independent” with the music video link below.
I think I’ve been too polite so nowadays I’m moving precise (Huh) ‘Cause if love is a losing game, then you know I ain’t losing twice (Never) Trust, she wants to be my wife, my boo for life I told her I’m too busy for thе bad vibes, I’m only comin’ around if the mood is right (Trust) Last time, shе made me spend my savings, who knows what I’m gonna do this time (Huh?) I’m in boobytrap, my guy needs a visa, he’s tryna choose his wife (Ha)
There are a lot of artists we are dying to hear new projects from. After a fairly uneventful year in 2023 from the mainstream, everyone is making up for lost time. They are also looking to prove that the genre is still alive and deserves its flowers as one of the top subsets of music across the globe. One of those rappers making a highly-awaited return is Skepta. At the turn of 2024, the UK great announced Knife and Fork, his first foray back into rap since 2020’s Insomnia. Skepta is back to teasing the record with “Tony Montana.”
This is now the third single that will land on his seventh project. He got off to a strong start releasing “Jangrova” back on January 19 with Tribal Mark, ODUMODUBLVCK, and Idris Elba (IDRIS). Then, just a week later, he would go on to put out the controversial single “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” with production from Cardo. Its cover art, which fans believed made disgusting callbacks to The Holocaust, was eventually taken down after pushback from Skepta.
Listen To “Tony Montana” By Skepta, Portable, & JAE5
All of that brings us to “Tony Montana,” which is a drastic deviation from the usual sonics we are accustomed to hearing from the grime icon. Skepta goes for more of an Afrobeat vibe, which has been taking over as of late. To help bring some more African authenticity, Portable, a Nigerian singer and rapper delivers the chorus. It is easily the most chill example we have heard out of the three and it features production from JAE5, a popular UK producer.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new single, “Tony Montana,” by Skepta, Portable, and JAE5? Is this the best single from Knife and Fork, why or why not? What is your favorite element of the song and why? Who had the strongest performance on the track and why? Is this going to be an album of the year contender? We would like to hear what you have to say, so be sure to leave your takes in the comments section. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Skepta. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Quotable Lyrics:
I said “No comment,” just to make a statement How thеy hate me ’cause I’m winnin’? AP kickin’, my Rolliе ain’t tickin’ One of one-fifty, the whip that I’m whippin’ Now they wishing they could’ve catched a man slipping S-H-O-K-O-L-O-K-O-B-A-N-G-O-S-H-Y, shokolokobangoshy
Skepta had the internet in a little bit of a frenzy a couple of weeks ago when he revealed some cover art. It is for his second album single “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” which just dropped today. The song will land on his next highly-awaited studio album Knife And Fork. The reason why some people were so up in arms about it was because the artwork evoked one of the most inhumane events in the history of mankind.
As most music fans are aware, Kanye was dragged through the mud (deservedly so) for his derogatory statements. Those of which were directed at the Jewish community. Fans were jumping to conclusions that Skepta was in on the hate speech as well. However, the UK rapper hopped on Twitter to explain the meaning behind his artistic direction.
Some fans were praising him for sticking to his guns and not letting others influence his decision. Originally, Skepta was going to fix it but decided against it. Now that the song is here, how does it sound? Well, it is not too shabby. The production from Cardo is solid with cowbells, kick drums, and nice bass. Skepta brings a nice flow and some nice bars about becoming successful. Overall, there is nothing that is mind-blowing, but it sounds fine.
What are your thoughts on this brand-new single, “Gas Me Up (Diligent),” by Skepta? Is this the better of the two singles, if so why? Does this track get you excited for Knife And Fork? Is Skepta the greatest UK rapper ever? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Skepta. Finally, stay with us for the most informative song posts throughout the week.
Quotable Lyrics:
Soon as you say, “On sight,” wе lookin’ for you like some vintage Prada Lookin’ for you like some archive pieces (Pow-pow, pow) Jealousy in the ends, they hate when you become successful But in the trenches, we were all friends How long we tryna pretend? I know they love to see me do well
UK grime star Skepta recently announced his return, sharing the artwork for his upcoming single “Gas Me Up (Diligent).” However, after a backlash, he’s since rescinded that artwork, while also offering an explanation clearing up his intentions for it.
The cover, which featured a photograph of men with the song’s title tattooed onto their shaved heads, was criticized for evoking Holocaust imagery. Fans apparently connected the term “gas me up” with the Nazis’ practice of gassing Jewish prisoners in concentration camps, where they also shaved inmates’ heads.
According to Skepta, though, the imagery was meant to instead evoke a different historical period (arguably, one that was politically diametrically opposed to the fascist leanings of early 20th century Germany.
“I’ve been waiting to drop Gas Me Up (Diligent) since teasing it April last year,” he wrote. “worked hard getting the artwork right for my album rollout which is about my parents coming to the UK in the 80’s, Skinhead, Football culture.”
However, he acknowledged, “it has been taken offensively by many and I can promise you that was definitely not our plan so I have removed it and I vow to be more mindful going forward.”
I’ve been waiting to drop Gas Me Up (Diligent) since teasing it April last year, worked hard getting the artwork right for my album rollout which is about my parents coming to the UK in the 80’s, Skinhead, Football culture and it has been taken offensively by many and I can…
In a follow-up tweet, he presented images of the time period to which the art pointed, along with a further explanation — and a warning. “I can honestly see how my single artwork without context can be deemed offensive, especially in a time like this but again that was not my intention,” he wrote. “But after some thought I don’t feel like I could continue being the artist you all know and love if my art is policed, I have to quit if I can’t express my art as I see it. So to help with context here are some pictures from our mood board for the 1980’s UK story for my album ‘Knife & Fork.’”
I can honestly see how my single artwork without context can be deemed offensive, especially in a time like this but again that was not my intention. But after some thought I don’t feel like I could continue being the artist you all know and love if my art is policed, I have to… pic.twitter.com/59oUOPe8Hp
He also made sure to note that “Gas Me Up” is still scheduled to be released on January 26.
For more context, check out some of the photos provided by fans below. For reference, “skinheads” were an entirely different thing in the UK in the ’80s, and the neo-Nazi groups that arose in the US later in the decade notably co-opted the look for themselves, because bigots are nothing if not terribly uncreative.
The first skinheads were black rude boys from Jamaica. They helped create punk, hardcore and ska. They shaved their heads as a way to protest rastafarian norms and set themselves apart as a movement.
If you want to learn the history of skinheads here in the UK, then this awesome documentary by @RebelDread is a great place to start!https://t.co/7qxPov7Cwf
And then you could do worse than watching this hour long drama/script on the era read here: https://t.co/qgmRcsQap6
Skepta is arguably the most widely respected rapper from the United Kingdom. He has built a great career for himself not only as an influential spitter but also as a house DJ. It has been nearly five years since the release of his last solo album, Ignorance Is Bliss. However, that drought is coming to an end this year. Just a little over a week ago, Skepta revealed that he was going to be putting out a new album.
It is going to be called Knife And Fork. In addition to that, Skepta also announced the lead single, “Gas Me Up (Diligent)” will be out on January 26. Well, he has given us another update by unveiling the artwork. Skepta did so on his social media recently. “GAS ME UP (DILIGENT)Artwork by @gabrielomoses * link in my bio *” While this is all exciting, it is leaving a sour taste in a lot of people’s mouths.
As you can see the art features the backs of people’s shaved heads. They all appear to be on their knees as well. This is drawing some comparisons to one of the most tragic events in human history, The Holocaust. As you can imagine, people are linking this to Kanye West’s many hurtful comments toward the Jewish community that landed him in a lot of issues. Skepta could be hurdling toward a certain fate now too. One person says, “thought this was Ye’s page for a second..” Another adds, “Ye Executive on this one?!?!”
What are your initial thoughts on this brand-new cover art and single announcement from Skepta? Do you think he is in album mode? Are the Holocaust comparisons justified, why or why not? What kind of statement do you think he is trying to make with this artwork? We would like to hear what you have to say about all of this. With that in mind, be sure to leave all of your hottest takes in the comments section below. Additionally, always keep it locked in with HNHH for all of the latest news surrounding Skepta. Finally, stay with us for everything else going on around the music world.
