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Vibes… #SundaySongs

Hey all, Happy Sunday! I know Sundays for most are quite relaxing or religious and laid back. I have compiled a list of a few songs I’m playing at the moment that have that chilled back vibe. Remember to check out my Spotify playlist on the top of the page! Have a listen below and next week I will be back with more content for you.

Kehlani Ft. Ty Dolla $ign – Nights Like This (2019)

Fun fact: Kehlani was actually the reason I started writing about songs. Originally I started writing as a therapy for me to express my thoughts and problems and it was all due to hearing one of her songs. She has the ability to sing a song and get you invested to the point you start seeing the similarities in your own life. I’ve already talked about my love for Ty Dolla in features and this song is no different. The pair in this song are perfect. This song plays on the idea of deceit and dishonesty as she sings; “You gon’ say you want me, then go switch it up, just gon’ play with my emotions” implying that she’s been messed about. You can feel the pain she feels in this song; “Feel like it’s too hard to fall in love again”, the experience has even made her wary of trying again. Overall, this is one of my favourite Kehlani songs. Have a listen below.

Eric Bellinger Ft. Chris Brown & OG Parker – Type A Way (2019)

This song is taken from Eric’ new 32 song EP titled ‘The Rebirth 2′. I’ve been a fan of Eric Bellinger for a while, he’s a great songwriter and has some great songs. He has a unique catchphrase “This gon’ be your favorite song” which I love hearing at the beginning of a song. OG Parker is a producer and sometimes I feel like producers don’t get enough credit so shout out to him has the production for this song is on point. Chris Brown and Eric fuse so well in this song that sometimes it is hard to even know who was singing. They have similar talents where they can hit high notes and low notes in the same breath. I like the fact that the song is quite mixed in terms of both of them singing. A featured song is mostly just a little piece of the featured artist but this is more a collaborative effort. Have a listen below:

Hypo Ft. Yxng Bane & Asco – First Night (2019)

This is a UK feature and boy is it catchy! The song reminds me exactly of Usher’s song “I Don’t Mind” (2014) where he states that if a woman chooses to be a pole dancer it doesn’t mean she is “loose” which is the stereotype associated with that profession. Similarly to Usher’s song Hypo, Yxng Bane & Asco sing about the same premise and even argue that sleeping with a man on a first night does not mean the guy will not “wife” her. The UK guys make a good group and I’m sure you’ll be singing the chorus repeatedly after a few listens. Have a listen to the song below as well as Usher’s song that possible served as inspiration for them.

Usher’s original
Hypo version.

Pia Mia – Ocean Drive (2017)

Pia is most famous for her song “Do it Again” with Tyga and Chris Brown but I’m surprised this song from her wasn’t more of a hit. I like how the tone of the song changes and the sound gets more upbeat throughout the song especially during the chorus. This song will be best to listen to with a speaker that has a great Base or with both headphones in at the loudest volume. If you close your eyes, in pretty sure you can picture yourself on a beach somewhere, I certainly can!

Angel – Thug Juice (2018)

UK singer Angel has just signed with a major record label which is great. He is so talented and has such a distinctive voice so I’m glad he’s getting the recognition he deserves. This song fits in with the theme of this post. If you want a song to chill to and just bop your head slowly, this is the perfect song. Have a listen below.

2 important video reviews coming next…

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R.I.P. Cadet! Cadet! #UnderratedLegend

Unfortunately over the weekend we were presented with sad news that UK rapper Cadet had sadly passed away. I have previously written posts on Cadet and talked about his amazing lyrical ability. It’s a sad time for the UK music scene as I believe we have truly lost a talent. Part of the reason I love music so much is because of how lyrics can make you feel. Cadet was one of those people that I knew with any song he was part of, I would want to hear what he had to say. He always referenced real life events which I loved and found very original.

An amazing thing I noticed with Cadet was that he always let people know how much they meant to him. All of the messages I have seen written by his loved ones show he always told them he loved them. I love that. Unfortunately we never know God’s plan for us on this earth but i’m pretty sure his was to spread love and inspire those after him. Life can be taken away from us at any moment so one thing we should take from this…to always express how we feel. Never give up on something you can’t go a day without thinking about and ALWAYS be gracious. He will be truly missed by the music scene but I am sure he’s resting in peace and somewhere up there spitting his bars and spreading even more love and positivity. 🙏🏾

1.Cadet – Slut freestyle (2015)

So! This was the freestyle that actually made people see him as a potential lyricist. The raw emotion and storytelling in this freestyle is possibly one of the best I’ve seen. We were shown his vulnerable side from the very beginning and I admire that from a rapper.

2.Tinie Tempah Ft Cadet & Youngs Teflon -Might Flip (2015)

Cadet has the first verse in this song from Tinie’s mixtape. This was probably one of the first songs he featured in after his success with his freestyle. At the time there was a lot of controversy over the nightclub DSTRKT, which Cadet cheekily mentioned in his verse. Starting his verse with his usual catchphrase “Cadet, Cadet” he raps “me and my heart we been moving like DSTRKT, so baby girl we ain’t letting you in”. I remember hearing that for the first time and thinking ha! This guy is clever!

3.Cadet Ft Shakka – Friday to Sunday (2017)

I’ve written about my love for this song before. This is definitely one of my favourite songs from both Cadet and Shakka. The song is such a feel good song and extremely catchy. The song is taken from Cadet’s second mixtape.

4. Cadet – The Stereotype (2016)

This is a typical Cadet song. A stripped back piece of work where he spits his soul with no gimmicks or unnecessary extras. A song that will have you thinking about life and experiences. Similarly to his “Slut” freestyle, Cadet speaks about his life and his weaknesses.

5.Cadet -Letter to Krept (2016)

The reason I think alot of people fell in love with this song was because it really explained the struggles Cadet faced. Again, another record where he wasn’t scared to tell the truth and be seen as vulnerable. He openly apologises to his cousin and fellow rapper Krept and grips onto your emotions.

6. Da Beatfreakz Ft AJ x Deno, Swarmz & Cadet – Pumpy (2018)

Cadet’s verse on this was the best verse from the whole song in my opinion. He really owned this song “want your ball like she Pele”…”I got asthma, lemme pump that” two examples of the puns he used. He was definitely very inventive with his use of them.

7. Cadet Ft. Ay EM X Tion Wayne – Trendy (2018)

This will be one of my favourite songs from Cadet. One of his most recent ones and in his words “Can’t talk trending without talking CADET!! CADET!!”. Have a read one of one of my earlier posts on this song.

https://musicandlifeblog.com/2019/01/02/songs-ive-been-playing-into-2019/

8. Cadet Ft Deno Driz – Advice (2018)

This song originally started off as one of his signature freestyles. After the million views and increased interest, he made it into a released song. This was Cadet’s first song to turn silver and was his highest entry in the charts. Cadet shows his versatility by sticking with his signature comedic bars but making a song that can be on commercial radio. My favourite thing about the song was the fact he incorporated social news inside the song. He referenced the Dele Ali challenge, Shiro’s Story, his old songs as well as the Tion Wayne picture incident.

Cadet was infamous for his freestyle raps, here are a few of my favourite freestyle / battles;

Cadet – Ooouuu Remix (2016)

Cadet x Big Tobz – Corn

Cadet – Ain’t like that

Rest in eternal peace CADET!!!! CADET!!!

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#ThrowbackThursday 31/01/19

It’s that time of week where we reminisce on older but still classic songs. Here are a list of 3 throwback tracks. Have a read and listen below.

1. Usher Ft Alicia Keys – My Boo (US – 2004)

I was listening to this song on the way to work today and suddenly the song had a different meaning. The song taken from his HIT album Confessions I’ve always considered the song a love song and a song about two people singing about their love for one another; “You will always be my boo” especially sticks out. However, after listening to it today the penny dropped that the song demonstrates two people who still have feelings for each other despite no longer being together and both being in different relationships. The idea that “There’s always that one person that will always have your heart ” is common however the idea that that person may always be there even when you are with someone else is quite scary. How can you give your all to someone if someone is already occupying space? In my opinion there is a difference between a “first love” and someone “who always has your heart”. Despite the realisation of the meaning of the song, it is still one of my favourite Usher songs and the duet with Alicia is beautiful. They both hit harmonies angelically. Have a listen to the track below.


2. NSG – Referee (UK – 2016)

UK group NSG who are on fire at the moment with their smash hit ‘Options’ have been grinding for a while. This track which was featured in their EP “Grown Up” is still a banger today. The JAE5 produced track is also accompanied by cool visuals. NSG have been working hard for years but its great to see them shine and get the recognition they deserve. Have a listen and watch below.

3. Kendrick Lamar – LOVE – (US -2017)

The final entry for Throwback Thursday is from US rapper Kendrick Lamar. The song from his 2017 fourth studio album is one of my favourite songs from him. The song is quite soft in comparison to his usual work and focusses on the love and devotion he has with his fiancée. The vocals from Zacari blend very well with Kendrick’s rough but unique rapping style. Have a listen below;

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Songs I’ve been playing into 2019;

Happy New Year everyone! Hope you’ve all had a great break!

Thank you all again for your continued support last year and I promise to try and be more regular with my posts. 

Here are a list of songs I’ve had on replay this week.

1. Kaytranada Ft. Ty Dolla $ign -Nothin Like You;

You may have seen or heard this song in my Instagram stories (if you don’t, follow http://www.instagram.com/musiclifeblog18). Ty Dolla is infamous for his memorable features and this song does not disappoint. Kaytranada is Haitian-Canadian DJ and record producer meaning he produced the beat while Ty offers his vocals. The track provides me with a 80s/90s r&b nostalgic feel. In the song Ty sings about a woman who is unique; “They don’t make ’em like you”, he repeats throughout the song.

2. Memphis Depay – No Love;

Dutch International and Olympique Lyonnais (Lyon) footballer Memphis Depay has released his first official single. Rapping over a strong beat and melody, Memphis spits in Dutch and English. I think he is a talent on and off the pitch to be honest and I’m sure we will hear more great music from him. Have a listen below!

3. Cadet X Tion Wayne X Ay Em;

UK artists collaborate here to create a catchy song that will have you singing that you are “Trendy” without a doubt. Clever wordplay from Cadet (as usual) with the addition of Ay Em singing the hook and Tion Wayne adding his distinctive feature verse. Have a listen below ;

4. Russ Splash – Gun Lean

Another fellow UK artist comes in the form of Drill Rapper Russ. This song and dance has been taking the UK by storm. The song will have you wanted to do the “Gun Lean” dance wherever you hear it. The song reminds me of the huge impact from US songs such as “Crank That” (Soulja Boy, 2007)  and “Teach me how to Dougie” (Cali Swag District, 2010) had on the comparison between dance moves and rap. Have a watch below. 

 

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Weekly Song Roundup

Hey everyone! I know I’ve been gone a while and apologies for the lack of content recently. I am back with more reviews for you. I will be reviewing some new albums for you shortly but for now it’s all about the latest tracks! Here are a few songs I’ve had on repeat this week.

1. Reeko Squeeze Ft. Br3yna – Tracksuit Maf

UK music has been amazing this year and gets more and more versatile each time. This song is by UK rapper Reeko with the amazing feature from UK female rapper Br3yna. The song will have you singing “all white party, I came in black” after hearing it. My favourite part of the song is Br3yna’s feature verse. Have a listen below.

2. 6ix9ine Ft Tory Lanez – KIKA

By now we all have heard the news that 6ix9ine has been put in jail awaiting his trial next year. Unfortunately for him, it came at the time he was due to release his debut album. A leak meant that his team had to release the album a lot earlier than they would have liked to. Personally I have never really liked his music or his projects so granted I was pleasantly surprised by this album. I genuinely enjoyed the songs and the features on the album all made sense. This particular song is my favourite on it and features feature champion Tory Lanez. The beat on this song and steel pan sounds sold it to me from the first few seconds. The song is definitely a club banger and it’s good to see 6ix9ine prove some of his doubters (like me) a bit wrong.

3. NSG Ft. Tion Wayne – Options

This song is produced by JAE5 so you all already know it’s a hit and I’m going to love it!! In all seriousness, this song is great! NSG seem to have a habit of making such great songs & Tion Wayne always delivers with his bars. This was a match made in heaven. It seems every member in the group all give different styles and sounds. NSG have been working for a while now and they consistently bring out hits so I hope they get a lot more recognition.

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3 Tracks you should be listening to:

I’ve been slacking with my usual throwback reviews or new music reviews. Content will be back to normal very soon. In the meantime, I have a few songs on repeat on my Spotify atm and think you guys should check them out.

1. Professor Green Ft Rag’n’Bone Man – Photographs

I am a fan of Pro Green & love his deeper songs. Similarly to “Never be a right time”, this is another personal and relatable song with a beautiful message. I read somewhere that he said the track is “all about wishing for the photos we can no longer take”. The song is also a tribute to his dad who sadly commuted suicide. The lyrics are so touching and Pro Green is ultimately saying that photographs help when thinking of those we have lost, as he states “Just a memory of you is not enough”. The collaboration from Rag’n’Bone Man is perfect as the song has a great balance. One of the most memorable lines for me is when Pro Green raps “We all thought that the moments would last but the moments don’t last, the moments pass & the only thing that lasts is the photograph”. Hopefully this song inspires people to take more photos of and with their loved ones!

2. Ariana Grande – thank u, next

This song has gained so much attention for obvious reasons. I am beginning to really enjoy Ariana Grande songs. It may be due to the fact I feel she is maturing alot more in her song content and even her voice. The vocal ability in this song is overlooked. The great thing about this song is that it had the potential to become a very bitter song with a bad message but she has turned it in such a positive way. The message being sometimes in life we go through highs and lows, we fall in love and get hurt. The main thing to remember is each lesson you learn from each experience. Song content aside, the music production and Ariana’s angelic voice are amazing in this track. Only bad thing is that it’s so catchy that you will be saying “next” after every “thank you” now! Haha!

3. Mr Eazi – Yard & Chill

Mr Eazi has just released a new mixtaoe entitled “Lagos to London”. The EP contains a collection of great songs but this is one of the ones I’ve been playing since the release. The song is produced by one of my favourite producers Jae5. It’s a feel good song with incredible music production that would make you think you are listening to a live rendition in your earphones. “Give me love baby, don’t be wicked”, you will be screaming this line in a Nigerian accent after hearing this song. The song reminds me of an African themed Orchestra or Highlife music. I recommend you play this song on the loudest volume to appreciate the sound at its best!

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One Acen – SexyOddRose EP Review

OK so UK rapper One Acen has released his highly anticipated debut EP. Up to now, he’s been gaining more and more recognition for his catchy singles and classic collaborations with fellow UK rapper Hardy Caprio. One thing I’ve noticed about One Acen is that all of his songs have the replay factor. Every song on this EP could do well as an individual single and that is amazing for any artist let alone a debut EP!

My favourite tracks are:

1. NewwMachine Ft. CallMeTheKidd & Avelino:

Avelino is one of my favourite UK Rappers. Similarly to Wretch 32, he’s one of the few UK rappers that makes you think about what they say. In his verse he says things like “The money’s Dublin, I’m Irish… Take a tour de France we’re not cyclists”, The wordplay he exhibits is so fun to hear. The collaboration on this track is great and it is definitely a song I will be replaying.

2. Piña Colada Xperience/ 3. EIO Ft. Hardy Caprio

OK! These songs are special because firstly both are hits but secondly the transition between them. The transition after “Piña Colada” leading into “EIO” is genius! The sound reminds me of an old console game back in the day. The transition is so smooth that you forget they are two different songs. Nice to mention that “Piña Colada” contains references from Justin Timberlakes hit “Señorita” which probably explains the Spanish theme.

Have a listen to the EP below!

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New Music Saturday!

It’s Saturday so that means more new music has been released this weekend. Here are a list of a few new releases I’m loving at the moment.

1. Zayn – Fingers

It’s been a while since Zayn has released new music and it’s clear that in his time away he has spent it perfecting his sound. This R&B vibe song is about a failed love that has affected Zayn from using his fingers properly to message. It is clear in the song further on that the the fingers are used as a metaphors for his heart as he sings “Cause my fingers ain’t broken, but my heart is”. I’m a fan of this song and I hope his next album is filled with more songs like this.

2. CE – On & On

CE debuts another sensual track this time in the form of his new single “On & On”. I feel this song could be the song that demonstrates his versatility, uniqueness. and huge potential. The catchy hook “on and on” is a standout line throughout the song that hopefully people will be singing for a while. Personally I’ve had this song on repeat since its release and while you’re at it, check out the video too!

3. Brent Faiyaz – Lost (EP)

Someone introduced me to Brent’s music a couple years ago and I am forever grateful. Brent has just released a new EP called ‘Lost’ and it is everything I expected and more. My favourite songs have to be;

-‘Came Right Back‘; Standout line for me is “Why do I feel cursed if I’m so blessed now?” he sings in the second verse. I get the impression Brent is talking about the downfalls of his success in this song but I mostly like how his voice just has you gripped throughout.

– ‘Trust’; The best thing about this song are the adlibs. Brent uses his inner thoughts as backing vocals which you can hear throughout. You get the impression the song is him thinking out loud and questioning himself which I feel is a unique way of portraying a song.

-‘Target on My Chest’; The beat on this song is great and the way Brent transitions to singing from rapping is the best part too. The middle of the song cuts to some kind of instrument solo possibly from a brass instrument which further reiterates the feeling Brent’s songs can put you in. As a listener you feel invested in whatever he is singing.

Have a listen to the EP below:

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Songs to Start your week;

It’s Monday again! & the weather in London is miserable so I’ve made a list of 5 songs, new and old to listen to and set you up for the week. Have a listen below;

1. Quavo – Swing Ft. Normani & Davido

It’s nice to hear Quavo on a different kind of beat & the features from Normani & Davido fit so well. The soothing voice from Normani provides the song with a feminine touch. The vocals and broken English from Nigerian artist Davido provide the song with an afrobeats vibe. Definitely a song you’ll be doing a little shimmy to.

2. WSTRN – Round Here Ft. Skrapz.

I will provide an album review of the new Wstrn album shortly but for now this song is a good pick to start your week! The mix of Louis Rei spitting his usual talented bars, the sensual voice of Haile & the ‘rough’ sound of UK rapper Skrapz is a great match. Definitely a song I’ll be playing all week.

3. Shakka – Long Ting (Produced by Jae5)

OK, I’ve mentioned before Shakka is one of my favourite UK artists & Jae5 is also one of my favourite producers. Together they have already made the 2018 hit “Man Down”. Shakka has a regular event called “Tribe Tuesdays” where he collaborates with someone or himself to create a song within the hour. A few weeks ago he did with Jae5 & this is the song they created. I wish it was longer but hopefully these two work again in the future.

4. Octavian – 54321 Ft. Swift.

British rapper Octavian brought out a really cool tape earlier this year called ‘Spaceman‘ & this is one of the stand out tracks. His unique singing style is a nice song to have in the background when chilling or relaxing. Have a listen below.

5. Ella Mai – Whatchamacallit Ft. Chris Brown

Ella Mai album review coming shortly but in the meantime, have a listen to this beauty. R&B royalty Chris Brown features in a song with R&B newbie Ella and the song is great! It will definitely have you singing “it’s a Whatchamacallit” all day. Both Ella and Chris suit this song and I hope this is the beginning of more joint music from them.

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Songs to start your week;

So much music has been released this past weekend. Before I review some of them in more detail, here are three tracks I currently have on repeat.

1. Asco – Goin On Ft. H the Great:

British rapper Asco has just released his new EP and it’s filled with features and proof that the UK rap scene is so unique and versatile. This particular song contains a catchy hook and quick punchlines that will have you singing along without even realising.

https://open.spotify.com/track/7sCQjtzYD0UJOl1a7Wn0MC?si=zkyNiztGSSO8R_tcS3UW0A

2. T.I. – Jefe Ft. Meek Mill:

T.I. is back with a new album which on the first listen sounds quite good. This particular song features Meek Mill who as usual provides us with a upbeat song. The use of Spanish in the song is also great and the mix is perfect. I particularly like the sound of instruments in this song (sounds like trumpets).

https://open.spotify.com/track/1vw4TJRXkLuuJUtwh4UbYD?si=J3YTC-R9SNGluWeHx8kXZg

3. Tauro Boys – Tempo:

Italian band Tauro Boys are back with another EP called TauroTape2. This particular song is one of my favourites so far of the tape. “Tempo” provides a nice chilled Italian vibe. I believe this band have a big future ahead of them. Take a listen below;

https://open.spotify.com/track/2G990jZJyf4xUtua1XhUrA?si=ReOdaOabQ-e9nfcyfbyokQ

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 14-20

Day 14: (A song played at my wedding);

I love today’s challenge!!! As a Nigerian, music is very important to our culture so song choice is very vital. the song I will be picking is by Nigerian Superstar D’Banj. The song is D’Banj singing about how he has fallen for a woman who has changed him in the best way possible. I have loved this song from the beginning of time and I can guarantee this song will be played.

D’Banj – Fall in Love (2009)

Day 15: A song that is a cover by another Artist;

It’s crazy to think that some covers of songs sometimes sound even better than the original versions. The first song that came to my head would have to be the late Aretha Franklin’s song ‘Respect‘ ( 1965). Most people probably have not even heard the original version of this song by Otis Redding. Needles to say it was Aretha’s version that propelled this song into the hall of fame.

Day 16: One of my favourite songs from a movie;

I’m feeling very motivational at the moment so the first song that comes to mind is an upbeat song! The song is called “Believe” from the film Honey and is from US artist Yolanda Adams, released in 2003. I used to play this song every morning before my exams when I was in school and is still one of my favourite songs. With lyrics such as “You can never give up, you can reach your goals, just talk to your soul and say…
I believe I can (I can)”.
This song is beautiful and the lyrics and sentiments that you should always believe in yourself and keep going are lessons everyone needs to be reminded of.

Day 17: A song that features my favourite artist;

I have more than one favourite artist so I will pick a song that features some of my favourites. Rick Ross and Jay Z are two of my favourite rappers alive. This song is amazing enough to feature the both of them. The common theme between Hov and Ross is that they both have the ability to rap and tell stories that you want to listen to. Both rappers remind me of Biggie and his rapping style. Have a listen below.

Day 18:A song from the year I was born (1993);

Day 19: A song that makes me think about Life;

Again this is hard to pinpoint. Most songs I love make me think about life in different aspects. It could be about love, heartbreak, happiness, sadness, God, family…all aspects of life. A song by Gospel group The Walls Group called ‘Satisfied‘ is an example of a song that made me think about life. The song made me question my priorities in chasing materialstic things when I should be chasing my relationship with God.

Day 20: A song that reminds me of my mum;

Wow!! My mum loves music as much as me so this is hard to pin to one song! My mum always told me whatever you go through in life, know someone else has gone through it already and has a song about it. Any Motown song reminds me of my mum but this song in particular is one her favourites!

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30Day Music Challenge – Day 12; (Songs that I love from 2011)

2011 was an incredible year for Hip-Hop and music as a whole. As you can probably tell by now I can never seem to stick to one song for these challenges so here’s a few songs released in 2011 that I love;

1. Big Sean Ft Chris Brown – My Last (2011)

Wow! I remember exactly where I was when I first heard this song! It was being premiered on the old BET hit show ‘106 & Park’. I remember it being the day I fell in love with Big Sean and his music. The song definitely was the song that propelled Sean into stardom. We can’t forget the impact Chris Brown’s vocals have in this song, I’m sure Chris Brown can slay every feature.

2. Drake – Headlines (2011)

This was the first song to be released from Drake’s legendary “Take Care” album. To be honest, the whole album could be in this post but I’ll stick to one for now. The song gave us the impression that Drake was developing a lot of confidence from his success and was ready to share it with the world. The song was produced by ‘Boi-1da’ and ‘Noah “40″ Shebib’ and the production is incredible especially towards the end of the song. Favourite line has to be ; “I guess it really is just me, myself and all my millions”! What a line!!!

3. Wretch 32 Ft Josh Kumra – Don’t Go (2011)

UK music was big in 2011 and this song in particular was a popular one. Wretch 32 could be argued to be one of the country’s great rappers. Wretch 32’s clever wordplay and Josh Kumra’s soothing voice make a match made in heaven.