Award winning artist Stormzy releases another single ‘Crown’ following his hit ‘Vossi Bop’ which became his first number one single in the UK singles chart. 'Crown', produced by mj cole and jimmy naples who also co-write the song with stormzy, addresses the pressures surrounding being a role model in society as his fame increases. This track is a personal favourite of mine not only because of its raw and honest lyrics but also because of its gospel undertones.
Stormzy begins the track by saying “Amen, in Jesus name, yes I claim it”; a reference to his faith as we know he was raised in a Christian home. The visuals feature gospel choir LJ Singers in a stripped back yet powerful video filmed at the Church Studio in London.
Stormzy also uses the song as an opportunity to address the backlash he’s received since the roll out of his scholarship for black students at Cambridge University saying “I done a scholarship for the kids, they said it’s racist. That’s not anti-white, it’s pro-black.”
Prior to the release of ‘Crown’ Stormzy took to Instagram to express his feelings regarding the song:
“I’ve been struggling to find words to describe how much this song means to me... struggling to explain exactly why I felt the need to say what I’ve said on the record... and can’t quite summarise the journey of emotions the song takes me on when I listen back to it. I’m very proud of myself for making this song and I can’t wait for you all to hear it.
Nothing but love and respect for my brother Jimmy Napes a world class phenomenal talent and MJ Cole the genius and legend - an honour and a pleasure to work with you both my brothers. We’ve created something very special and close to my heart.” The release of ‘Crown’ comes a week before the Glastonbury Festival where Stormzy will be headlining as the first ever grime artist to headline the world famous festival. This will arguably be the biggest performance of his career but it seems 2019 is looking like another history making year for Stormzy and I’m excited to see what next he has in store. 'Crown' is out now on all major platforms.
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