British Rapper Skepta Talks Working With Drake & Earl Sweatshirt For His “Konnichiwa” Album

THE GRIME ARTIST COVERS FADER MAGAZINE

(AllHipHop News) American audiences may not be as familiar with English grime artist Joseph “Skepta” Adenuga as music fans from across the pond, but Hip Hop stars from the States are well aware of the 32-year-old North London native.

[ALSO READ: Kanye West Releases “First Official” Video For “All Day”]

Skepta a got a huge shout-out from Kanye West at the BRIT Awards in February. The GOOD Music boss debuted his single “All Day” at the ceremony, and Ye hand-picked Skepta to gather 30 people to join him during the fire cannon filled televised performance.

Besides Mr. West, Skepta has also made fans out of OVO leader Drake and Odd Future affiliate Earl Sweatshirt. A new cover story with Fader reveals Skepta set up studio time with both North American rappers.

But the question was asked if Skepta’s collaborations with Drizzy and Earl will cause him to bend to their respective musical styles. Or does the emcee/producer expect for the two performers to fall into the sound being established for his upcoming Konnichiwa album?

“I put P Diddy on a f*cking grime tune. I don’t care what they feel about it. They have to come on my wave – that’s the only thing that’s going to give my album what it needs,” said Skepta. “I understand the objective now, and I ain’t going to f*cking America to shoot a video. They need to come to the roads with me.”

Skepta is serious about creating a project that reflects his experiences, his lifestyle, and his city. The Nigerian descendant recognized the contrasts between the atmosphere of London versus the glamorous vibe of Hollywood.

“England is so black and white, so plain, like a burger with nothing on it. No salad, nothing. That’s why it’s so real,” Skepta added.

He continued, “I want anybody from around the world to be able to listen to the album and know it comes from London – from the beats, not just the vocals.”

[ALSO READ: Idris Elba Raps On U.K Artist Skepta’s Remix Of “Shutdown”]

Watch the video for Skepta’s “Shutdown” below.