Rising UK artist Neo 21 sets Bradford ablaze with his groundbreaking debut release “SGMA Remix.” The Nigerian-born lyricist seamlessly merges the storytelling traditions of Afrobeats with the dynamic energy of British hip-hop to stunning effect. In “SGMA Remix”, Neo 21 showcases his lyrical prowess, the flexibility of his delivery and the vividness of his pen. Taking a new approach to the original song by Dave and Jack Harlow, he paints a picture of an immigrant trying to survive in a new country. Neo adds the lyrics that give the tune a positive message about the pursuit of success, togetherness and the ideas of the road and home.
Being a Nigerian, Neo’s creative universe grew in the UK and the new environment opened him up to a variety of influences that made his music unique. He is from Bradford and this is how he gives back by hosting an Afrobeats radio show on BCB 106. 6 and supporting local Afrobeats performances. Neo comes through as one of the few Afro-UK artists who are ready to place Bradford on the map. The show is a bright representation of the Nigerian origin and the experience of being adopted in Bradford, which is illustrated through dynamic performance scenes that reveal the cultural potential of the city. Neo’s vocal performance is passionate and polished, lyrics are sharp and well thought, beats are genre fluid.
The first murmurings of hype accompany Neo as Bradford develops in tandem with him, as the city that has become the melting pot for the fusion of Afrobeats and grime. With real lyricism, charm and a focus on his people, Neo presents himself as a fresh face in hip-hop. In “SGMA Remix,” he triggers global attention as the pioneer of a new movement in the North of England. Global stardom is surely around the corner for this immigrant storyteller who has such a natural way of speaking to audiences all over the world through the shared experiences of migration, struggle, and the pursuit of dreams. Neo 21 points the direction for artists enabled at the crossroads of cultures. Bradford is now set ablaze.
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