JANUARY 26, 2024 – Today, Skepta makes his comeback with the release of his new track, “Gas Me Up [Diligent],” produced by Cardo and out now via Big Smoke Records/Epic UK/RCA Records. Fans gave it the nickname ‘Diligent’ following a viral teaser dropped in April 2023. Listen HERE.
Reigniting his roots in rap, the song serves as a preview of his highly anticipated album Knife and Fork, reaffirming Skepta’s position as the UK’s top rapper.
It will drop alongside a video that begins with Skepta on the rooftop of TraxNYC jeweler in New York, and features Clint 419, with scenes shot across London. The video was co-directed by Skepta and collaborator Stevo1k. Video link HERE and still images HERE.
The release follows the announcement of Skepta performing at Coachella this spring, as well as unveiling the line-up for Skepta’s Big Smoke Festival which happens in London on July 6th. Skepta will perform, as will Mas Tiempo, with The Streets announced as a headliner. For more information visit: Festival Republic
“Gas Me Up [Diligent]” can also be heard in the credits of Skepta’s debut film, Tribal Mark, which premiered on January 24th, followed by a nationwide UK release at Everyman Cinemas today. Tribal Mark explores the narrative of a Nigerian immigrant in London with Skepta starring in and serving as co-director and executive producer of the film. With a 90% minority ethnic cast and production team, the film stands as a landmark project from Skepta’s 1PLUS1 Production company.
SKEPTA LIVE:
Fri Apr 12, 2024 – Indio, CA – Coachella
Fri Apr 19, 2024 – Indio, CA – Coachella
Thu Jul 6, 2024 – London, UK – Big Smoke Festival
Tue Jul 11, 2024 – Airport Trenčín – Pohoda Festival
Thu Jul 12, 2024 – Gräfenhainichen, GR – Melt Festival
Fri Jul 19, 2024 – Dour, Belgium – Dour Festival
Fri Aug 9, 2024 – Stuttgart, GR – Hip Hop Open Festival
Sat Aug 17, 2024 – Tampere, Finland – Blockfest
ABOUT SKEPTA
One of the most important influences in the global rap scene, multi award-winning artist Skepta has established himself as a multifaceted force, leaving an indelible mark on the worlds of business, film, fashion and music. Through his journey, he has not only defined the sound of a generation but also become one of the most influential figures in contemporary music. Skepta’s early recordings, established him as a force to be reckoned with, his albums from this point earning him acclaims including the Mercury Prize and becoming defining moments in British rap. COMPLEX deemed him the Best British Rapper of all time. As he continues to evolve, Skepta remains an emblematic figure, embodying the fusion of artistic expression, entrepreneurship, and cultural impact in the 21st century. His current project Mas Tiempo, founded with Jammer, embodies his exploration of electronic music. Beyond music, Skepta is the founder of Big Smoke Corporation which houses creative endeavours. His impact extends into fashion where he has collaborated with brands such as Puma and Burberry, plus launching his own brand, MAINS, blending his Nigerian and British influences into a distinctive identity. His debut film Tribal Mark releases through his own production company, 1+1 Productions this month.
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