Lauded hip hop icon Wretch 32 unveiled his poignant single ‘Black and British’ on 24 October. The single features renowned artist Little Simz as well as Benjamin AD who lends his soothing vocals to the chorus. 

Released in Black History Month, the track outlines the racism, injustice and prejudice many Black British citizens experience. It’s a brutally honest, vulnerable and raw account from Wretch 32, making it immensely relatable and moving, not only for the Black British community, but for marginilised and indigenous people all over the world. 

Stream Wretch 32, Little Simz‘Black and British’ below:

Wretch 32 comes from a family of activists, with a powerful legacy of resistance and advocating for the rights of Black people in the UK. This set the tone for the single, which also features a sample of his grandmother Beverley Scott speaking at the end. ‘Black and British’ was produced by WAVSDNTDIE, whose minimal approach to the track allowed the lyrics and message to shine. With a subtle beat, and shivering hi-hats WAVSDNTDIE laid a profound foundation for Wretch 32, Little Simz and Benjamin AD.

The accompanying music video is gripping, and masterfully tells the story of Black community, joy, despair, hope, faith and love in times of struggle. It was directed by Meeks and Frost, and filmed against the backdrop of an exhibition of archival photographs of Black British culture, interwoven with vignettes of household scenarios. 

Watch the music video below:

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