DJ MAK 10 AND BALA BALA BOYZ JOIN FORCES IN HARD HITTING FUNKY TRACK ‘MAD IN THE FETE’
Multi-genre DJ and Producer MAK 10 has linked up with London’s Congolese led MC Group Bala Bala Boyz to make the hit single ‘Mad In The Fete’ which, as the name suggests, is set to go crazy at any party or function.
MAK 10 is no stranger when it comes to the UK music scene with his career beginning with the infamous grime group, Nasty Crew, working alongside legendary artists such as Dizzee Rascal, Ghetts, Kano, D Double E, Footsie, etc. Making him one of the pioneers of the London genre Grime, Throughout the years DJ MAK 10 has been able to master his craft as a DJ and producer while evolving with the changes that come over time and being able to adapt to the shifts in music is not done overnight. From Grime to House to UK Funky, MAK 10 has shown his expertise in all areas of dance music and this latest single displays this.
From the sharp hitting snares and the 4 to the floor kick drum, ‘Mad In The Fete’ instantly grabs attention and is a bold introduction to the rest of the track. Followed by cutting synth leads and deep bass melodies, the track will get listeners bopping their heads in enthusiasm from the steady drumbeat and with a screwface on from the dark and exciting sounds. The 131BPM, which is typically used in UK Funky, sets a perfect pace for the MC group, Bala Bala Boyz, to bring their unique and distinctive rap style and flow to.
Bala Bala Boyz are a London’s MC group of Congolese descent consisting of members – Chef Kalinga 9, King Bala 5, Orz Trinity 7 and Moj Zyo 1. Each member residing in a different corner of the city but all sharing the same Congolese background which sets the foundation of the collective. B.B.B are known for their use of fusing Lingala, a Bantu language used in Congo and parts of Angola, with London slang and sounds of the U.K. underground. In January 2020, DJ mag described the Bala Bala Boyz as “trailblazers for authenticity, melding genuine elements of traditional, Congolese-led flows with the new, and deriving their own dialect in the process: Linglish.”
‘Mad In The Fete’ is set to make a mark by fusing genres and styles to evaluate dance music and bring it to new areas. Also, the track is released on one of London’s biggest and well-established radio station/record label – Rinse FM. This being the home to most of the popular UK dance music and artists such as Katy B, Geeneus, P Money, Novelist, Roska, etc, making Rinse FM a perfect match for the single. With support from BBC Radio 6 Music DJ, Mary Anne Hobbs, DJ MAK 10 and Bala Bala Boyz have hit the floor running and continue to reach the right audience.
STREAM/DOWNLOAD – MAK 10 FT BALA BALA BOYZ – MAD IN THE FETE
Make sure to follow DJ MAK 10 and Bala Bala Boyz on the socials to stay up to date with upcoming releases and updates.
DJ/Producer Duo 633 Drop New Single Take Control
EAST LONDON’S HOTTEST DJ/PRODUCER DUO 633, RELEASE SOPHOMORE SINGLE ‘TAKE CONTROL’ FT. NIZZY, DROWZE, KIDALPHA & OB FLAMEZ
Soul-stirring and culturally immersed, East London’s hottest DJ and production duo 633 return with their release of single ‘Take Control’ featuring Nizzy, Drowze, Kidalpha and OB Flamez.
Making a strong entry to 2020 by working with artists including KSI, AJ Tracey and JME, 633 also dropped their debut single ‘Run Around’, which received strong support across Kiss Fresh, BBC Radio 1Xtra, theresnosignal and over 120,000 streams via Spotify. In addition to their production and artist elevation, long-term friends Jevanni Letford (“Royal Wedding DJ” / KSI’s Official DJ / Reprezent Radio) and Eugene Diabour (D Double E), haven’t stopped to take the foot off the gas, with the year seeing them perform at the worlds biggest radio rave ‘Kiss Fest’ alongside names including Calvin Harris, Joel Corry, Gorgon City and Rachel Anson. The final piece of the 2020 puzzle comes as their sophomore release, ‘Take Control’ touches down and they tip it to be the “biggest close to the year.”
Representing the most exciting components of UK Afro-Caribbean culture and drawing upon Afrobeats, R&B and dancehall influences, 633 have found their power in creating unique, melodic and memorable records. “We drafted in Nizzy, Drowze, OB Flames and Kid Alpha to give it an authentic UK Afro sound”, say Jevanni and Eugene who are self-releasing the track. The instrumentation includes ambient swaying chords floating around the foundation of the song and the simple fall to the floor drum beat and afrocentric percussion adds movement. Each individual talent and element come together to display the musical skill and chemistry they have to offer.
Mapping out their own exceptional solo careers respectively, Jevanni has built a strong name as a DJ seeing him support and work with the likes of Skepta, Nile Rogers, Tinie Tempah, Talib Kweli and Kanye West as well as appearing on BBC Sports Relief and making a cameo in the 2018 Snickers TV ad as DJ in Sir Elton John’s hip hop house party. Eugene has gained credits and worked with Cheryl, Kele le Roc, UK hip hop Legend Sway as well as D Double E, Fallacy and many others, so the combination of talents to form the duo, aided by their lengthy friendship, is proving to be a magnificent one.
Stay up to date with 633 by following their socials for news about upcoming releases & more.
Ransom FA Drops Table Visuals
SCOTTISH RAPPER & TV STAR, RANSOM FA WILL LAUNCH NEW BBC 3 RAP SHOW ALONGSIDE RELEASE OF NEW SINGLE TRACK – ‘TABLE’
When regarding the Scottish Rap scene, Ransom FA is currently the biggest name coming out of the north of the British Isles and has subsequently grown to be one of the most stand out rappers in the current sound sphere
Having shared the stage with many of the biggest UK Rappers, such as Skepta, Mist and M Huncho,, he is also titled as the first Scottish rapper to ever grace an Eskimo Dance line up, has amassed hundreds of thousands of streams across key platforms such as Risky Roadz, 1Xtra and GRM Daily, plus he also featured as one of the stars on the first BBC Three and BBC 1, multi-award nominated series ‘The Rap Game’, hosted by DJ Target, Krept and Konan. Thrusting the Scottish Rap scene into the limelight, Ransom involuntarily, but proudly, made the music industry to take Scottish Rap seriously and in his new track, the Aberdeen representative lays down his cards on the ‘Table’ to detail his tumultuous journey.
‘Table’ is a story about reflection and relief, perfectly retold with genuine heartfelt lyricism and Ransom’s Scottish accent grabbing on to the bars to pour further resonance into the soul of the record. Lyrically retracing troubled times from his past, challenges he faced and overcame, plus the questioning over loyalties of those within his circle, the emotive instrumental, produced by Lord Akira, is a perfect convoy for the message of this track. As said by Ransom FA himself: “Since linking up with Lord Akira, I was finally able to make the music that energizes my imagination. We’re on the rise so felt only right to create an anthem to suit the occasion”
The mellow piano chords and vintage vocal-sample chops set a solid foundation, whilst the faint synth hum adds a subtle brightness to the beat. The drum pattern is kept simple with minimal flares of percussion, including high hat variations and clap rolls, allowing Ransom’s unique and defining voice to be highlighted and the lyrics to create the main rhythm of the record. From the catchy chorus to the canny verses, the whole track comes together to provide a constant flow and upbeat directive.
Whilst Ransom FA has been instrumental in making the Scottish Rap scene flourish, he continues to claim achievements throughout his career in numerous directions. Alongside being a talented music artist, Ransom is also becoming well-versed in TV and philanthropy. He recently presented a documentary on Goal FM, known as the ‘Vice of Football’, and is set to be returning to tv screens to host his very own show alongside Scunthorpe based rapper F.O.S. on BBC 3 – ‘The Rap Trip’ where the duo will be travelling the UK to discover and explore the burgeoning Rap communities emerging across Great Britain. Closer to home Ransom has also ensured his local community don’t face the restrictions that a lack of musical infrastructure gave him and he has opened ‘Ransom HQ’ in his hometown – a studio space that offers affordable services as well as a variety of workshops for the next generation of artists.
Becoming a regular at taking the screens and speakers by storm, there’ll be no hiding from Ransom FA as he steps up to the ‘Table’.
Stay up to date with RANSOM FA by following his socials for news about upcoming releases & more.
INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | YOUTUBE | SOUNDCLOUD
PR: remina@tenletter.co.uk | @TenLetterPR // RADIO: nina@tenletter.co.uk | @TenLetterRADIO
Dub of London: Baseline of a City
A new exhibition celebrating dub reggae and it’s influence in London. This is a free exhibition (w/ general admission ticket) running from the 2nd October 2020 – 31 January 2021 at the Museum Of London.
Exploring the musical influence of Dub, alongside community, fashion and spirituality, Dub London examines how dub is a varied vein that runs through an entire community.
Photograph: © Eddie Otchere /Museum of London
Photograph: © Eddie Otchere/Museum of London
Photograph: © Peter Marshall/Museum of London
“The story of Dub culture in London is a fascinating one and one that hasn’t been told this widely in a museum setting before. Through getting out into the places and speaking to the people who have been instrumental in the Dub scene, we’ve been able to hear stories of how London was central for the emergence of Dub in the UK. ”
Cedar Lewisohn, Curator
#DubMusic #SoundSystemCulture #LondonSoundSysytems #DubReggae
Channel U Returns To TV In November
The iconic Channel U returns to TV screens this November. The music channel started broadcasting back in 2003, and quickly became the home of Grime for a generation. Providing the visuals for some of the most formative tracks that have defined the Grime scene.
Channel U’s return launch will premiere ‘Against All Odds’ – A film documenting the rise of Grime in the UK. The flick, which is directed and produced by Nicky ‘Slimting’ Walker @NickySlimting and Femi Oyeniran @femioyeniran—will feature several of the genre’s pioneers, such as D Double E, Ghetts, Jammer and more. The soundtrack, in conjunction with Motown Records UK, will feature the aforementioned MCs, plus Novelist, Capo Lee, Bruza, Tempz and more.
For us as kids, Channel U was the greatest TV channel on Earth, so for us to be able to bring it back is important. It was the first broadcast platform for every MC, and for us as kids, it was the first time we saw these stars on screen.
Femi Oyeniran told BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat.
Channel U will return to it’s home channel 385 on the 13th November 2020. We are looking forward to it’s return, this could not be a more perfect time with UK urban music going from strength to strength at the moment.
#ChannelU #GrimeTV #GrimePioneer #UKMusicscenen #UKMusic
Omar Mansoor LFW Spring/Summer ’21 “Kintsugi”
Omar Mansoor inaugurated his 16th presence in the London Fashion week with his collection, ‘Kintsugi.’ Kintsugi is the Japanese art of putting broken pottery pieces back together with gold. The overarching meaning of this age-old practise is similar to the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi, which can be defined as accepting and rejoicing in one’s supposed ‘flaws’ and ‘imperfections.’
This collection revolves around sophisticated shades of ivory and white, which represent a spiritual coming into one’s own through self-acceptance and self-awareness, which in turn speaks of the onset of new chapters in one’s life.
A firm believer of sustainability in fashion, Mansoor has used ‘deadstock fabrics’ (discarded fabrics which usually end up as landfill, hence polluting the planet), including recycled fibres for his Kintsugi collection. For the designer, fashion can be fun, glamorous and eco-friendly at the same time. Mansoor hopes that through his work, he is able to play his part in spreading awareness about the environment, and at the same time, encouraging the fashion world to adopt a circular model rather than a linear one.
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London 
Designer: Omar Mansoor. Picture by Colin Chau/Fashion London
This gorgeous capsule collection primarily consists of two-piece looks which highlight multi-functionality. Tailored trousers to puffed sleeves tops that can be mixed and matched to create a certain outfit from day to evening wear.
This year, Mansoor’s collection was presented physically and digitally at Hard Rock Hotel London and online.
Foot wear by: Lucy Choi London | @lucychoilondon
Photos: Colin Chau | @colinchau
For further press queries, please email:
Instagram: @omar.mansoor
Kay Young Just Giving Thanks
British artist Kay Young delivers a song that we can all relate to. Despite everything that goes on in the journey of life, Kay still gives thanks. Telling her story in her poetic ‘Floetry’ style rap, over this soulful track. Another great one to add to the playlist.
Check out Kay Young on Instagram @kayyoungmusic
Agudo Dance Company Are Back!
We are back in action!
After an inspiring and intensive creative residency at the iconic Fairfield Halls Croydon, we are proud to share the production trailer for Carmen. A huge thank you to our 8 incredible dancers, the creative team, partners, and Croydon Council who enabled this residency to take place safely.
Tour booking is now open for August-November 2021.
For UK tour booking enquiries contact:
Sarah Trist Dance Management Agency
sarah@stdma.com
For international tour booking, general enquiries, and workshops please contact:
Claire Cunningham, Executive Producer, Agudo Dance Company
clairepooka@gmail.com
Warm wishes from
Jose & Claire
Carmen is co-commissioned by
Fairfield Halls, Croydon CEZ, Croydon Council, Lakeside Arts, DanceEast
Supported by
Arts Council England, University of East London, The Place, The Yoga Edge
Originally commissioned by ŻfinMalta National Dance Company
Filming and editing
Nick Atkins
Cellar Door’s Mark Sarfo-Kantanka and Farouk Deen appear in The Leaders Council podcast alongside Lord Blunkett
The Leaders Council of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is currently in the process of talking to leadership figures from across the nation in an attempt to understand this universal trait and what it means in Britain and Northern Ireland today.
Our guys, Mark Sarfo-Kantanka and Farouk Deen were invited onto an episode of the podcast, which also included an interview with Lord Blunkett. Host Scott Challinor asked guests a series of questions about leadership and the role it has played in their careers to date.
Scott Challinor commented, “Hosting a show like this, where you speak to genuine leaders who have been there and done it, either on a national stage or within a crucial industry sector, is an absolute honour”.
Mark Sarfo-Kantanka said, “We are delighted to be involved in this podcast and contribute to the subject matter of leadership. Also highlighting the effects of Covid-19 we hope will stimulate further action from the UK Government”
Lord Blunkett, chairman of The Leaders Council of Great Britain and Northern Ireland said, “I think the most informative element of each episode is the first part, where Scott Challinor is able to sit down with someone who really gets how their industry works and knows how to make their organisation tick. Someone who’s there day in day out working hard and inspiring others. That’s what leadership is all about”.
The complete podcast is available to listen to on YouTube here:
or alternatively on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1XwYfgH3n6lw1wiRl9LBOe?si=KWvXBcu2QZWwRsQOFTGcaQ
Milli Major Drops Soundtrack To Major Paper
MILLI MAJOR BRINGS THE UK SCENE TOGETHER ON THE RELEASE OF THE FULLSOUNDTRACK FROM HIS SHORT FILM ‘MAJOR PAPER’
Following the release last month of his critically acclaimed debut film ‘Major Paper’ that has been featured with the likes of Complex, Trench and the Voice Newspaper, Milli Major releases the full 5 track soundtrack.
Following on from teaser singles ‘Driller’s’ featuring Nines, Paper Pabs and Bossman Birdie, this was then followed with the high ocatane release ‘Madness’ ft Deepee, Tion Wayne and Big Narstie. Independently curated in its entirety, the ‘Major Paper’ film and soundtrack features an all-star cast or talent from the rich pool of UK’s Rap scene and its borders. The film itself features Paper Pabs, Lippy Lickshot, So Large and Tempa T whilst the exclusive, self-curated music, which is pivotal to the gripping plot of the 12-minute short, sees some of the scenes biggest names including Paper Pabs, Bossman Birdie, Nines, Flirta D, Deepee, Tion Wayne, Big Narstie, Armz Korleone, Tempa T, Scrufizzer and Bushkin add each of their own spins to create a culturally iconic piece for the UK rap scene.
With fantastic support from national radio and various tastemakers, the UK’s thriving black music scene is placing its full weight behind the ground-breaking move from Milli Major. Centred on the harsh realties of crime and gang culture from London’s inner-city streets, both the storyline and the music are centred on reality and experience that is identifiable to many and fascinating to others
‘Major Paper’ as described by Wonderland is a ‘ground-breaking new project’ and it’s clear that it’s been a painstaking process to identify the exact people, producers, sounds and styles to make this project work. Tapping in on a broad range of influences and A&R’ing some pleasingly surprising collaborations, the soundtrack features Instagram sensation and fitness instructor Armz Korleone alongside Tempa T for ‘Pre-Workous Season’ before taking on a garage vibe in track 5 ‘Mr Lover’ featuring Scrufizzer and Bushkin. The experienced producer roster also hits hard with the likes of Heavy Trackerz, Coco, OH91 and Jack Junior stepping in to bring their musical magic.
From drill to grime, Milli Major has created a blockbuster soundtrack with an all-star line-up and energy that is exceptionally representative of the UK scene right now, as well as bridging the gap to the film world.
Talking to international Rap DJ Charlie Sloth, Milli Major says “I depict my reality, all of this is a part of me, you never know what you will get when you see my name on a track, I have many sounds, I might make a drill tune today and then make a grime tune tomorrow. My sound is a hidden treasure.”
STREAM/DOWNLOAD/WATCH: MILLI MAJOR – MAJOR PAPER
Stay up to date with MILLI MAJOR by following his socials for news about upcoming releases & more.
MILLI MAJOR // INSTAGRAM
#ukdrill #majorpaper #millimajor #soundtrack #ukdrillscene #ukdrillmusic #ukurbanscene #ukrappers #ukmusicscene
