- Words Notion Staff
Double MOBO-winning UK rapper Guvna B picks 10 songs that inspire him.
Newham rapper Guvna B’s critically acclaimed ‘everywhere + nowehere’ featured the likes of J Hus’ producer TSB, Wretch 32 and Barney Artist, and if having a stellar album wasn’t enough, it looks like Guvna B is poised for more of a fantastic year with a top 5 spot on the UK Hip-Hop & R&B Albums chart. Now, he’s dropped a music video for fan favourite track “These Are The Days” with Ezra Collective.
Continuously evolving and expanding his roster as on of the UK’s most versatile and creative artists, Guvna B has an upcoming book tour in November for his second novel ‘Unspoken’. The opus unpacks important discussions around toxic masculinity, processing loss and mental health. Singer, songwriter, rapper, and author? Guvna B is quite the renaissance man.
We asked the east London creative to pick 10Trax that are inspiring him right now. Jump in!
"Like Royalty" by Protoje Ft Popcaan
"I find this song really uplifting and it's filled with hope. Considering the year we've had, it's one that keeps me focused on better days ahead."
"Parasols" by Abimaro
"The soundscape of this record is incredible. The melodies fit the production perfectly and it's just wicked vibes."
"Deep Reverence" by Big Sean Ft Nipsey Hustle
"It's sick when you hear new Nipsey verses after his death because he lives on through his music. Also Big Sean in my opinion delivers the verse of the year and talks about some real vulnerable stuff."
"Dark Side Riddim" by Ezra Collective
"I've really missed live music so I'm grateful to Ezra Collective for releasing this. Makes me want to go catch a live set asap!|
"Cry" by Swiss feat. Sharifa
"An oldie but a goodie. When the Black Lives Matter movement gained momentum, I went back to this song. An absolute classic."
"No Tomorrow" by Brandy
"Brandy is one of my favourite vocalists of all time so I was gassed when she dropped a new album. This tune just reminds me that when it comes to vocals, she's different levels."
"Only One of You" by Barney Artist Ft Joel Baker
"My dad passed away a few years ago and I love tunes that talk about loss because I think it normalises grief. Love Joel Baker's verse on this and the whole song is just sick."
"May I Have This Dance" by Francis & The Lights feat. Chance The Rapper
"This song has been out for a while but I connected with it differently after spending so much time with my wife and son during lockdown. It reminds me of what's important."
"Can’t Hold We Down" by Kano Ft Popcaan
"Not sure if I need to say much. If you need an anthem for these times, there's not much better than this."
