Stormzy is Among Britain’s Most Renowned Contemporary Musicians
The Dean’s Curriculum Taskforce of the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music recently invited students and faculty to a special engagement and conversation on contemporary musicianship with Jacob Collier. Recognized as one of the most gifted young artists of modern times, 29-year-old Jacob Collier boasts an impressive list of achievements, including five Grammy wins and 12 Grammy nominations. His collaborations span a wide range of artists, from UK icons like Coldplay and Stormzy to American superstars such as SZA, Alicia Keys, and John Mayer. Collier’s distinct musical identity has made him a sought-after collaborator, cementing his status as a conduit for a generation’s creativity. His latest project, the 4 Volume epic Djesse series, is set to conclude with Volume 4, scheduled for release on February 29th, 2024. Recent singles from this series include “Little Blue,” featuring Brandi Carlile, and “Witness Me,” featuring Shawn Mendes, Stormzy, and Kirk Franklin.
Rap in the UK began in the early 80s, initially influenced by American accents. However, it wasn’t until the mid-eighties, with the emergence of the London Posse, that UK rap began to develop its own voice. Since then, UK rap has evolved through various iterations and influences, solidifying itself as a major part of the Hip Hop canon. Among the contemporary UK rap scene, Stormzy stands out as one of the most influential figures.
Stormzy’s impact on the UK rap scene is undeniable. His vulnerability and ability to express complex emotions have brought him into the musical consciousness well beyond the UK. While he can deliver powerful tracks like “Vossi Bop,” his true strength lies in his ability to convey love and emotion, as seen in “Hide & Seek.” Stormzy’s flow is characterized by his use of space, allowing his words to breathe and his emotions to resonate with listeners.
Stormzy’s influence extends beyond his music. He has become a cultural icon, known for his activism and philanthropy. His scholarship program for Black students at the University of Cambridge is just one example of his commitment to social justice. Stormzy’s success has paved the way for other UK rappers, helping to elevate the genre on a global scale.
In 2020, Stormzy was among the artists competing for the prestigious Mercury Prize, alongside other notable musicians like Dua Lipa, Laura Marling, and Michael Kiwanuka. The Mercury Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in British pop, celebrating artistic merit and supporting music as an art form. Stormzy’s nomination for his album “Heavy is the Head” was a testament to his artistic and commercial success.
Stormzy’s journey to becoming one of Britain’s most renowned contemporary musicians has been marked by numerous achievements and accolades. His ability to connect with audiences through his music and his commitment to social causes have solidified his place in the music industry. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Stormzy’s influence on the UK rap scene and beyond is sure to endure.
Source: The Guardian, UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music
