Kofi Stone, the versatile rapper hailing from East London and raised in Birmingham, unveils his latest single and video 'Black Joy', a powerful celebration of black culture and resilience.
Following his February release 'May Sound Crazy' featuring the late great Benjamin Zephaniah, Kofi Stone continues to captivate audiences with his deeply layered storytelling and introspective lyricism.
Produced by Joice, 'Black Joy' serves as a heartfelt ode to Hip-hop's golden era while offering a straight-talking reflection of Kofi's upbringing. The track delves into themes rooted in Kofi's personal experiences, touching on adversity, celebration, and the unique experiences that bond the black community together.
The accompanying video, co-directed by Ade Adesina, Sena Dzotsi, and Kofi Stone himself, takes viewers on a journey through the black family home, capturing tender moments of new life, jubilant celebrations of graduations, heartfelt vows in marriages, and poignant farewells in death. Each scene serves as a testament to the richness of black life and the community's resilience.
"I wrote this song because I wanted to celebrate black culture and document joyful experiences," Kofi shares. "Experiences that often act as a safe space for the black community, and an escape from life’s harsh realities. I wanted to paint a positive picture for younger black kids, who like myself growing up, are not regularly exposed to positive black messages."
Inspired by his Grandad's poetry and influenced by musical icons like Lupe Fiasco, Common, and Kano, Kofi Stone has emerged as one of the most exciting voices in UK Hip-hop. His debut album 'Nobody Cares Till Everybody Does' showcased his talent and garnered critical acclaim, featuring collaborations with BRIT-nominated musician Loyle Carner and Irish songwriter Maverick Sabre.
With multiple sold-out headline shows, festival appearances worldwide, and collaborations with renowned artists, Kofi Stone continues to make his mark on the music scene. As he releases 'Black Joy', expect nothing short of a triumphant 2024 for this rising star.
