UK star Not3s has marked his defining return with a new track titled ‘So Far Gone’, featuring Nigerian Afrobeats artist Mayorkun representing a new phase in the influential artist’s career, inspired by deep discovery and connection to his Nigerian roots.
Although Not3s was born and raised in Hackney, his upbringing was steeped in Nigerian culture at home. This tradition has undoubtedly shaped him both as an individual and as an artist. During a trip to Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti’s grave in Lagos, Not3s was told by Grammy-nominated Nigerian kingmaker Bankulli that he belonged in Lagos and that he should continue the Afrobeats story as a ‘son of the soil’.
‘So Far Gone’ is a feel-good, Amapiano & Afrobeats influenced track that sees Not3s deliver complex and catchy melodies on the beat, which is full of percussive 808s and syncopated percussion lines. Mayorkun showcases his remarkable vocal range with an infectious chorus. The vibrant music video was filmed in Nigeria and features stunning headshots and beautiful Nigerian dress.
Not3s visited Nigeria for the first time in 2017, quickly feeling at home and gaining valuable insight into his Nigerian roots. Musically, he has always been connected to his heritage, and his first few releases on Soundcloud paid homage to his culture with lyrics incorporating Yoruba slang. This era weaves together Not3s’ musical tapestry both past and present, reiterating that he makes music on his own terms with a sound that sits in a world of its own.
With a string of chart hits such as ‘Addison Lee’ and ‘Aladdin’, Not3s quickly made a name for himself by the age of 19, dominating the UK charts and forming a foundation for the country-wide Afro-Swing movement. Now 25, and six years on from his debut album Take Not3s, he has a matured perspective on his artistry. This new era of Not3s taps into his most authentic self, refining himself as a musician and creating music that truly resonates with his personal journey and cultural roots.
‘So Far Gone’ is an exciting glimpse into what’s to come, representing just the beginning of an exciting new phase in Not3s’ career.
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