In a thrilling New Year’s Day revelation, the iconic figure of the grime scene, Skepta, set the internet ablaze with the announcement of his upcoming sixth solo album, the eagerly anticipated “Knife and Fork.” After a hiatus that left fans eagerly awaiting new music, Skepta expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support, acknowledging the flood of messages across social media platforms.
Reflecting on his absence, Skepta stated, “It’s been years since I dropped my last album, and I want to thank you for all the love during my hiatus. I’ve seen the messages, tweets, and TikToks, [and] I’m truly grateful that my music is still resonating with the world, even in my absence.” This heartfelt acknowledgment highlights the profound impact Skepta’s music has had on fans globally.
To build anticipation for “Knife and Fork,” Skepta is set to drop the album’s lead single, “Gas Me Up (Diligent),” on January 26. The announcement also served as a reminder for fans to mark their calendars for the inaugural Big Smoke Festival in London’s Crystal Palace Park this July, where Skepta is scheduled to perform both his solo hits and tracks from Más Tiempo, a dynamic house project with Boy Better Know collaborator Jammer.
Looking back at Skepta’s illustrious career, the Tottenham talent’s 2019 release, “Ignorance Is Bliss,” showcased a 13-song ensemble featuring collaborations with J Hus, Nafe Smallz, Key!, Lancey Foux, Wizkid, and more. The album soared to No. 2 on the U.K. Albums chart and earned a well-deserved gold certification.
In the interim, Skepta has been far from idle, teaming up with Chip and Young Adz for the collaborative masterpiece “Insomnia” and satisfying fans with the EP “All In.” His musical prowess resonated across a plethora of tracks, from AJ Tracey’s “Kiss and Tell” to Kid Cudi’s “Show Out,” showcasing the artist’s versatility and influence across various genres.
As the countdown begins for the release of “Knife and Fork,” Skepta’s return to the spotlight promises not only a musical feast for fans but also a continuation of his legacy as a trailblazer in the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop and beyond.
