Chip has linked up with Manchester’s Aitch for a new single, “GTTB,” released through Idris Elba‘s independent label 7Wallace. The track is the first release under 7Wallace’s Here To Stay series — a project built around celebrating the architects of UK rap and the artists still actively shaping it.
Chip is the first artist featured in the series, which feels like a considered choice, as the Tottenham emcee has been a constant presence in the UK scene for two decades, and earlier this year picked up the MOBO Award for Best Grime Act in March. Here To Stay is not a nostalgia exercise, it is built around artists who are still in it, still relevant, still pushing.
The production on “GTTB” leans into grime’s DNA without getting stuck there. The sample work nods to the genre’s golden era while the energy sits firmly in the present, which is more or less the point the whole project is trying to make.
Chip spoke about how the collaboration with Elba came together: “I first met Idris back in 2012 when we were both in ATL for a season. He’s always encouraged me and made it clear that he feels I’m one of the best artists to ever do it worldwide, so it’s an honour to be a part of the Here To Stay campaign.” He continued: “The second I was approached, I just wanted to deliver some quality music that represents me, 20 years into my legacy. Grime has produced some of the best, most versatile artists the world has ever seen and I want to reinforce that with this project. Beats, bars, melodies — my language.”
The official music video is available above.
Education: Computer Network Engineering, Computer Desktop Administration
Fave Song: Destiny's Child 'Dangerously in love'
Fave Colour: Grey.
With £1m what would you do: I would do my part to provide opportunities to the less fortunate. Then do my best to change the world in my own way through sports and talent building.
