Kojo Funds is due to release his highly anticipated mixtape Golden Boy this Friday. In preparation for the tape which will feature collaborations with massive names including Yxng Bane, Bugzy Malone, Giggs, Kranium and Abra Cadabra, we take a look at seven moments that defined Kojo’s career and helped take afro swing to new heights. The exploding genre taking over the UK music scene illustrates the multiculturalism of London by merging bashment, afrobeats, grime, trap and pop.
1) Kojo releases “Robbery”
In 2016, The East London artist released “Robbery”, the wavy track about dealing with ops and street warfare. Kojo is unique in contrasting the dark narrative of the lyrics over a slow and upbeat Afrobeats instrumental. The track produced by GA was a hit even without visuals and remains a fan favourite.
2) Kojo Funds and Yxng Bane drink “Fine Wine”
Summer of 2016 saw Kojo link up with fellow star Yxng Bane for the massive tune “Fine Wine”.
Both artists bring their autotuned vocals and smooth lyrics to the track which has become a staple in raves. “Fine Wine” became an anthem for girls and the lyrics appeared on many Instagram captions that summer.
The wavy collaboration was a massive success for both Bane and Kojo with the song receiving a Silver BPI certification. “Fine Wine” also received a GRM exclusive remix featuring WSTRN, check that one out here.
3) “Dun Talkin’ and entry on to Urban Radio
It would be wrong to not include Kojo’s link up with North London rapper Abra Cadabra for their insane collaboration “Dun Talkin”.
The track received heavy airplay on urban radio and put Kojo on the mainstream radar as one of the pioneers of the afro swing sound.
“Dun Talkin” touched on darker themes to “Fine Wine”, much like Kojo’s track “Warning”. The sing-along track about pagans and wastemen samples the 90s dancehall hit “Informer” by Canadian artist Snow.
“Warning” mixes Afrobeat style melodies with the pace and energy of a hip-hop instrumental. The many elements and synergy of different styles within “Warning” perfectly encompasses the fluidity and versatility of Kojo Funds’ sound.
4) Kojo tops the charts
In 2017, Kojo linked with Mabel for her breakout single “Finders Keepers”. The slow pop track which features Mabel’s soft and slow vocals received an opening verse from Kojo (which left many fans clamouring for more).
The single peaked at number 8 on the UK charts and both artists performed the track together several times including on the BBC’s Sounds Like Friday Night, the 1Xtra Live Lounge and at Capital’s Jingle Bell Ball.
Since “Finders Keepers”, Kojo has collaborated with Raye for their Craig David sampling tune “Check”. Following his self-built buzz and entry into the mainstream, Kojo inked a record deal with a major label who are set to release his upcoming mixtape.
5) Award shows and industry recognition
The same year “Finders Keepers” dropped, Kojo Funds was nominated as Best Newcomer for the coveted MOBO Awards. Kojo would also go on to receive three Rated Awards nominations including Artist of the Year.
6) 2018 Rated Awards Performance
Kojo performed at this year’s Rated Awards which saw a highlights programme broadcast on Channel 4 which you can check out here. The East London artist gave stellar performances of his recent singles ‘Who am I” and “Stallin” equipped with stunning stage design and lighting.
By performing with such professionalism and choreography, Kojo marked himself as a frontman for the afro swing sound through both his musical offerings and his epic live performances.
7) The highly anticipated release of Golden Boy
Golden Boy will feature “Who Am I”, Kojo’s collab with Bugzy Malone which signals that the artist has been experimenting with new sounds. There is a clear house influence on the track; perhaps inspired by the music scene of Bugzy’s hometown, Manchester.
“My Wish” featuring dancehall artist Kranium will also appear on the project as well as the career-changing “Dun Talkin”.
As a pioneer of the afro swing sound and with Kojo being an artist with a clear talent for experimenting with different genres when he chooses to, we’re sure that Golden Boy will be worth the wait. Be sure to check out the full track-list right here.