Ramz has had one of the most interesting character arcs in the UK music game. Breaking onto the scene with the omnipresent smash that was “Barking”, it hasn’t been the straightforward path you may expect since. Five years and 83 million views later, the song is still an undeniable staple of commercial success, but the burden of a smash hit can weigh heavy.
As a result, Ramz has had somewhat of an introspective period since. Taking time to think about his music, his image, and ultimately who he is as a person seems to have done him well though. Tracks like “Brixton to Oxford Circus”, and “Purple Flows” demonstrated his versatility and that at his core he’s a real spitter with things to say. “Cigarettes & Roses”, taken from his recent i miss you ramone EP, is another reminder of his top-tier talent.
“Cigarettes & Roses” sees Ramz fly to a sunny destination abroad, celebrating his success and progress but of course also taking the time to reflect. Rapping with signature poise and elegance, he opens with “Heartbreak made me lose focus / I feel like I never made progress”.
Immediately the tone is set and combined with a triumphant 169 production, you’re immediately transported into the mind of Ramz who’s in top form, delivering quotable after quotable whilst demonstrating with ease his prowess with flows and delivery.
Be sure to take in the video for “Cigarettes & Roses” above!