South-London-based rapper XII 44 (pronounced 12:44/ twelve forty-four) closes out 2024 on a high note with his celebratory single "Drippy." The bass-heavy anthemic tune sees him bringing in the East London-based grime veteran Griminal to help with vocal duties. The production has the quintessential elements ranging from distorted and stretched bass arrangements, snapping downtempo drum grooves, and a moody pad riff which creates the perfect canvas for XII 44's expressive flows and engaging storytelling. While the chorus evokes the spirit of celebration, XII 44 goes beyond the superficial rhymes to talk about his journey and the hurdles he had to overcome to be successful. Lines like "And these tables keep on turning and these bridges keep on burning/But you keep bragging 'bout the Germans" underscore the underlying lessons he wants to give to the youth who think life is all about the glamour and glitz. Griminal closes it out in the last verse with his laidback, nonchalant flow laced with street-savvy gems.
The song comes with a performance-styled visual that shows XII 44 in his element and a quick cameo from Griminal with clips from his younger days as a rapper making his way up the ranks.
The South London artist is now ready to take his career to the next level as he welcomes “Drippy” as the first installment of what will be a consistent string of releases accompanied by features from the likes of Flirta D, Mercston, Lil Narsty, Riko Dan, Black Rose, More Fire Crew and more, leading up to the release of his debut mixtape next year.
Stream on all DSPs here.
Connect with XII 44 : Spotify | TikTok | Youtube | Apple Music | Instagram