Rapper highlights the sacrifices made by previous generations in this commentary on the challenges of modern British life.
Taken from Bashy’s (real name Ashley Thomas) critically acclaimed album Being Poor Is Expensive, the expert rapper dissects the disparities in British society on new single Made In Britain.
Using music as a vehicle, the lyricist navigates the difficult realities of life in the country for the black community.
What’s It Like?
The video opens with a clip of his grandmother, Thelma Stanbury, detailing how she wishes nothing but happiness for her grandchildren.
Related Content: Bashy Drops New Single ‘Being Poor Is Expensive’
Born in Jamaica she came to the UK as part of the Windrush Generation and in the video, is played by Gaynair Thorpe, as they explore their West London community.
Reflecting on the song’s meaning, Bashy said it is a “…homage to the Windrush generation, the people that came before us and their sacrifice. A celebration of the brave people who left all they knew, to go to a sometimes hostile environment but persevered so that future generations of their family could have opportunity.”
Documentary Style Music Video
It’s as raw as they come and takes us on a sensory exploration of the area which helps non-British viewers to be immersed within everyday London life.
There is a purpose behind such matter-of-fact visuals. It captures the transition from Thelma’s motivations for her family to the present-day generations, who may or may not comprehend this sacrifice. The artist conveys this in a statement: “So much has changed, some things have remained the same but ultimately it’s a celebration of their legacy, my parent’s generation, my generation and new generations; everything contributes to the legacy from food to language, music, culture and achievements.”
Compositionally, this authentic appeal helps articulate the intrinsic ideas threaded within the rapper’s delivery. From allowing the edges of the walls to appear as the rapper dispatches each verse, to a shift from daylight to nighttime hours, it all contributes to the narrative we are being presented.
Verdict and Where To Hear It
Sampling Back To Africa by Aswad, the song is sonically positioned in a conversational tone.
Its call to action urges listeners to understand the complexities of the story, driven by the artist’s calculated delivery and crafted lyrical response.
Made In Britain provides a much-needed voice, concisely contextualising important issues. Its production, despite being a stylistic choice that highlights music culture, also underscores the normalisation of difficult topics when paired with powerful lines such as:
“The legacy, what you telling me, man,
Was made in Britain, man was raised,
In Britain but I feel like the enemy.”
Overall, it foreshadows that the same struggles remain, and that the road ahead for many may still need to be paved.
You can stream Made In Britain on Spotify and Apple Music and the album’s vinyl can be purchased via HMV at £27.99.
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