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Headie One ft AJ Tracey & Stormzy: Single Review
- Akachi Priscilla Mbakwe
- Aug 21, 2020
- 1 min read
Updated: Jan 9, 2022
Ain’t It Different was considered a culture-shifting moment for the UK scene with it being the first collaboration from its biggest stars, Headie One, Stormzy and Aj Tracey. But in an attempt to combine all of the rapper’s unique sounds, the song becomes a melodic melting pot in which no distinct sound can be heard. The beat falls awkwardly on the ear, with each rapper’s flow hiccuping and spluttering in attempt to keep up with the song’s accelerated BPM. Despite this, Headie, Stormzy and AJ deliver braggadocious verses, sneering at their haters and reminding them why they’re the best.
Not every song on an album will be a favourite or a chart topper. Regardless of one’s feelings towards this song, Headie fans and music fans like myself are eagerly awaiting his debut album set for release later this year.
The collaboration between Headie One, Stormzy, and AJ Tracey feels a lot like Crossy Road — each rapper’s verse is a lane to navigate, and when they all land their flows correctly, it creates a chaotic but thrilling musical journey.
The attempt to merge three distinct styles results in a track where no single sonic identity fully stands out. The accelerated BPM and beat create a sense of awkwardness, Geometry Dash seemingly disrupting the rappers’ flows rather than complementing them.