Sheffield rapper-producer Young Eman returns this June with “misfit life,” the latest in a run of singles ahead of his upcoming album BINE. The new track arrives six months after his breakout hit “popstar in da bits,” which propelled him into a brief spotlight of internet virality and garnered millions of streams for its distinct, mischievous portrayal of U.K. adolescence.
While his peers in the U.K. scene seem split between rage rap cult figures and electronic-leaning indie influences, Eman’s music defies easy categorization. In that sense, he shares a creative spirit with fellow British mavericks like Jim Legxacy and skaiwater.
That same thoughtful attention to detail permeates his lyrics, where Eman revels in the grit and grime of his small-city hometown: “Vodka, drugs in my veins / Misfit, know they wanna take us away.” The track’s aggressive 808s and delinquent lyrics almost make you lose sight of an otherwise beautifully elegant melody. At times, the rich instrumental runs paired with Eman’s playful, yelping vocals could give Trippie Redd a run for his money. There is a magnetic charm to his delivery; his catchiest couplets echo the intensity of Stormzy or Skepta, albeit with a distinct, restless edge.
@concertswithseb Young Eman talks about BINE #ukunderground #youngeman #ukundergroundrap #ukug @YOUNG EMAN ♬ original sound – ConcertswithSeb
Between “misfit life,” “páris,” and “popstar in da bits,” it seems likely that BINE will arrive sooner than later, though no official release date has been confirmed. When fans recently stopped Eman on the street, he assured them the project was coming “soon.” In the meantime, listeners can explore his recent album leaks on the artist’s official website.
