Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

Proklaim – LIFE (2024)

A trailblazer in the hip-hop music scene, rapper Proklaim carves a niche as one of the more experimental artists who pushes the boundaries of the genre. With his single ‘FOR YOU’, Proklaim flavoured hip-hop with Afrobeat, and in ‘POPPIN’ he wove Amapiano with his rapper vibe. Eager for people to explore cultures, celebrate life and enjoy each moment to its fullest, the Namibia-based musician is profound, powerful and pleasingly playful. Come dance along to his tunes as we delve into his single ‘LIFE’.

Influenced by artists such as Bob Marley, Wu-Tang Clan, Tupac, Lauryn Hill and more, Proklaim’s music is innovative, original and highly intriguing. Exploring vintage funk sounds and EDM beats, ‘LIFE’ is a novelty song; no, not the pop culture gimmicky type novelty but rather a genuinely inimitable gem of eclectic experimentalism. Following his well-received single ‘PROMISED LAND’, ‘LIFE’ retains Proklaim’s rap but weaves the hip-hop vibe into a concoction of electronic pop and classic funk.

Proklaim explains that “writing songs is a passion and I believe song in itself has the power to ignite social consciousness and societal shifts” – this is one of the reasons why his moving melodies are even more intricate through their complex meaning. One to celebrate life, his tunes are always motivational tackling self-growth and inspiration. In ‘LIFE’, Proklaim explores societal perception and how finding individuality prompts greater self-growth, discovery and understanding.

Proklaim’s distinctive vocals make him stand out; however, one of his lyrical quirks stamps a signature style – the consistently used term “yebo”. As a South African, the Zulu word evokes feelings of familiarity and raw sentiment for me; then again, it’s more than just a word for Proklaim. Translated to “yes”, this simple four-letter word enhances his desire to have us say yes to the world, celebrate our being and enjoy our lives.


In addition to his single, Proklaim released an official lyric video for ‘LIFE’. You can view the video below and on his YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.


THIS VIDEO USES LIGHTING EFFECTS THAT CAN TRIGGER SEIZURES IN PEOPLE WITH PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPSY
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED

Find out more about Proklaim on his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator


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