Pound Signs

Fresh from his BRIT Awards extravaganza, the buccaneering King of Drill Headie One drops off a movie in ‘Pound Signs’.

The Tottenham rapper has, over the past few years, become one of the most popular and prolific artists in the UK. The OFB affiliate has collaborated with some of the biggest names in rap, the likes of Drake, Skepta and Stormzy, and topped the UK charts with his sprawling, superlative 2020 debut album ‘Edna’, which was fittingly dedicated to his late mother. On this new single, his first solo drop since the album, Headie returns to his drilliest roots with combustible production and potent lyrical prowess. 

The robust and hard hitting production is credited to Likkle Dotz and Es, who bring out ominous synths and some of the filthiest drums heard this year. Certainly one of drills glossiest artist, Headie’s nonchalant delivery juxtaposes the booming, rambunctious sonic palette to offer his unique take on the popular genre. The track opens with a suitable excerpt from a classic interview with the legendary Bob Marley discussing how financial wealth and mobility does not equate to true riches or personal fulfilment.

The accompanying video is directed by rising star DAPS, and is a true cinematic experience. The focused narrative is inspired by Tarrantino classic ‘Reservoir Dogs’ and sees Headie enacting the role of a troublesome transgressor. 

Consistent and compelling, we can merely marvel at Headie One’s individuality, prominence and ability to stand out in the most overly condensed UK music scene since Britpop.