Skepta Blazes Back with "Gas Me Up (Diligent)": A Grime Revival Anthem
Skepta, the Tottenham-born grime pioneer, has returned with a vengeance in 2024. His latest single, "Gas Me Up (Diligent)," is a potent cocktail of classic grime grit and introspective lyricism, served over a smooth, synth-driven beat by producer Cardo. The track serves as a powerful reassertion of Skepta's dominance in the scene and a tantalizing appetizer for his upcoming album, Knife and Fork.
Skepta Reclaims His Throne with Gas Me Up
From the opening bars, Skepta commands attention with his signature deep, gravelly flow. He eschews the braggadocious posturing often associated with grime, instead opting for a more measured and reflective approach. Lines like "We don't get angry, we don't get even/We don't talk about beef/By the way, did I mention I just turned vegan?" showcase a newfound maturity and self-awareness, while still retaining the sharp wit and wordplay that made him a grime icon.
Cardo's Beat: A Modern Twist on a Grime Staple
Cardo's production on "Gas Me Up (Diligent)" is a revelation. The smooth, almost jazzy synth chords provide a surprisingly fitting backdrop for Skepta's gritty bars. It's a subtle departure from the traditional grime sound, but one that retains the genre's raw energy and immediacy. This fusion of styles creates a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern.
An Anthem for the Diligent
More than just a banger, "Gas Me Up (Diligent)" is an anthem for anyone who has ever chased a dream against all odds. Skepta's lyrics celebrate hard work, dedication, and perseverance, reminding listeners that success is never handed on a silver platter. It's a call to action to put in the work, stay focused, and eventually, reap the rewards.
"Gas Me Up (Diligent)" is a sonic triumph. It's a track that both honors Skepta's grime roots and pushes the boundaries of the genre. With its infectious energy, introspective lyrics, and genre-bending production, "Gas Me Up (Diligent)" is a surefire contender for grime anthem of the year. It's a powerful reminder that Skepta is still at the top of his game, and Knife and Fork is a project we should all be eagerly awaiting.
Listen to Gas Me Up (Diligent)
Skepta Gas Me Up (Diligent) Meaning
"Skepta Gas Me Up" is a celebratory anthem where Skepta confidently reflects on his success and lifestyle. The intro sets a carefree tone, emphasizing camaraderie with friends and the constancy of core values despite material changes. In the verse, Skepta tackles themes of authenticity, questioning online bravado versus real-life encounters, and delving into the complexities of success and jealousy in his environment. The chorus reinforces the joyous atmosphere, with Skepta expressing the need for encouragement and support ("gas me up") while enjoying the company of friends and high-end vehicles. The outro reiterates the theme of revelry and emphasizes transparent communication. Overall, the song captures Skepta's self-assuredness, triumphs in the music industry, and a desire for genuine connections amidst the challenges of fame and success.
Skepta Gas Me Up (Diligent) Lyrics
[Intro]
(I need a card that don't decline, every day's a party)
Prr, prr
(I'm with my brothers and my choppers and my chargies)
Big Smoke
(And we're still the same, ain't nothin' changed except the car keys)
Ice
Greaze
Yeah
[Verse]
We don't get angry, we don't get even (Nah)
We don't talk about beef, by the way, did I mention I just turned vegan? (Ha)
I need the pagans breathing so they can see my new Top Boy season
I need the pagans alive so they can now see that it's still my time
I don't know why they act tough onlinе, I see them outside and they ain't say nada (Huh?)
Soon as you say, "On sight," wе lookin' for you like some vintage Prada
Lookin' for you like some archive pieces (Pow-pow, pow)
Jealousy in the ends, they hate when you become successful
But in the trenches, we were all friends
How long we tryna pretend?
I know they love to see me do well
But only when it benefits them
Is it 'bout money or is it 'bout girls? (Huh?)
Either way, I'm threatening men (Greaze)
C just text, said, "Diligent," yeah, 'cause the outfit's making sense
I told him it cost to be the boss and to be this fly is the same expense (Pow-pow, pow)
And we just went triple platinum, check the digits (Yeah, yeah)
Most these brothers is tired and washed up, bro, but they won't admit it
How many times have I dumbed it down to make a boy feel like he's on my level? (Bow)
And I ain't talkin' about kettles, I ain't talkin' about precious metals (Nah, nah)
I'm talkin' about takin' a year out, still I can't see no competition
Can't see anyone threatenin' my position (Ha)
Told D I need a chauffer 'cause I'm so driven, should be in the backseat with both hands free (Skrrt-skrrt)
Right hand makin' plays on the iPhone, and my left hand grippin' on the BB, it's me (Prr)
Praise the Lord for the life I'm livin'
Big Smoke Records, alive and kickin'
Dinner in Milan with the finest women
And none of us sexin', nah, I'm just chillin' (Yeah)
Your taste level is my waste level
You ain't ever heard of the wine I'm sippin'
Heard you say this year's your year, then you better hurry up, boy, time is tickin'
[Chorus]
I need a card that don't decline, every day's a party
I'm with my brothers and my choppers and my chargies
And we're still the same, ain't nothin' changed except the car keys
Vroom, vroom
I told her to gas me up, I need the gasoline
I'm tryna slide it in, just like a cash machine
I made a milli on this phone with a cracked screen
So don't beat around a bush, please, say what you mean (Greaze)
[Outro]
Every day's a party
I'm with my brothers and my choppers and my chargies
Ain't nothin' changed except the car keys
I told her to gas me up, I need the gasoline
I'm tryna slide it in, just like a cash machine
I made a milli on this phone with a cracked screen
So don't beat around a bush, please, say what you mean