Drela & Stonebwoy bring fire in "Dem Dead"

"Dem Dead" is a proud, unifying, cross-cultural dance anthem that celebrates strength and perseverance, delivered on an infectious groove by rising Naija Afrobeats prospect Drela, in conjunction with Dancehall kingpin Stonebwoy. The title "Dem Dead," a West African Pidgin expression that translates to "They're finished," has become an exultant war cry in the face of a world that can at times feel chaotic and unforgiving. "Dem Dead" is a rallying cry, a triumphal march through hard times soundtracked with head-nodding bops and anthemic fist-pumps.

"Dem Dead" has also evolved from a street anthem to an international hit, captivating DJs, playlisters, and fans worldwide who crave the uncut rawness that only this tune possesses. Driven by a pumping rhythm section that feels organic and alive, percussion crashes that act as insistent interlopers interweave with punchy melodies, providing an irresistible backdrop that's so hypnotic. Drela's rough-and-raw, melodic snarl is a Match Made In Heaven for this Nigerian youth's mind state: raw as hell, full of atitude, ready to run things. 

What's notable about "Dem Dead" is that it achieves this organically, marrying two genres with overlapping Afro-diasporic lineages but distinct signatures: Afrobeats and Dancehall. The production is a patchwork of traditional African drums and contemporary synths, with vocal back-and-forths that effortlessly sprawl across continents, the kind of cut that could play in Lagos, Kingston, and a London bedroom. 

Drela & Stonebwoy's quick push in Afrobeats becomes a meeting point for Stonebwoy, drawing on his many years of Dancehall experience, and Drela and the veteran musician create a record that is not only infectious but also resounding. If you're going to edge closer to a rhythm that refuses to die, Drela and Stonebwoy's "Dem Dead" has a place somewhere in your playlist. And when you think you've sussed it in the vibe stakes, we then have Stonebwoy dropping in, his impassioned verse adding some serious big-hitter power, that shakes the song into the international stratosphere.

Follow Drela on: Instagram | Facebook