BERNA: The London rapper delivers with a hard-hitting 'East2Essex' album
Forget what’s brewing locally, I’m on an overseas flex these days and what better way to get into the zone than listening to hip-hop artist BERNA? It’s a full-fledged project loaded with anthems coming in the form of an East2Essex release.
BERNA delivers with his ‘East2Essex’ studio album
Just under 10 tracks in total, BERNA takes advantage of the limited selection with anthems like his Tiny Boost-featured ‘Know Me’ anthem plus ‘Silly Billy.’ Completely lose yourself in the audio flexing.
On 12th September, Essex-based rapper Berna drops his highly anticipated mixtape, ‘East2Essex’, alongside the video for lead single, “Know Me,” featuring Peckham Rap veteran Tiny Boost. This 9-track project, which includes previously released hits “Straight Outta Newham,” “Rap Saved Me,” and “Different” (featuring rising North West rapper Glizz), marks Berna’s dynamic return, filled with fresh inspiration and energy. Known for his signature flow, raw authenticity, and high-octane performances, Berna delivers on expectations with ‘East2Essex, blending Rap, Drill, and Afro influences into a vibrant and diverse sound. The mixtape is packed with bangers such as “Straight Outta Newham,” “Forty,” and the standout “Mood,” all of which capture the electric tone of the project. On the more introspective side, tracks like “Rap Saved Me,” “E.A.S.T,” and “Silly Billy” dive into Berna’s journey and mindset, showcasing his growth and emotional depth. These songs reveal a maturing artist with vulnerable storytelling that adds layers to his reputation. The vibe shifts again with smoother tracks like “Greece” and “Different,” highlighting Berna’s evolving sound and versatility. Clocking in at 25 minutes, ‘East2Essex is a full, emotional journey. Each track is filled with energy, emotion, and raw storytelling, giving fans an unfiltered glimpse into Berna’s world. Speaking on the mixtape, Berna said:
“Growing up in East London with my mum & 6 siblings we learned never to take anything for granted as we made do with so little & to ALWAYS look out for each other. I never knew how drastically my life would change when we left Newham. After my big brother died, everything changed. I went from being a bubbly, academic, aspiring footballer to a soulless shell of my former self…then something changed. My new surroundings encouraged me to want better for myself. God illuminated my entire world and I found new purpose. From dark to light, bad to good, rags to riches…East2Essex.”
Born in Cape Town and raised in East London by his Congolese mother, Berna now calls Essex home. At just 16, he rose to fame when his viral Bl@ckbox freestyle took the internet by storm, making him the youngest rapper to grace the legendary Fire In The Booth stage. His rapid rise was fueled by his unique flow and sharp wordplay, earning him a respected position in the rap scene at an early age. Known for his fearless freestyles, Berna has left a lasting impact on iconic platforms like Bl@ckbox, Daily Duppy, Link Up TV and Mad About Bars. This week, his reputation was further solidified when he revisited Link Up TV’s "Behind Barz" freestyle session, in which he originally appeared six years prior. Now 25, Berna has transitioned into a place of confidence and contentment, channelling the challenges of his journey into his music. Influenced by rap heavyweights like Meek Mill, 50 Cent, Chip, Skepta, and Ghetts, his evolution as an artist is a testament to his roots. He describes himself as “an older man trapped in a young man’s body,” a nod to the wisdom and maturity reflected in his sound.
Berna set an impressive standard with his debut EP, Poor Little Rich Kid, released in 2020, which racked up over 1 million plays within its first month. His latest mixtape further elevates his trajectory, featuring collaborations with Tiny Boost and Glizz, adding to a list of notable collaborations that already include Blanco, Kwengface, Suspect OTB, and the late Jevon. Bursting onto the scene at just 16, Berna has consistently showcased his growth and vulnerability through his music. Tracks like ‘Rap Saved Me’, ‘E.A.S.T.’, and ‘Silly Billy’ highlight how deep he can go with his storytelling, clearly evolving from his earlier reputation as a freestyle rapper. Now with ‘East2Essex’, Berna reflects on his transformation from a troubled teen in East London to a mature artist living in Essex, unflinchingly recounting the highs and lows of his journey. His ability to weave personal experiences into intricate wordplay sets him apart. In a thriving UK rap scene, Berna’s unique energy and perspective ensure plenty of space for him to shine.
