Jeshi's much-needed Universal Credit debut drops in 72 hours

Memorial Day Weekend is close-close and what better way to get excited than gearing up for Jeshi’s new studio album? Even better, how about gearing up for his official debut release?

Jeshi’s new Universal Credit album drops Friday

Barring any delays, the world will finally get to hear a full-length effort from the international hip-hop artist. The project comes stacked with anthems and some notably dope singles like his hit ‘Protein’ record.

This Friday May 27th, East London’s Jeshi proudly releases Universal Credit, his long-awaited debut album, on Because Music. The LP was preceded by a string of hype-building singles: “Protein” feat. Obongjayar, “3210” (along with the Ross From Friends remix), “Generation," “Hit By A Train,” and “Sick.”

On Universal Credit, Jeshi captures the young UK condition with his crisply enunciated English accent, a youth prophet for a new decade. For an album inspired by financial hardship and largely composed during the pandemic, the project can be as gloomy as its inspirations, yet at other turns becomes quite humorous and hopeful. Described by the Guardian as “ rival[ing] the Streets’ Original Pirate Material or Dizzee Rascal’s Boy in Da Corner for frank, sometimes bleak but often funny framings of UK city life,” its contents are considerate and insightful in its depictions of complicated realities.

Jeshi’s explanation for what you’re going to hear

No idea of what’s brewing for Jeshi? Just check out what he feels his new project is going to mean.

“People are often in a situation where they’re a couple of decisions away from tricky situations that are no fault of their own,” he says. “Life is difficult for everyone. It’s the pick of the draw.” 

And what else?

By focusing on the immediate world around him, including his own memories of being broke and unlucky, or simply trying to make sense of an unforgiving world, Jeshi has been able to make a wider statement. “I didn’t want it to be me saying ‘Look at the state of the country,’ he argues. “There’s no political messaging on there. I just wanted to take the phrase ‘Universal Credit’ and make it empowering. Putting some pride into words that often have been weaponized against people.” 

The ‘Protein’ music video

Over the past few weeks and months, Jeshi has put out ample tunes and visuals. One of his latest - 'Protein’ - really hits different and comes through as a must-hear and must-see.