AJ Tracey and Mabel, arguably two of 2019’s biggest breakout musical stars have linked up once again, following 2016’s “Thinking Of You (Remix).” The anthemic “West Ten” sees the pair pay homage to their West London roots, something Tracey has done previously on the double-platinum, “Ladbroke Grove.”
Similar to his previous hit, “West Ten” brings us that old school funky house/UK garage sound, and both artists complement each other perfectly, with Mabel’s soulful vocals taking the record to another level.
The track was produced by Fred and Take A Daytrip who are responsible for hits from artists such as Stormzy, Lil Nas X, and Dua Lipa. The accompanying visuals, directed by Oliver Jennings takes us straight back to the noughties.
The collaboration follows a plethora of high profile releases from Tracey, who has already dominated 2020 with “Dinner Guest” featuring Mo Stack and “Rain” with Aitch, not to mention his role in BBC Radio 1’s chart-topping charity single “Times Like These.” The rapper also recently announced the release of his upcoming EP Secure The Bag 2. Teasing the project to fans on social media, he stated that it would be for “real” fans and that he was going back to music “he enjoyed making the most.” Serving a follow up to his 2017 EP which featured JME and Denzel Curry, he wrote that the record would be a combination of old and new tracks and that it would have no features.
Mabel too has had a successful year. As well as also appearing on the BBC Radio 1 single, she toured in support of High Expectations, released her Top 10 single “Boyfriend,” and scooped a BRIT Award for Best British Female following a rousing performance at the ceremony.
“West Ten” is definitely on par, if not better than “Ladbroke Grove” and just like the latter dominated 2019, expect to hear this track being played everywhere this summer – loud.