View this video on YouTube
When it comes to music-making, producers play an integral role in how artists are presented to the world. You could think you have the finest R&B vocal or the dopest of rap flows, but pick an ill-fitting beat and it could be detrimental.
What happens, then, when you’re a chart-topping producer who can also sing, and do both just as well? Well, just ask 169, the South London-born beatsmith behind gems such as Fredo and Dave’s “Funky Friday” (the No. 1 smash-hit), Stormzy’s “Bad Boys”, and AJ Tracey and Santan’s platinum-selling “Thiago Silva”. Since stepping in front of the boards in 2018 with his debut EP, Seasons, 169 has continued to hone in on his vocals and songcraft and is now gearing up to release Nothing Before Its Time, his third EP—following 2020’s SYNC—next month.
Speaking about his latest self-produced single, “Bracing”, featuring OFB drill star RV, 169 tells Complex: “This song is about being patient and making yourself the best that you can be; only then can life present you with that one special person. ‘Bracing’ blends trap, drill and R&B into one, creating a dreamy, futuristic soundscape. Massive shout-out to RV for the verse, too.”
Peep the simple-but-effective visuals for “Bracing” exclusively above, and be sure to add the song to your playlists.
