Cracky Blacks, known in the music world as CB, emerged from the vibrant East London scene to become a key figure in the UK Drill genre. At the age of 25, his journey in rap began early, gaining significant recognition in 2017 with the release of ‘Take That Risk,’ a track produced by MKThePlug & M1OnTheBeat, now regarded as a pivotal piece in the UK Drill landscape.
Despite encountering legal troubles in March 2019 and receiving a 23-year prison sentence on firearm-related charges, CB‘s creative spirit remained unbroken. Instead of succumbing to adversity, he released his debut mixtape, “A Drillers Perspective,” later that year, showcasing 16 tracks that not only demonstrated his artistic prowess but also provided a glimpse into the intricate world of London’s drill culture.
The mixtape served as a canvas for CB‘s distinctive style and authentic storytelling, offering listeners a profound insight into his life, from growing up in East London to navigating the challenges of the cutthroat UK music industry. It became a testament to his personal journey, capturing the harsh realities of street life and the complexities of his environment. In doing so, “A Drillers Perspective” not only solidified CB‘s position as an exceptional talent but also contributed to the broader acknowledgment of UK Drill as a genre with a distinctive voice and narrative.
Receiving critical acclaim, the mixtape played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of UK Drill music. It not only became a reference point for emerging artists but also elevated CB‘s status, leading to more collaborations, iconic freestyles, and heightened anticipation for his future releases. The ‘Plugged In Freestyle‘ with Fumez The Engineer in 2020, in particular, emerged as one of CB’s standout hits.
Breaking his silence in July 2022, CB dropped the highly anticipated “A Drillers Perspective 2,” featuring collaborations with prominent UK drill artists such as Kwengface, Suspect, and M24. This project added depth and diversity, with each artist contributing a unique perspective to the mixtape.
“A Drillers Perspective” showcased CB‘s artistic growth and versatility while retaining the raw authenticity that endeared fans to his music. It stood as a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft, even in the face of personal challenges.
Highlighting the track ‘Hollows‘ with J Hus, CB delivered a raw, bold, and unapologetic piece. The collaboration encapsulated a unique flow, gritty lyrics, intense beats, and heavy basslines—a long-awaited partnership that drove the record, affirming CB‘s unwavering determination and refusal to slow down.
As CB looks ahead, the release of “A Drillers Perspective 2” marks a new chapter in his career. With collaborations, iconic freestyles, and future releases on the horizon, CB is poised to solidify his place as a trailblazer in the UK music scene, promising a stellar year ahead filled with even greater heights and achievements. Stay tuned for the unstoppable journey of CB in the dynamic world of UK Drill.
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