Skepta’s new album challenges anti-immigration rhetoric and racism
Skepta says his long-delayed album, *The Fork and Knife*, reflects a growing sense of responsibility for the messages he puts into music. At 44, the grime artist wants to address immigration and racism while keeping the records lively, arguing that multiculturalism is central to British identity.
The album is due next week, 33 months after it was first announced. On the single “Innocent Smile”, featuring Suggs and Chase and Status, Skepta condemns politicians who scapegoat immigrants and honours his Nigerian parents’ journey to Tottenham. He links his views to growing up around his father’s ska records and a mix of Black and white family friends, and says fatherhood has made him more mindful of what he says.
In short
- Skepta’s new album is shaped by a stronger sense of responsibility.
- “Innocent Smile” defends immigrants and celebrates multicultural Britain.
- The album arrives 33 months after it was announced.
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The case for
Skepta’s argument is that immigration and multiculturalism are part of Britain’s lived identity, and that speaking against racism and political scapegoating is a responsible use of an artist’s platform. His family history and upbringing give him a personal stake in making that case, while music can bring the message to listeners who might not encounter it elsewhere.
The case against
A thoughtful critic might argue that a musician’s influence does not make every political claim well founded, and that songs which condemn politicians or immigration rhetoric can flatten complex policy disagreements into moral accusations. They might also prefer artists to leave room for debate about how immigration should be managed, while recognising the dignity of immigrants and opposing racism.
Explained simply
Skepta is a British grime artist from Tottenham, north London. Grime emerged in the early 2000s, blending electronic beats with fast, rhythmic vocals, and has become part of Britain’s wider popular music scene.
Immigration is the movement of people to live in another country, while racism involves prejudice or unfair treatment based on race or ethnic background. Britain’s population and culture have been shaped by migration over generations, including people who came from countries such as Nigeria and their families.
Skepta’s family background and upbringing inform how he discusses these subjects in his music. His comments place the debate over immigration and racism alongside questions about British identity and the influence artists have on their audiences.
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Originally published by The Guardian as “‘Ignorance towards immigration is horrible. It’s not British’: Skepta on his long-awaited return – and his anger at the racist right”.