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Noname – “Squatter” (Feat. DRAM)
Chicago rapper Noname has released a new single, "Squatter," featuring Virginia singer DRAM, marking fresh activity from two artists who have been relatively quiet of late. The song arrives as fans continue to await a release date for Noname's long-promised mixtape Cartoon Radio, first announced last year alongside the single "Hundred Acres," with no timeline yet confirmed.
Produced by C-Sick, "Squatter" is built on a bright, funky beat reminiscent of classic West Coast rap and tells a narrative, drawn from Noname's own experience, about a squatter who broke into her home while she was away and had to be removed by friends. DRAM contributes a verse reinforcing the song's theme about protecting one's property. The release coincides with Noname preparing to tour in celebration of the tenth anniversary of her acclaimed 2015 debut mixtape Telefone, with dates running from late July through November, including a stop in London.
In short
- Noname and DRAM release new single "Squatter"
- Song recounts a real break-in at Noname's house
- Noname tours this year for Telefone's 10th anniversary
Explained simply
Noname is a Chicago rapper known for intelligent, socially conscious lyrics. Her 2015 debut mixtape Telefone earned critical recognition and established her as an influential figure in contemporary hip-hop. Since then she has largely stepped back from the public eye, but has maintained a devoted fanbase who have been waiting for new material from her.
DRAM is a singer from Virginia who has worked with multiple artists across hip-hop and adjacent genres. On the new single "Squatter," he features alongside Noname to recount a troubling real-life incident in which someone illegally occupied her home. The song addresses this experience directly, exploring themes of personal violation and protection.
The collaboration signals renewed activity from both artists and arrives at a moment when anticipation around new Noname music remains high. She has been promising a new mixtape called Cartoon Radio for over a year with no confirmed release date, whilst also preparing to mark the tenth anniversary of Telefone with a touring campaign.
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