Sekou
The BRIT-nominated star levels up with a sold-out show, A-list collaborators, and a mixtape that refuses to dim his shine
British powerhouse singer-songwriter Sekou is done letting the world delay the inevitable — with the release of his brand new mixtape, In A World We Don’t Belong Pt. 1, the 21-year-old proves he’s got what it takes — and more — to become an undeniable cultural phenomenon.
The 5-track collection arrives just days before his sold-out headline show at London’s Bush Hall on November 20th, a milestone that caps a breakout year defined by major co-signs and critical acclaim. Sekou first turned heads when he made history as the youngest ever BRIT Rising Star nominee, an acknowledgment that immediately placed him in the highest echelon of emerging UK talent. He then cemented himself as one to watch with a prestigious BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2024 shortlist placement and a show-stopping performance on Later… with Jools Holland.
The rapid accumulation of accolades speaks to the industry’s belief in his longevity. Beyond the critical nods, Sekou has been embraced by some of the biggest names globally. Add appearances at the TIFF Tribute Awards and studio time with heavyweights like Justin Bieber, UK rap star Central Cee, and experimental artist Kevin Abstract. It’s this blend of mainstream success and respected artistic credibility that makes his trajectory so compelling. This consensus is perfectly encapsulated by the glowing, public approval received from the legendary Sir Elton John. It’s clear: the industry sees what’s coming, and it’s something huge.
And yet, on In A World We Don’t Belong Pt. 1, Sekou sounds like he’s ignoring the accolades and singing straight from the soul. The project opens with the buoyant “Never Gunna Give You Up” (and no, it’s not a Rick Astley cover) and “Catching Bodies,” a double dose of euphoric, tight-knit pop that lets his brilliant vocals stretch out and celebrate vulnerability without apology.
The centerpiece is “Love Language,” a slow-burn ballad that premiered as BBC Radio 1’s Hottest Record. It’s tender, pleading, and anchored in the kind of romantic reciprocity that feels both fragile and universal.
As the tape winds down, Sekou pivots again. “About Last Night” keeps the groove alive, a toe-tapper built for 2 AM dance floors and next-day reflection. Closer “Keep My Love” is the gut punch — a raw, whispered confessional blessed with a maturity far beyond his years. It feels like the thesis statement for the mixtape’s entire world: love is complicated, but hope is worth the risk.
If this is only Part 1, Sekou is making a bigger promise — that he’s here to build a legacy brick by brick, song by song. He’s already filled arenas as support for FLO, bringing down O2 Brixton Academy with what Clash Magazine called a “perfect” performance. Now he’s selling out his own shows in minutes.
With In A World We Don’t Belong Pt. 1 Sekou is planting a flag. He belongs — and soon, the rest of us will want to follow him into whatever world he builds next.
Listen to In A World We Don’t Belong Pt. 1 here.
About the Author
