The Agenda 2022

This year, the astounding rise of Central Cee continued to spark headlines, setting The Agenda at home and overseas. First, the West Londoner’s February release, 23, expanded on the bristling underdog tales of 2021 full-length Wild West, followed by the inspired single that readjusted the balance of rap’s top tier. Unquestionably, the summer of 2022 was all about “Doja”. A restless flurry of rhymes (yes, loosely dedicated to its Grammy-winning namesake), the viral track—clocking in at just over 90 seconds—hit the mark on a juicy flip of Gwen Stefani and Eve’s noughties vibe “Let Me Blow Ya Mind”. Not content with holding the warmer months in his palm, the MC led us to the year’s end with four tidy doses of uninhibited UK rap passion on his EP No More Leaks. Much has changed since Cench was kicked out of his home as a teen (as revealed by his mother on 23’s outro track)—thankfully, only brighter days are on the horizon for the rhyming pride of West London. Maybe even that long-awaited debut album? Elsewhere, UK R&B reached exciting new heights with Bellah and WSTRN leading the way, and Aitch fulfilled his early promise on his soul-searching debut album Close to Home. Hear more from the rich pool of artists who helped redefine The Agenda in 2022—and if you hear something you like, don’t forget to add it to your library.