Pa Salieu by Ryan Jafarzadeh
Gambian-born, UK-raised artist Pa Salieu returns with a double single “Epiphany/Crash.” Across the two tracks, Salieu is at his most unapologetic and introspective as he dives deep into themes of oppression, resilience, and self-discovery while providing an intimate glimpse into his mental state while incarcerated. Produced by long-time collaborators Felix and AoD, the two tracks find Pa calling out systematic oppression with a perspective reminiscent of a modern-day Lennon — unafraid to challenge the establishment and commit to the truth.
Released from his sentence only a month ago, “Epiphany” is a bold and timely declaration, where Pa steps into the role of “the witness and the documenter,” holding up a mirror to a corrupt system and the global injustices that shape our world.
In contrast, “Crash” is a reflection on the past, an exploration of pain and personal struggles from the confines of a prison cell, offering a raw glimpse into Pa’s journey and the adversities he’s faced. With introspective lyrics and evocative visuals, “Crash” paints a haunting portrait of vulnerability, struggle, and the fight for redemption.
Speaking on “Epiphany/Crash” Pa says: While I was in jail, I realised how fortunate I was to always have my thoughts for company. My mind was my escape, and I fell in love with the pen and paper and that’s when I had an epiphany—I have a voice, a platform, and something meaningful to say. Growing up in a Pan-Africanist family, I was raised with a strong sense of history, and I know the power of words. Reading Tupac’s, The Rose That Grew from Concrete inspired me, especially the way he expressed himself through poetry. I love philosophy, history, culture, and I love humanity. “Epiphany” and “Crash” are raw reflections of that, taken directly from my jail notes.
“Epiphany/Crash” follows the success of his explosive return single “Belly,” which marked Pa’s re-emergence with a bang, and was followed by his collaboration with Arsenal on “Allergy,” featured in EA FC 2025 Soundtrack. With “Epiphany/Crash,” Pa Salieu once again proves why he’s one of the most essential voices in contemporary music, merging sharp lyricism with unflinching honesty and unmatched charisma.
About Pa Salieu
Gambian via Coventry star Pa Salieu burst onto the scene in 2020 with “Frontline,” the most-played track on BBC Radio 1Xtra that year, quickly becoming one of the leading voices in British rap. He was named BBC’s Sound of 2021 and has delivered show-stopping performances on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Later… with Jools Holland. Pa’s versatility shines through collaborations with artists like FKA Twigs, Aitch, and Yussef Dayes, while his influence extends beyond music into fashion with partnerships with Givenchy, Burberry, and Dior. His debut mixtape Send Them To Coventry received critical acclaim, cementing him as a boundary-pushing artist in the UK scene.
CONNECT WITH PA SALIEU:
