Zambian rapper James JR has released a new music video for his latest track “Uptown,” an anthem dedicated to everyone chasing the finer side of life and working their way towards better days. Built around the memorable line “no elevator, we took the stairs to uptown,” the song speaks to the hustle, persistence and determination required to make it to the top.
For the new release, James JR teams up with Yellow Man and Ndine Emma, bringing together different voices for a record that celebrates ambition while keeping its street-rooted hip-hop energy. Ndine Emma also uses his contribution to take aim at fellow rapper Y Cool, who, like James JR, is signed to Apa Ili So Entertainment, adding a competitive edge to the release and giving the track another talking point.
“Uptown” ultimately centres on the journey from the bottom to the top — putting in the work, taking the long route and refusing to wait for an easy way up. With the new visuals now out, James JR adds another energetic release to his catalogue while the collaboration with Yellow Man and Ndine Emma brings plenty of personality and lyrical tension to the record.
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