With the feel good song “Feels”, M.anifest continues to show why he is one of the predominant rappers on the hip hop scene in Ghana. He brings lyricism and punchlines to a catchy tune that’s backed by percussion that makes you wanna bob your head and/or dance along. He is joined by Kwesi Arthur on the track, which was released as a single in 2018.
M.anifest speaks about what it “Feels” like to have finally made it after everything he has been through and seen in life. Throughout the song he creates a back and forth between these two dynamics: then and now. With lines like “The road has be rocky, ASAP. Now know royalties, ASCAP.” M.anifest tells the story of his come up, reflects on the time that has passed and all that he has learned in the process. Conceptually it is a theme that appears frequently in hip-hop, but M.anifest’s approach is somehow different. It is not boastful or showy, but to the contrary it is reflective and beautifully simple. The tone eloquently expresses the thankfulness and gratitude that the artist has, which gives a level of genuineness that cannot be faked.
The chorus sings “Oh Lord what a feeling” (sung by rising star Kwesi Arthur), and it is immediately clear that anyone who has “made it through” will identify with this song. M.anifest and Arthur are clearly aware of this as they create a hook that is easy to sing along to and almost dares you (if you are a believer) not proclaim “I feel blessed” and give glory to God for what He has done in your life and what He has brought you through.
The track has definitely made its way onto my morning playlist of positive tunes that get me hype. I look forward to further exploring M.anifest music and I made sure to follow him and Kwesi on twitter (@manifestive and @kwesiarthur_ respectively) so I can stay up to date.