Rapper Stormzy on British politics, knife crime in the UK and new album Heavy is the Head

Hailed as a ‘next generation leader’ by Time magazine, Stormzy recently released his second album after winning numerous music awards

The rapper, who will perform at Hong Kong’s Sónar festival on March 28, talks about Britain’s problems and why he has little time for Boris Johnson

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Stormzy performing in a stab-proof vest.

Published: 4:00pm, 10 Jan 2020Updated: 4:00pm, 10 Jan 2020

He caused a massive sensation when he appeared before 100,000 fans at Britain’s famous Glastonbury Festival in mid-2019 wearing a stab-proof vest emblazoned with a black and white Union Jack flag designed by street artist Banksy. But when he’s not on stage, British rapper Stormzy likes it a bit more comfortable.

On a chilly December day at a recording studio in Chiswick, London, the 26-year-old is wearing lined slippers. “I can only recommend them, they’re so cosy,” Stormzy says and laughs. His good mood and friendly nature are contagious.

The London musician topped British charts with his debut album “Gang Signs and Prayer” two years ago. His second album, “Heavy is the Head”, hints at the weight of a crown after winning numerous awards.

“It’s me dealing with the burdens, it’s me standing up to the task,” he explains, quickly adding that this task is “frightening … daunting and overwhelming”.

Indeed, Stormzy (real name Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jnr) has been a role model for many, and Time magazine has named him as a “next generation leader”.

But Stormzy – who will be making his hugely anticipated return to Hong Kong at the Sónar festival on March 28 – also welcomes the awards. “I’m super happy,” he says. “I didn’t roll over one day and wake up and I was in this position. I prayed and worked for it.”