Offie Mag

“The first step is always the hardest.”

You’ve probably seen that phrase printed on terrible motivational office artwork all over the world. But what is the first step, you ask? According to Crafty 893, it’s “suck your mum.” And apparently that might be step two as well.

‘Step 1’, released via Tru Thoughts, is the highly anticipated new single from South London’s Crafty 893 — featuring bars from the freestyle that had grime connoisseur DaMetalMessiah calling it the best of 2024. It’s been demanding reloads wherever it’s played, leaving fans wondering: has he ever made it past step three?

The beat hits heavy. Bass that thumps in your chest. Haunting melodies layered with sporadic vocal chops add dynamism — but really, it all serves as a perfect canvas for Crafty to work his magic.

Crafty calls it “just a fun warning to other MCs,” but it’s clear he means business. He’s shown that on Rinse FM’s Oblig Cypher, where he made it obvious: when it comes to grime, Crafty doesn’t play games.

While he's been focusing more on production since his last album, if ‘Step 1’ is anything to go by, you’ll want to keep both ears open for what Crafty 893 has coming next.

Listen to ‘Step 1’ here.

Words by Louis Rowland