Manchester rapper and poet OneDa is poised for a major breakthrough with the release of her debut album, Formula OneDa, dropping on October 4th via Heavenly Recordings. Ahead of the album, she shares latest track ‘The Western Way’.
Adding to the momentum built by her previous releases ‘Major Pay’, ‘Set It Off’, ‘Superwoman’ ‘Let Me In’ – ‘The Western Way’ is a captivating blend of reggae-influenced vocals, deep bass, and a dynamic drum and bass rhythm that crescendos into a fierce breakdown before rising back to an electrifying peak. On the track, OneDa describes it as a metaphor for the western world—a place seen as a land of opportunity where dreams can be realized if one is willing to take the shot. Each track has received critical acclaim and substantial national radio play, setting high expectations for her forthcoming album.
🏁 LISTEN TO ‘THE WESTERN WAY’ 🏁
Recently shortlisted for the ‘One To Watch’ artist at the AIM Awards, alongside talents like Lynks, Antony Szmierek, Miso Extra, and Kitty Amor, OneDa is rapidly establishing herself as a formidable force in the music industry.
🛞 ‘FORMULA ONEDA’ READ ALL ABOUT IT HERE 🛞
• TRACKLIST • PRE-ORDER THE VINYL OR CD • RELEASED OCTOBER 4TH 2024. •
On the ethos behind the album, OneDa adds:
“In early 2023, while listening to my mixtape demos, the line ‘had to step away, get the levels up fast, Formula OneDa never come last’ from my song ‘Off My Light’ stood out. We decided to name my album ‘Formula Oneda’. Coincidentally, I discovered that the F1 Academy had just started, aligning perfectly with my album’s vision. For the first time in over 30 years, Formula 1 has created a platform to inspire and support young girls and women. Previously indifferent to Formula 1, I am now excited by the progress these women are making in the male-dominated racing circuit. While becoming a racing driver was never my goal, the F1 Academy metaphor fits my journey from a backmarker to a leader. This year, I plan to support these inspiring women as they drive with Pussy Power to take pole position in motorsports.”
Having supported Kneecap and Baxter Dury, and with standout performances at The Great Escape, OneDa is establishing herself as one of the UK’s most dynamic hip-hop artists. Her music transcends genres, blending hip-hop, drum and bass, afro-trap, and afrobeats, reflecting her Nigerian heritage and Manchester roots. Known for her dexterous wordplay and poetic verses, OneDa’s voice is a unique force in the evolving drum and bass scene. Her boundless linguistic talent and poetic verses set her apart. Named by The Face as a key MC in the drum ‘n’ bass renaissance, OneDa is dedicated to empowering others.
Her live performance credits include headlining with Angélique Kidjo at Aviva Studios’ launch in Manchester and leading performances at Manchester Pride 2023. She continues to gain acclaim from BBC Radio 6, DJ Mag, The Face, NTS, Wonderland, UKF, and The Line of Best Fit.
Beyond her music, OneDa is dedicated to community initiatives, leading hip-hop therapy for Manchester youth and championing projects like Herchester, which amplifies marginalized voices in music. Her vision extends beyond chart success; she aims to establish a hip-hop therapy school for all ages, showcasing music’s potential for positive change. Her drive and authenticity inspire others to embrace their true selves.
Citing ’empowerment’ as her greatest inspiration, OneDa channels her struggle with acceptance of her queerness into her music, promoting a message of self-love and freedom: “When you truly love yourself, that overpowers anyone else’s opinion.” Although she only began producing music two years ago, OneDa’s debut LP showcases her mastery across multiple genres. Collaborations with artists like Sam Binga, Songer, Devilman, and Mr. Scruff highlight her versatility. Her standout verse on Vibe Chemistry’s ‘Ballin’’, with over 35 million streams, further cemented her reputation. Her first fully produced track, ‘Rude Girl Flex’, earned her a spot on the BBC 6 Music playlist and an appearance at the BBC 6 Music Festival.
Having played an astonishing five shows at Glastonbury Festival and with upcoming performances at Gilles Peterson’s We Out Here weekend and Boomtown, 2024 promises to be the year OneDa takes her career to new heights. Fasten your seat belts, because this Boss Bitch is the Leader Yano.
• ONEDA TOUR DATES •
10 Sept • Paper Dress Vintage • London
28 Sept • Float Along Festival • Sheffield
10 Oct • Beyond The Music • Manchester
16-17 Oct • Mama Fest • Paris
18-19 Oct • SWN Festival • Cardiff
• FOLLOW ONEDA •
