Kosher, Falle Nioke & Sleepy Time Ghost - Gunshot (Single)
‘Gunshot’ is the third single taken from Kosher’s upcoming album ‘Time is the Master’, and was released September 22nd. The tune was made in collaboration with critically acclaimed Guinean musician Falle Nioke, from West Africa, and London-based producer Sleepy Time Ghost. Kosher and Falle's friendship started the day they met at the SW4 Festival, where they supported Congo Natty.
Inspired by music from the likes of Shenseea, Koffee, Dawn Penn, Lila Ike and Etana, ‘Gunshot's’ beat is a slowed-down hip swayer with nods to Kosher's reggae roots. The overall message is one of wanting to find peace within troubled communities, and can be felt across a catchy hook that reflects the political times, incorporating themes of social injustice. Futuristic audio features combine digital sounds with tribalistic elements to make ‘Gunshot’ an infectious tune ready to be played in clubs across the world. The song was conceptualised upon Kosher and Falle’s first meeting, with Falle first coming up with the hook. Kosher and Falle agreed that they felt the pull within them to create something meaningful that both of their cultures could relate to. They spoke about the impact of violent crime across the UK, as well as in Kosher's homeland of Jamaica and Falle’s Guinea, and together wrote ‘Gunshot’.
The sensuality of Kosher’s delivery acts as a juxtaposition to the preaching lyrics, which almost beg the listener to open their eyes and pay attention to the brutality around them. The pair can be heard singing heartfelt lyrics such as ‘Where is the peace, where is the love?’, playing on the listeners heartstrings and acting as a cautionary tale to those who might be considering acting out of hate. The dynamic harmonies between Falle and Kosher are haunting, making the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. ‘Gunshot’ manages to be melancholic as well as warm and inviting. The overall vibe of the song invites us to consider a less reactive approach to the turmoil we see around us and embrace one another instead. Kosher’s beautiful high notes carry, sounding sweet and child-like against Falle’s deep, earthy expression. ‘Gunshot’ is the kind of song that makes me want to breathe deep and relax into the present rather than agonise over the past or future, helping to deliver their message of peace and love.
Kosher, born and raised in Hackney, is a creative writing mentor at the Young Urban Arts Foundation. As a result of teaching young people to write, she says her own writing style has developed. Kosher says her goal is to always write meaningful lyrics with the intention to have an impact on its listener. That motivation comes across in the lyrics to ‘Gunshot’. She expresses that simple lyrics can be the most impactful, and wants to inspire others to lead with love when faced with challenges in life.
When talking further about the message of ‘Gunshot’, she says: ‘I want people to hear the words, 'Hear my cry.' 'Gunshot' is an example of that cry, as gun and knife crime is rife here, and all over the world. It is our young, our babies, that we are losing daily. I find this behaviour unforgivable and people need to stand up and be accountable and responsible. Also, young people need to be more aware of how precious life really is."
Kosher's impressive resume of festivals includes Intamaste Festival, Jamaica; Hackney Reggae Festival, Boomtown Festival, Love Saves the Night / Love Saves the Day Festival, Village Underground, Nanook Festival, Jamaica; Hootenanny Brixton, Chip Shop, Brixton and Unit 137 SoundSystem events.
Kosher’s success has also meant that she has received support from BBC Radio 6’s Don Letts. Her previous singles' ‘You Nah Understand’ and ‘Thanks and Praise’ have both been rated highly by listeners. Kosher's stardom continues to rise as she receives support within the Reggae Fusion community, too. The inspiration her Jamaican heritage has had on her taste and style can be sincerely felt by listening to her latest offering. ‘Gunshot’ is a single that has it all, heart, compassion, and groove and leaves a lingering taste of reflection in the listener's mouth. Kosher's message is felt loud and clear, only through love can we get closer to finding peace.
Words: Jessica Holmes