In the midst of COVID-19 and self-isolation being practiced across the country, rapper Yashraj Mehra and music producer Rishi Rich have joined hands to pay tribute to the fighting spirit of Mumbai by creating a unique, thematic post lockdown anthem for the city titled ‘Kanipatu’.

Inspired from the word “Kanipettu”, meaning to wait or expect (In Telugu), this the first time the UK music mogul and young Indian rapper will collaborate to diligently craft a hip-hop song that showcases the everlasting determination of Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. With the mania that COVID-19 has created, this is a song of passion, positivity, and hope, leaving listeners with the message to 'expect the unexpected from this maximum city once again, soon.'

Personifying this essence, the song is supported by a unique and dramatic animated video that highlights this young artist's refreshing view on the world, his desire to break the mold, and make his mark in his own unique way. It sets the narrative of how everyone is equipped to deal with the hurdles and challenges, just like Mumbai has done each time it has faced any crisis.

Yashraj mentions, “Kanipatu is my take on the perseverance of Mumbaikars and how we have been raised by this jungle-like-city. Mumbai has a very cut-throat environment, the never say-die-attitude, the confidence of the city and people that never discriminates on the basis of religion or caste, but functions on the principle of 'the survival of the fittest'. Kanipatu is my salute to that spirit.”

Talking about collaborating with Rishi Rich, the 19-year-old added, “I would have never thought in my dreams that I would get an opportunity to make a record with the music tycoon Rishi Rich. Seeing my name next to his is truly an honor especially for someone who practically blasted his music in cars and speakers. We had a ball working on Kanipatu and I hope the audience enjoys it as well.”

“I remember being in the studio making the beat for Kanipatu and my friend Aayushman had come to see me. He loved the sound and told me he was managing an artist and said let me show you what he can do over this beat. He sent me a demo which was very close to what the original sounded like and I was like wow, this guy is crazy! We met up and he was so young and talented, full of energy and just so happy doing his thing”, mentions the legendary music producer Rishi Rich.

One of the key aspects of Break The Noise Records (under which the track is set to be released) is its passion for developing emerging talent along with supporting independent artists around the world. Formed by Rishi Rich, the camp has continued with its pledge to bring new and exciting talent to the fore as it delivers the exceptional track ‘Kanipatu’ featuring aamchi Mumbai's 20-year-old writer, poet and rapper 'Yashraj'.

On the song, he further adds, “I love making music like this, this kind of vibe, these kinds of beats and Yashraj was a perfect choice to deliver the vocals, he's got great flow. It's good to find an artist who's on that kind of level where it's just him throughout the track, no backing or chorus required. When something is so pure, it doesn't need additives!"

Prior to this, Yashraj’s debut EP, Azaad Hu Mein was well received by fans as well as industry veterans like Bobby Friction followed by his single ‘Do Khidkiyaan’. Yashraj has even collaborated with Zaeden and Lost Stories for a remix of “tere bina” and performed along with them at Vh1 Supersonic (India's most premium music festival) and IIT Mood Indigo (#1 College fest in India). His verses have garnered support from artists like superstar DJ Marshmello, DIVINE, Lost Stories, Zaeden, Ritviz, and more.

Watch and listen:

Kanipatu releases on the 20th of July 2020 globally via digital outlets and streaming platforms.