A Leeds rapper and former footballer has been profiled in a film by MTV and Reebok Europe titled "My City, My Sound".
Graft is a Leeds rapper who shot to fame after winning BBC Three's Rap Game. The digital film released by MTV today follows Graft, as he showcases Chapeltown, one of Britain's oldest black communities.
Historically, Chapeltown was viewed as downtrodden and considered a rough part of town, but advances in the last few years have seen property prices in the area rise significantly. At the same time the Northern rap scene has grown significantly in the area, and is now considered a powerful breeding ground for hip hop.
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Graft, who claims his music was inspired by his city is given a lead role in the film, and a chance to explore his hometown in the heart of Leeds. The film stars him detailing his early life and the people who have had the greatest impact on him as a man and musician.
Speaking in the film, Graft said: "Chapeltown has its own musical identity with sounds like Grime, Rap, Bassline, House, Garage, Reggae, R&B, Dancehall and Bashment. Being around these genres of music and Caribbean culture from an early age has really influenced me as a person as well as an artist.
"I used to chill out on Chapeltown Road and eat food from Dutch Pot. I have so many fond memories there; I always used to order a chicken express meal for £2”.
The Graft film is the third in a series which has explored the unique style and inspiring stories of individuals in France (Marseille), Germany (Leipzig) and the UK (Leeds), who are transforming their communities through music, dance, sport, and activism. It was co-created by Reebok Europe and MTV, and Graft called the collaboration a perfect "alignment".
Graft said: “Collaborating with Reebok and MTV aligns with my manifesto, because it's three brands coming together creating a sufficient and memorable impact.”
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