My Inspiration: BADZ – Grateful

Newcastle’s BADZ is shaping an exciting Afrobeat/Afrofusion sound built on infectious rhythms, melodic warmth and a deeply personal approach to storytelling. Rooted in real life, culture and the people who’ve shaped him, he’s steadily carving out space in the North East scene through new releases and standout live performances. His latest single Grateful distils that journey into one uplifting moment and celebrates faith, family, friendship and the community that’s carried him forward. Sonically, a fresh, jazzy blend of snappy, vibrant rhythms, sun‑kissed guitar lines and a brass hook that loops like a mantra, while the vocals slip between breathless staccato flow and a smooth, melodic sway.

Here, BADZ tells us more about what inspired the track…

Grateful is my way of giving thanks to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey so far.

I’m BADZ, a Newcastle-based musical artist, and this project comes from a very personal place. I wanted to create something that represents appreciation  for life, for the journey, for the people around me and, most importantly, for God.

I’m grateful for my family and friends who continue to show up for me and encourage me to show up every day, even when things aren’t always easy. The support from the people I call my real ones has played a big part in the progress I’ve made, and I wanted to put that feeling into music.

Grateful is essentially a thanksgiving song. I poured my heart and soul into it because I wanted the lyrics to genuinely reflect how thankful and happy I am for the progress I’ve seen and for the people who have been there along the way.

Musically, I wanted the project to carry that same feeling of celebration. It blends Afrofusion sounds with drums and a danceable beat, creating something that you can move to while still connecting with the message behind the lyrics.

For me, gratitude isn’t just about celebrating the big moments. It’s also about recognising the people who encourage you, the ones who believe in you, and the small steps forward that sometimes go unnoticed.

Grateful is my opportunity to say thank you to God, to my family, to my friends, to everyone who has supported my music and to everyone who has helped me keep pushing forward.

This project is for the real ones.