Skepta - #UnderdogPsychosis no.1

About this video

• Video Title: Skepta - #UnderdogPsychosis no.1
• Channel: Skepta Grime
• Speakers: Skepta
• Duration: 25:58

Overview

This video is the first installment of Skepta's #UnderdogPsychosis series, where he shares personal anecdotes and reflections on his journey, touching on his experiences in school, the influence of music, and the societal challenges faced by those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Key takeaways

• Early Academic Struggles: Skepta recounts being identified as too advanced for his age in school, leading to him being moved up a year. However, this academic advancement, coupled with a lack of engagement with the school system, contributed to behavioral issues and boredom.
• The Power of Music: Music, particularly from his father's DJing background and his own early exposure to rap and drum and bass, became a significant passion and a potential escape route from his difficult circumstances.
• Critique of the Education System: Skepta expresses dissatisfaction with the traditional education system, feeling that his attitude and behavior didn't fit the mold and that teachers were more inclined to exclude him than to engage him in learning. He questions the relevance of some academic subjects to real-life challenges.
• Societal Stigma and Prejudice: The video highlights the prejudice and stereotyping Skepta has faced due to his background and appearance, leading to distrust and negative assumptions from others.
• The Role of Rap Music: Skepta argues that rap music serves as a voice for the emotions and experiences of those who feel marginalized, reflecting societal issues rather than solely influencing them.
• Overcoming Adversity: He emphasizes the importance of ambition, hard work, and believing in one's talent to overcome societal limitations and break free from cycles of negativity, such as crime and low expectations.
• Class System and Inequality: Skepta touches upon the existence of a class system in the UK and the feeling of being looked down upon by those perceived as being in a higher social standing.
• Finding a Way Out: He credits his music career and the support of fans for providing him with hope and an alternative path, allowing him to move away from past negative behaviors like drug dealing.