From London to Brooklyn: Feng and the UK Underground Make Their Mark
When you think of the United Kingdom, you might think of your typical tea and crackers. The Big Bell. Maybe even brick buildings and huge waters. It’s a powerful past. Good things. Bad things. You can think of a lot when it comes to the UK.
But what if I told you that there was an underground rap scene? A rap scene with emerging talent from all walks of London, who are currently buzzing at this moment, and are changing the way we see the underground scene.
A lot of Gen Z and Alpha, when hearing of the underground—predominantly American—will think of names like Netspend, Xaviersobased, and Osamason. But alongside that are Lancey Foux, YT, Fakemink, and Feng from the UK. These acts are changing the contribution to the ever-evolving sounds of the underground.
Particularly, Feng is an artist who has been rising in popularity, bubbling within your favorite rappers' circles. Songs like “XY” encapsulate a seemingly on-and-off romantic relationship with a partner. “I can’t leave a comment / but I like your Gucci purse.” He’s checking up on his crush, careful not to seem creepy, but admiring her appearance and aesthetic. “But I know someone bought it for you, so it hurts.” He wants to be the only one she thinks about, and knowing someone else is in the picture bruises his ego and effort. His presence, it seems, isn’t a priority to her.
This song sparked my curiosity about the rest of his discography. Songs like “Weekend” feature distinct, unique beats and flows reminiscent of Skepta, while also echoing earlier influences like Yung Lean and the Sad Boys era. “M.I.A.” recaptures nostalgia, referencing “Paper Planes” and drawing parallels between M.I.A.’s British roots and his own. The track evokes the feeling of being young and reflecting on memories, or imagining what could’ve been.
Feng’s music taps into the mindset of teenagers and young adults, especially those in a curious, reflective phase of life. His sound invites you to remember, dream, and feel.
That’s exactly why it was time to experience his artistry live when he touched down in New York City on May 2nd. Headlining a packed event hosted by Good Hits TV — part of the well-known Restless Fest — Feng took the stage at Brooklyn Meadows, a venue in Bushwick known for high-energy underground performances. This same fest has supported acts like Netspend, Osamason, and Xaviersobased in their early days.
Upon entering, the halls were full of blaring music and a growing crowd. Feng performed after several up-and-coming artists like Yuck and Kahleation. By the time the openers wrapped up, the venue was packed wall to wall. From backstage to the front of the stage, it was shoulder-to-shoulder bodies. You had to move aside just to let the artist in — he couldn't use the stairs because of the crowd. It was a moment to witness.
When Feng hit the stage, the energy shifted. The crowd went electric. Every lyric on every track was echoed by fans who knew every word. Phones were raised. Selfies were snapped. Videographers pulled out camcorders and flip phones, creating a DIY time capsule of the night. It felt like the early 2000s all over again.
It’s safe to say artists like Feng — and many others from the UK — are making a statement: the underground doesn’t just live in America; it thrives across the pond, too.
