In this new entry in our ‘Diamonds In The Rough’ category, we would like to introduce you to upcoming artist Zed4 and his brand new single titled “Seaside”.
Get ready to experience a fresh sound and an unfiltered glimpse into the life of one of Portsmouth’s most promising up-and-coming artists. Zed4 has just released his highly anticipated single “Seaside”, marking a significant milestone in his musical journey. This is not just a new track—it’s an emotional reflection of his roots, his friendships, and his growth as an artist.
“Seaside” is a personal narrative that blends the gritty essence of UK rap with a deeper emotional connection to Zed4’s hometown. From the very first listen, the song captures the unique vibe of Portsmouth, bringing listeners into Zed4’s world. Written in just a few hours, the track flows effortlessly over a beat produced by SANII, which plays a major role in making the writing process feel natural and unhindered. The result is a song that feels honest, powerful, and grounded, with lyrics that speak to the essence of growing up in Portsmouth.
But “Seaside” is more than just a track—it’s Zed4’s official introduction to the visual side of his music career. For the first time, Zed4 opens up on camera, giving fans an intimate look at his life and surroundings through his debut music video. Directed by Kartel from APC Visuals, the video is as raw and authentic as the song itself, showcasing Portsmouth in its most iconic form, including a stunning shot of the Spinnaker Tower, which Zed4 specifically wanted to feature. The visual aesthetic perfectly complements the reflective tone of the track, blending the hard-hitting UK rap energy with a sense of nostalgia and pride.
Zed4’s journey as an artist began at the age of 14, when he first started writing lyrics and experimenting with freestyle. His early influences—legendary UK artists like JME, Skepta, and Dave—shaped his distinct style. From small, humble beginnings, recording in a room, to now releasing his first official music video, Zed4 has always remained true to his roots. His sound has evolved over the years, moving from fast-paced UK rap to a more melodic, R&B-infused fusion of rap that fans can expect to hear on future releases. “Seaside” is just the beginning of a new chapter for the artist, as he’s set to continue making music that feels authentic to who he is and where he’s from.
As he gears up for more releases and performances, Zed4’s dedication to his craft is undeniable. Though he hasn’t had significant performance opportunities yet, his passion for the process—writing, recording, filming—keeps him driven to elevate his career. Fans can look forward to more music, visuals, and live shows in the near future as Zed4 continues to build his presence in the UK rap scene.
With “Seaside”, Zed4 invites listeners to join him on a journey through his personal history and the city that shaped him. It’s a track that speaks to anyone who’s ever looked back at their roots with pride and gratitude, and a song that marks the start of what promises to be an exciting career.
Check out the music video below—Zed4 is just getting started, and this is only the beginning of what’s to come: