Yungen represents the sleek, aspirational side of the UK rap scene. His sound is a high-definition blend of sharp lyricism and infectious, R&B-inflected melodies that feel equally at home on a festival stage or a late-night radio rotation. There is an unmistakable polish to his work, characterized by clean production and a confident, effortless flow that rarely breaks a sweat even when the tempo climbs.
What sets him apart is his ability to pivot between the hard-hitting bars of his SB.TV roots and the chart-topping appeal of tracks like Bestie. He masters the 'Afroswing' influence without losing his South London identity, using shimmering synths and heavy basslines to create a backdrop for stories of success, loyalty, and romance. It is music that feels expensive, designed for moments of celebration and social connection.
Start with the Project Black & Red era to hear his technical foundation, then move into his massive singles to experience the melodic evolution that made him a household name. It is the ideal soundtrack for anyone who appreciates the intersection of grime's energy and pop's accessibility.
Clive James "CJ" Brooks (born 1 February 1992), known professionally as Yungen, is a British rapper, singer and songwriter from Herne Hill, South London. He first gained recognition for his 2011 freestyle video for SB.TV and in 2015 was nominated for Best Newcomer at the MOBO Awards. His 2017 song "Bestie" featuring Yxng Bane reached top 10 in the UK Singles Chart in October and became his first platinum single in February 2018.
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); confident, playful, romantic (moods)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); confident, playful, romantic (moods)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
Shares confident, playful, romantic (moods); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
Shares pop rap, contemporary r&b, trap (subgenres); studio polished, digital clarity, maximalist (production style)
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