Ramz’s “Barking” Changed UK Afroswing Forever

South London artist Ramz has officially taken over UK airwaves with his debut single “Barking,” released on December 1, 2017 via Polydor Records. The track has climbed to Number 2 on the Official UK Singles Chart and has been certified double-platinum, making Ramz one of the most successful new voices in the UK Afroswing scene this year.

The Release

“Barking” is a masterclass in melodic UK rap. Produced by Multi, the track pairs a bouncy, infectious rhythm with Ramz’s signature laid-back delivery. The song tells a relatable story of modern romance, name-checking several London boroughs as the narrator tries to connect with a love interest. It’s a simple concept, but the execution is what sets it apart from the pack.

The hook is the kind that gets stuck in your head after one listen. Ramz sings with a smoothness that feels almost effortless, contrasting sharply with the harder-edged delivery common across much of UK hip-hop at the time. The production underneath is clean and rhythmic, built for both radio and club play without sacrificing street credibility.

What makes “Barking” particularly striking is its authenticity. The accompanying music video showcases vibrant London culture, capturing everyday scenes that feel genuine rather than staged. It has amassed tens of millions of views across platforms since its release. The track’s journey from viral underground sensation to mainstream smash happened quickly, but the quality was evident from the start.

The song also earned Ramz a BRIT Award nomination for Single of the Year. That nod cemented its status as one of the defining UK tracks of the year. For a debut single, that level of recognition is rare. For a genre often overlooked by mainstream award bodies, it was a significant milestone.

About Ramz

Born Ramone Rochester in Mitcham, South London, Ramz didn’t start with music as his primary focus. He was studying Sports Development at the University of Portsmouth when he began writing lyrics. That background in sports might explain his patience and discipline when approaching his craft. He shifted fully to music after realizing where his true passion lay.

His songwriting structure is notably gentler and more self-reflective than many of his UK rap peers. He doesn’t rely on aggression or bravado. Instead, he leans into melody and honesty. That approach has made him an influential figure in the evolution of modern Afroswing, a genre that blends African rhythms with UK street sensibilities. His sound is accessible without being watered down.

Industry Context

The success of “Barking” did not happen in a vacuum. UK Afroswing was already bubbling under the surface, but Ramz helped push it into the mainstream conversation. His commercial performance proved that melodic, rhythm-driven UK music could compete with the heavier drill sounds that dominated the charts. That shift mattered for the wider landscape of British music.

Ramz arrived at a moment when streaming was reshaping how hits were made. “Barking” benefited from playlist placements and viral social media traction, but it also had genuine crossover appeal. The track resonated beyond London, finding audiences across the country and internationally. Its double-platinum certification in the UK is proof of sustained listenership, not just a one-week spike.

For independent artists watching from the outside, Ramz’s trajectory offered a blueprint. He started with a self-released track that gained organic momentum, then signed to a major label for wider distribution. The path from viral moment to polished release is not new, but Ramz navigated it with a clear artistic identity intact.

The genre itself benefited from the attention. Afroswing artists suddenly had a larger platform to stand on. Ramz did not just open a door for himself. He widened the doorway for an entire generation of UK artists blending African and British influences into something fresh.

Stream It

“Barking” is available now on all major streaming platforms worldwide. The track remains a staple in UK playlists and a defining example of modern British rap.

Give “Barking” a spin if you haven’t already. It is a certified modern classic that still hits just as hard today as it did on day one.

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