Valentine’s Woes With Palmer1 On ‘Addicted’

Love and HipHop go hand in hand. Whether it’s rappers confessing their feelings to their muse or teaming up with soulful R&B artists, the relationship goes way back. Whether its Nasty C on “Mrs.Me,” promising his muse to always put butterflies in her tummy or, “KoroKoro” where Prettyboy D-O expresses the joyful, magnetic side of love rappers do shed their gangster skin for a bouquet of roses once in a while. On Valentine’s day the HipHop Africa Newsroom created an intimate playlist proving this symbiotic relationship and while creating this playlist I came across ‘Addicted. An EP from flawless underground rapper Palmer1.

Released in August 2024, the six track EP is a plethora of emotional and pure songs yet embody the gangster personality that comes with being a rapper. “No matter what you say I stick to my woman,” Palmer1 assures his fans as he kicks off the project. The EP equal parts vibrant, introspective, and emotionally charged. Blending elements of hip-hop, and R&B, PALMER 1 showcases his versatility as an artist, navigating themes of love, resilience, and personal growth while maintaining an infectious energy that keeps the listener engaged from start to finish.

The EP’s title, Addicted, suggests a deep, unwavering passion, whether for love, success, or music itself. Throughout the project, PALMER 1 and his collaborators explore the highs and lows of relationships, personal struggles, and the quest for self-improvement, all set against a backdrop of slick production, catchy melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. Each track brings something unique to the project, whether it’s an energetic opener, a love-infused ballad, or a deep reflection on personal growth. With guest appearances from Outlaw, A.GK, GTB Emzee, and Lecco, the EP highlights collaborative chemistry, allowing PALMER 1 to shine while also giving space to his fellow artists. The EP kicks off with “Niskize”, an electrifying introduction that immediately commands attention. The production is vibrant, fusing traditional African rhythms with modern Afrobeat and hip-hop elements. The beat is pulsating, energetic, and full of movement, setting the perfect stage for PALMER 1’s commanding delivery. His lyrics exude confidence as he asserts his presence and demands to be heard, making it clear that he’s an artist with something to say. The track feels like an anthem of self-assurance and ambition, drawing listeners in with its infectious rhythm and engaging wordplay. Right from the start, PALMER 1 establishes himself as a force to be reckoned with.

In contrast to the high-energy opener, “Better” slows things down slightly, offering a reflective and introspective moment on the EP. This track revolves around themes of self-improvement, resilience, and overcoming obstacles. PALMER 1’s delivery is both calm and assertive, mirroring the song’s message of steady progress and personal evolution. The smooth, melodic beat provides a soothing backdrop to his lyrics, allowing the emotion in his words to shine through. As he speaks on his journey, listeners can relate to the idea of pushing through hardships to emerge stronger. The chorus is uplifting and memorable, reinforcing the song’s theme of perseverance.With “YOUNG IN LUV”, PALMER 1 shifts gears into a more playful and romantic direction. Featuring Outlaw, this track captures the excitement, passion, and naivety of young love. The instrumental is bright and bouncy, complementing the carefree energy of the lyrics. Both artists deliver verses filled with charm and enthusiasm, perfectly embodying the emotions that come with falling for someone at a young age. The chorus is catchy and effortlessly singable, making it a track that sticks with the listener. It’s a feel-good song that encapsulates the joy and uncertainty of youthful romance, making it one of the standout moments on the EP.

“AURA” takes the EP in a more spiritual and introspective direction, delving into themes of personal energy, confidence, and influence. Featuring GTB Emzee, the song has a hypnotic, almost mystical quality to it, thanks to its atmospheric production and layered instrumentation. PALMER 1 and GTB Emzee explore how their vibe and presence affect the world around them, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself and maintaining a strong personal identity. The lyrics are reflective yet assertive, making this track a powerful statement about self-worth and inner strength. With its dreamlike beat and compelling verses, “AURA” stands out as one of the more thought-provoking moments on the EP.

The EP closes on a high-energy, celebratory note with “2 BY 2”, featuring Lecco and A.GK. This track is all about partnership, unity, and moving through life with a solid team by your side. The beat is infectious, urging listeners to get up and dance, while the lyrics reinforce themes of loyalty and camaraderie. PALMER 1, Lecco, and A.GK complement each other perfectly, each bringing their own unique flavor to the song. The energy is contagious, making this the perfect track to end the project on an upbeat and exhilarating note. It leaves the listener feeling empowered, uplifted, and ready to take on the world.

‘Addicted‘ is a cohesive and well-executed project that showcases PALMER 1’s versatility, lyrical depth, and ability to create infectious melodies. Each track feels distinct yet connected, forming a narrative that explores themes of love, self-improvement, confidence, and unity. The collaborations throughout the EP add richness and variety, ensuring that no two songs sound the same.

One of PALMER 1’s greatest strengths is his ability to blend genres, seamlessly incorporating hip-hop, and contemporary R&B into his sound. His storytelling is relatable, his delivery is engaging, and his production choices are top-notch. Whether he’s reflecting on personal growth, expressing romantic devotion, or celebrating friendship, his authenticity shines through in every track.

Stream ‘Addicted’