Double Tap to Zoom

Stormzy recently revealed that he stopped JAY-Z from appearing on “Take Me Back To London,” his collaborative hit with Ed Sheeran. Speaking on the Jonathan Ross Show, Stormzy explained that while JAY-Z is his “number one hero inspiration" and the idea of a potential collab "blew [his] mind," he had to turn it down.

“We got into the studio and we were writing for this song," Stormzy said, adding that JAY-Z  then asked him to, "tell me about London, I need some inspiration.” Stormzy and his manager then broke down everything for the Brooklyn rapper, “from black culture, community, music, his journey, my journey."

Stormzy continued: "I was like, 'I love this song, but you being on the song changes everything. You are the most brilliant, busy man and I will probably never get this opportunity ever again but hand on my heart, I don’t think this is the right song for us.’"

Understandably, Stormzy initially regretted the decision, but ultimately accepts that it was for the best. What's more, JAY-Z was understanding: “We spoke and he made me feel [proud of what I did].”

Watch highlights from Stormzy's interview below.

Your Highsnobiety privacy settings have blocked this YouTube video.
We Recommend
  • 25 Streetwear Brands Every Highsnobiety Reader Should Know & Where To Buy Them
  • Stars & Stripes: adidas’ Latest Superstar Campaign is Stacked
  • Ungatekeeping The Best Hip-Hop Producers You Should Know About In 2024
  • Unpacking Jay-Z & PUMA's Relationship
  • 29 of Beyoncé's Best Songs for Any Given Day
What To Read Next
  • adidas’ Iconic Cleat Gets a Glow-in-the-Dark Refit
  • New Balance's Savory Slim Sneaker Is the Real Salt Bae
  • This Ain’t Crocs x Toy Story’s First Rodeo
  • New Balance’s Icy Dad Sneaker Goes off the Deep End (In a Good Way)
  • Nike's Luxe Tennis Sneaker Is the Master of Minimalism
  • This Might Be Nike's Plushest Sneaker Yet