“I been gone for a while, but I still make it back to you…” are the opening words in Pa Salieu’s latest song “Belly”, marking his triumphant return to the music scene. The line speaks to the resilience and determination that have defined his career. His return is more than a musical comeback; it’s a statement of growth, renewal, and his strong bond with listeners.
Pa Salieu Gaye, born on July 1, 1997, is a British-Gambian rapper known for his unique sound and storytelling. His distinct style has made him a standout in the UK music scene. He was named after his father’s older brother, Pa Salieu, a young police officer who tragically died in his early twenties. Raised in Coventry after spending his early childhood in The Gambia, Salieu draws heavily from his diverse cultural background. His music blends Afro-beats, grime, and UK drill, creating a sound that sets him apart from his peers.
After the tragic death of a close friend who urged him to leave street life for music, Pa Salieu decided to focus on his music. Motivated by this loss, he recorded his first freestyle at a friend’s home studio. He spent countless hours there, writing and recording tracks. His breakout single “Frontline” became the most-played track on BBC Radio 1Xtra in 2020, propelling him into the spotlight. With a debut mixtape titled Send Them to Coventry, he captures the raw realities of life in his community, addressing themes of resilience and identity. His rise was halted when he was sentenced in 2022 for an incident involving violent disorder and an offensive weapon.
Rising from the Ashes
In October 2019, gunmen shot Pa Salieu in the head in Coventry. Despite the severity of the injury, he survived and made a remarkable recovery. In September 2018, someone fatally stabbed his friend Fidel Glasgow outside a nightclub. In response, Pa and a group of men chased another individual from the scene. Pa admitted to hitting the man with a tree branch and breaking a bottle in self-defense. This incident later led to his conviction in December 2022 for violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon, resulting in a 33-month prison sentence.
On September 2nd, 2024, Pa Salieu marked his return, announcing it through his social media platforms. Just 48 hours after his release, he dropped his comeback single, “Belly,” which is already gaining traction across all streaming platforms. “Belly” is a powerful single that explains his struggles.
Pa Salieu is reportedly working on new music, building anticipation for his upcoming releases. Following his successful return with “Belly,” fans eagerly await his next projects, expecting more of his style and sounds.
