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Proklaim, a boundary-pushing artist from Windhoek, Namibia, takes a bold artistic turn with “Bitter Sweet,” released on February 4, 2025. Known for gritty hip-hop anthems, this single reveals a different side—more vulnerable, melodic, and emotionally charged. Recorded at Pen Pushaz Studios and polished by Wojtek Majewski at Audio Art Namibia, the track reflects a new level of creative maturity.
Driven by a compelling sample that immediately hooks the ear, the song explores love not as an ideal, but as a mix of highs and lows. Proklaim’s opening lines—“wanna win a race, you pace it”—set the tone for reflection and growth. The track’s structure is simple yet effective: tightly delivered rap verses contrast with smooth, melodic choruses, creating a back-and-forth that mirrors love’s unpredictable nature.
Musically, “Bitter Sweet” leans on a mellow beat with subtle guitar licks and soft bass, giving the track a warm, relaxed feeling. This understated production allows Proklaim’s lyrics to take center stage. The chorus—focused on “holding on” and “rolling on”—invites listeners to sit with their emotions rather than run from them. It’s a message that feels both personal and universal.
Interestingly, this single marks one of Proklaim’s most melodic deliveries to date. While rap remains central, the added vocal harmonies suggest growth and versatility. The production avoids heavy effects, which gives the track a raw, natural quality—one that feels honest rather than polished for perfection.
In the end, “Bitter Sweet” succeeds not only as a love song but as a moment of artistic evolution. It shows that Proklaim is unafraid to stretch beyond genre boundaries, blending elements of Emo Rap, Retro Soul, and R&B into something unique. This track doesn’t just work—it lingers. It leaves listeners with something to feel and something to think about. A risk well taken.
