Irish hip-hop sensation KeSTine unveils his powerful new single “Options” on November 1st, a deeply personal track that contemplates the crossroads we face in life, urging listeners to find strength amid grief and hardship. This latest release, anticipates his forthcoming full-length project ‘Another Season’, set to launch on November 15th.
Drawing from his own experiences following the recent loss of his grandmother, KeSTine reflects on the celebration of life he witnessed during his return to Nigeria. In his words, “Options” is “a soulful rendition speaking on the choices we, as people, can decide to take on life. In the midst of pain, I must either accept gratitude or anger.” Witnessing Nigerian funeral rituals shifted KeSTine’s view on death, transforming sorrow into an appreciation for life’s fleeting beauty and imbuing the single with themes of hope and acceptance.
Another Season, engineered by Outsider Yp, marks a bold new chapter for KeSTine. Known for his unique Irish hip-hop sound, influenced by the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Kojey Radical, and the rich textures of South African Amapiano, KeSTine explores themes of faith, loss, and generational legacy. His signature blend of soulful instrumentals and animated beats resonates throughout the LP, merging reflective lyrics with forward-thinking production.
KeSTine’s evolution from a young Cork rapper to an award-winning artist recognized at the Rome Music Video Awards reflects a journey steeped in resilience and passion. Having graced stages at Electric Picnic, Indiependence, and other major UK and Irish festivals, KeSTine is poised to claim his throne in the Irish hip-hop scene with Another Season.
BIO
At a very young age, Cork rapper KeSTine quickly became fascinated by music from the early 90s, and the essence of early hip hop, reggae and his idol, Michael Jackson. Kestine was often teased in primary school for his youthful admiration of Michael Jackson, which pushed him to begin rapping. Rap became an outlet that he used to vent out his frustrations. His solo EP ‘Reflection’ was released in April of 2021, and received high appraisal from Hot Press Magazine, Golden Plec, Irish Times , Echo live and the Irish examiner.
