Lioness has just dropped her DBT Remix and it is one of the most socially significant and impactful records, arguably since Bashy released ‘Black Boys’.
True to her name, Lioness takes a dignified, powerful and stealthy approach as she tackles colourism, marginalisation and sexism head-on. The stereotypes and insults that come with having a dark skin tone AND being a woman are not only raised but catapulted forward in this passionate, energetic and very real account, as they were in her original DBT freestyle. Alongside an incredible line up of respected black women and exceptionally talented emcees; Queenie, Stush, Shystie, Lady Leshurr & Little Simz, the remix, produced by grime lord Prince Rapid is a heavy hitting, energy-laden vibe by all accounts but lyrically it is a power anthem that should not only be heard, but listened to, and listened to closely. But are we hearing it? 
The response via social media and urban music platforms has seen an outpouring of support, praise and community for these incredible females that have gone against the grain, spoken out and empowered themselves, and those listening, with their strength and honesty. A small pocket of the grime scene is hearing it and standing proud of what is being achieved here, yet the wider media seems like it is not yet listening, proving one of the most important points that are being raised in the record.
“DBT stands for “Dead Black Ting” which is a term often used by males and females (within the black community) to describe dark skinned black women in a negative way. I decided to take over the insult and challenge an old narrative” says Lioness of the record. “DBT was made to empower dark skinned women to always feel comfortable within their skin and to know the beauty they carry in their melanin. I thought it would be amazing for other Talented Black Women to join me in spreading the message and here we are. Power in numbers.”
With such an important piece of music from our own black women being used to discuss one of the societies many “taboo” subjects, it is time we listened, learnt and opened our eyes.
LABEL: INDEPENDENT | RELEASE: OUT NOW