Ed Accura is back as he looks to release his new single, ‘1 Life’, a collaborative hip-hop enthused single which features contributions from a multitude of rising artists. The single is set to feature in Accura’s forthcoming documentary, ‘No Lifeguard’.
Fusing R&B and hip-hop, ‘1 LIFE’ emerges with a fiery backbone and elusive energy with its cinematic approach to flow and melody. Coupling slick toplines with a hearty meaning, the single is penned to raise awareness about the purity of life and how the choices we make are guaranteed to shape our journey. Holding collaboration at its heart, the single sports contributions from the likes of MAXOO, GOLDEY ONE4, SAMSON ALEXANDER, BOY SAYSO & EMARVELLOUS, giving ‘1 LIFE’ a rich sonic body, adding layer upon layer of melodic texture.
The release looks to bolster Ed’s previous releases, which have championed water safety initiatives, including ‘No Lifeguard’, a powerful single emploring the importance of security around the water, a public service announcement in musical form. In addition to this, Ed also played a pivotal role in the creation of ‘Blacks Can’t Swim’, highlighting the disparities in swimming within Black and Asian communities.
Speaking about the collaborative nature of the project, as well as the meaning behind the single, Ed explains, “‘1 LIFE’ featuring MAXOO, GOLDEY ONE4, SAMSON ALEXANDER, BOY SAYSO, & EMARVELLOUS, a hard-hitting release that centres on the reality that we only get one shot at this life. Built around urgency, accountability, and self-awareness, it reflects the mindset of taking control, making choices that matter, and understanding that no one else is responsible for your path but you.”
About the Artist:
Ed Accura is a multifaceted British documentarian known for his contributions to using various media to highlight the issue of diversity in the aquatics sector. As a songwriter, producer, and filmmaker, he has made significant strides in addressing important issues while inspiring change through his creative endeavours.
Born in London and later raised in the UK and Ghana, Ed’s musical journey began in the ’90s, where his artistry evolved from producing experimental avant-garde to hip-hop sounds. Co-founding the UK hip-hop crew, 617, and launching Accura Records, he showcased his versatility across music genres. In 2010, Ed transitioned his focus to creating socially conscious music, aligning his art with social awareness and advocacy.
Ed’s journey into social advocacy gained momentum in 2016 with the song “Bear A Witness,” dedicated to a homeless individual. The Bear A Witness campaign was launched to encourage the general public to show an act of kindness when they came in contact with a homeless rough sleeper.
The pivotal moment came during a holiday in Barbados in 2018, where he wrote the song “A Film Called Black Can’t Swim,” sparking the creation of impactful documentaries highlighting disparities in swimming within African, Caribbean, and Asian communities.
Engaging the youth can lead to a more sustainable and widespread appreciation for aquatic environments and activities. Ed Accura’s dedication to social awareness, storytelling, and advocacy has positioned him as a transformative force in both the music and aquatics spheres. Through his ongoing endeavours, Ed continues to drive impactful change, challenge perceptions, and inspire communities to embrace the importance of water safety and swimming.
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