Mustafa Collaborates With James Blake for "Come Back" Single

Back in March, 23-year-old Toronto-based Muslim poet Mustafa burst onto the scene with his debut single “Stay Alive” featuring production from Frank Dukes and James Blake. The soulful first entry into his growing catalog was poised and minimalist, detailing the effort to keep one’s head above water while maneuvering through street life and violence. Now Mustafa’s back with his next offering, “Come Back” featuring backing vocals and piano by Blake. The intimate studio session was directed by frequent Kanye West collaborator, Australian-American filmmaker Nabil Elderkin.

“Perpetually grateful for James who helped free me of my own emotional burdens when I was young, to now helping me free these stories of those who’ve passed too young. Today marks two years without Smoke Dawg. I pray the people you lost come back to you in the form that heals you best, if not a memory, a dream, if not a dream, in their siblings eyes, if not that, than in the way you carry yourself,” Mustafa said of the track.

Back in March 2019, Mustafa released his 11-minute short film Remember Me, Toronto featuring Drake, Baka Not Nice with a score from Noah “40” Shebib in a tribute to Smoke Dawg. It’s still unclear as to whether “Come Back” will be apart of a larger effort from the rising poet turned singer-songwriter, but it’s a resounding statement on the moving emotionality that’s to come. Watch the full studio session above.

In more music news, Kanye West has delivered his first single from his upcoming album God’s Country with “Wash Us in the Blood” featuring Travis Scott, production from Dr. Dre and a visual directed by artist Arthur Jafa.