Carving His Own Path Beyond UK Drill : Kwengface

It’s a vibrant Sunday night at Glastonbury 2025, and Kwengface is truly in his element. The Peckham rapper teams up with dance duo Overmono for their headlining set at West Holts, delivering a powerful performance of their collaboration with Joy Orbison, “Freedom 2.” Gripping the mic tightly and moving energetically across the stage, he shouts, “I love my freedom / But I’ll risk it any time I see them,” urging the thousands of fans to bring the energy.

Kwengface’s confidence during this appearance indicates he’s gained ample experience on stage. However, this is a significant comeback for the rapper, who spent the last two summers behind bars rather than performing at major events like Glastonbury and Wireless.

Rising to fame as part of the Peckham drill collective Zone 2, Kwengface (real name Ninian Martin Agyemang Fosu) eventually struck out on his own after several group members were imprisoned. He released his debut mixtape, YPB: Tha Come Up, in 2021, followed by a series of impactful tapes, singles, and notable freestyles on platforms like Daily Duppy and Mad About Bars.

A captivating performance on COLORS in March 2023 marked a turning point, as Kwengface revealed his true identity, previously concealed by a balaclava. However, shortly after, he received a 25-month prison sentence for conspiracy, a plea deal he accepted. Kwengface was released earlier this year after spending 21 months incarcerated.

The 27-year-old’s recent imprisonment was a major turning point. After spending 100 days in solitary confinement, he began to reflect on his future, immersing himself in literature and music while contemplating his newfound role as a father. This introspection culminated in his latest project, Victim Of Circumstance, created during his time at HMP Fosse Way.

“When I was in segregation, I told myself I was just a victim of circumstance because I was there for something I didn’t do,” he explained. “When you’re in there, you have time to think deeply, and it can lead to either a negative or positive outcome. For me, it was positive.”

During his time behind bars, Kwengface began mapping out his future. He drew inspiration from autobiographies of artists like Gucci Mane and 50 Cent and the book Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter. “Reading their stories motivated me. They turned their struggles into success, and I want to do the same,” he discussed. Upon his release, he was determined to embrace his role as a positive influence for his son while also deepening his lyrical content.

“I need to stay positive because I’m in a better situation than I expected, and this won’t last forever,” he added.

The work on Victim Of Circumstance began while he was still incarcerated. Collaborating with producers like Trinz and strmz, Kwengface experimented with sounds that expand beyond classic UK drill. The project incorporates high-energy dance elements and pays homage to south London legends like Blade Brown and Giggs.

Kwengface emphasized the importance of his music: “Being in the studio in prison felt similar to working outside, giving me a sense of normalcy. HMP Isis was strict, but HMP Fosse Way was more relaxed.”

On his latest album, Kwengface also highlights stories from his time inside. Jungle, a fellow Peckham rapper who spent 30 years wrongfully convicted, features on “Monstrosity.” “Jungle taught me to cherish my freedom and make the most of the situation,” Kwengface recalled. “We learned a lot from each other.”

Victim Of Circumstance is marked by revealing reflections on his life in prison. With sincerity and wit, he examines how chance occurrences could have shifted his trajectory and critiques the dehumanizing aspects of the UK prison system. He tackles serious themes with clarity and humor, illustrating the complexities of balancing musical success with the realities of incarceration.

The result is a more nuanced perspective, fully aware of the inequalities present in British society. Since gaining attention with Zone 2, Kwengface has offered insightful commentary on his experiences, but Victim Of Circumstance highlights how recent challenges have reshaped his worldview. While he’s making strides, he still grapples with the repercussions of his past, including obstacles to his planned comeback performances due to probation restrictions.

“It’s been frustrating, but I remind myself that I got out earlier than expected—my release was supposed to be in October,” he said. “I have to stay positive because I’m in a better place than I thought I’d be.”

Kwengface’s Victim Of Circumstance is now available via Zoned Out Records.