**Read All About It (song)**
**Definition:**
„Read All About It” is a song by British rapper Professor Green featuring vocals from singer Emeli Sandé. Released in 2011, the track blends hip-hop and soul elements and explores themes of personal struggle, self-expression, and overcoming adversity.
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# Read All About It (song)
## Background and Release
„Read All About It” is a single by British rapper Professor Green, featuring the powerful vocals of Scottish singer-songwriter Emeli Sandé. The song was released on 19 September 2011 as the lead single from Professor Green’s second studio album, *At Your Inconvenience*. It marked a significant moment in Professor Green’s career, showcasing a more introspective and emotional side compared to his earlier work.
The collaboration between Professor Green and Emeli Sandé was highly anticipated, as both artists were gaining prominence in the UK music scene. Emeli Sandé, known for her soulful voice and poignant songwriting, contributed a memorable chorus that complemented Professor Green’s candid verses. The song was produced by Alex 'Cores’ Hayes and Mike Spencer, who helped craft a sound that combined hip-hop beats with orchestral and piano elements.
## Composition and Lyrics
„Read All About It” is a mid-tempo hip-hop ballad that incorporates elements of soul and pop. The song is built around a piano-driven melody, layered with strings and a steady drumbeat, creating an emotive and anthemic atmosphere. The production emphasizes the contrast between Professor Green’s rap verses and Emeli Sandé’s soaring chorus.
Lyrically, the song is autobiographical and deeply personal. Professor Green uses the track to address his struggles with self-expression, family issues, and the pressures of fame. The title phrase, „Read All About It,” is a metaphor for the public scrutiny and media attention he faced, as well as a call to openly share one’s story. The lyrics encourage listeners to confront their fears and speak their truth, promoting themes of resilience and empowerment.
Emeli Sandé’s chorus serves as a powerful refrain, urging listeners to „read all about it” and not be silenced by hardship or judgment. The song’s message resonates with a wide audience, particularly those who have experienced personal challenges or felt marginalized.
## Critical Reception
Upon its release, „Read All About It” received positive reviews from music critics. Many praised the song for its emotional depth and the chemistry between Professor Green and Emeli Sandé. Critics highlighted the track’s ability to blend rap with soulful melodies, creating a crossover appeal that broadened Professor Green’s fan base.
The song was noted for its honest and vulnerable lyrics, which stood out in the hip-hop genre. Emeli Sandé’s vocal performance was widely acclaimed, with reviewers commending her ability to elevate the song’s emotional impact. Some critics described „Read All About It” as one of the standout tracks of 2011, citing its inspirational message and memorable hook.
## Commercial Performance
„Read All About It” achieved commercial success in the United Kingdom and several other countries. It debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart, becoming Professor Green’s first chart-topping single. The song also reached the top ten in Ireland and charted in various European countries.
The single’s success was bolstered by extensive radio airplay and television performances. It became one of the best-selling singles of 2011 in the UK and contributed significantly to the commercial performance of the album *At Your Inconvenience*. The song’s popularity helped solidify Professor Green’s status as a mainstream artist and introduced Emeli Sandé to a wider audience.
## Music Video
The music video for „Read All About It” was directed by Emil Nava and released in August 2011. It features a narrative that complements the song’s themes of struggle and self-expression. The video depicts Professor Green in various urban settings, interspersed with scenes of individuals facing personal challenges.
Emeli Sandé appears in the video, delivering the chorus with emotive intensity. The visual style is cinematic, using muted colors and dramatic lighting to enhance the song’s mood. The video received positive feedback for its storytelling and production quality, further promoting the single.
## Live Performances
Professor Green and Emeli Sandé performed „Read All About It” live on several occasions, including television shows and music festivals. Notably, their performance on the BBC’s *Later… with Jools Holland* was praised for its raw emotion and vocal delivery.
The song became a staple in both artists’ live sets, often eliciting strong audience reactions due to its relatable lyrics and anthemic chorus. The live renditions sometimes featured extended vocal sections by Emeli Sandé, highlighting her soulful style.
## Legacy and Impact
„Read All About It” is regarded as one of Professor Green’s signature songs and a defining track of early 2010s British hip-hop. Its success helped bridge the gap between rap and mainstream pop music in the UK, influencing other artists to explore more personal and introspective themes in their work.
The song’s message of overcoming adversity and speaking out has resonated with listeners beyond its initial release period. It has been used in various media contexts, including television programs and charity campaigns, underscoring its inspirational quality.
Emeli Sandé’s involvement in the track also contributed to her rise as a prominent vocalist and songwriter. The collaboration showcased her ability to blend genres and connect with diverse audiences.
## Track Listings
The single was released in various formats, including digital download and CD single. The track listings typically included:
1. „Read All About It” (featuring Emeli Sandé) – 4:08
2. „Read All About It” (Acoustic Version) – 3:50
3. „Read All About It” (Instrumental) – 4:08
Some editions also featured remixes and additional B-sides.
## Personnel
– **Vocals:** Professor Green, Emeli Sandé
– **Producers:** Alex 'Cores’ Hayes, Mike Spencer
– **Songwriters:** Stephen Manderson (Professor Green), Emeli Sandé, Alex 'Cores’ Hayes
– **Mixing Engineer:** Mike Spencer
– **Mastering Engineer:** [Name not publicly specified]
## Charts and Certifications
### Weekly Charts
– UK Singles Chart: #1
– Irish Singles Chart: Top 10
– Other European charts: Top 40 placements
### Year-End Charts
– UK Year-End Singles Chart 2011: Top 20
### Certifications
– UK: Platinum (indicating sales exceeding 600,000 units)
## Conclusion
„Read All About It” stands as a significant work in the discographies of both Professor Green and Emeli Sandé. Its blend of heartfelt lyrics, compelling vocals, and polished production created a song that resonated widely with audiences. The track’s success helped elevate British hip-hop’s profile and demonstrated the power of music as a medium for personal storytelling and empowerment.
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**Meta Description:**
„Read All About It” is a 2011 song by Professor Green featuring Emeli Sandé, known for its emotional lyrics and blend of hip-hop and soul. The track achieved commercial success and critical acclaim in the UK.