Novelist and Skepta Build "Diamonds Dancing" Around Baile Funk

By Cole Ashby, November 7, 2026

Novelist has released "Diamonds Dancing" featuring Skepta, the first official track from his upcoming album Scenes. Released November 1, the collaboration draws on the energy of Brazilian baile funk, bringing the two UK artists together around a rhythmic idea that started outside the studio.

According to the release, Skepta showed Novelist a TikTok of footballer Lamine Yamal dancing. The clip prompted a direct response from the pair: "We need one of those." Novelist then flew to Ibiza to make the track with Skepta, shortly before Skepta's headline Mas Tiempo residency at Hï Ibiza.

From Ibiza to Scenes

The recording took shape around Skepta's verse. Novelist used its opening word, "Dance," as a recurring refrain, building a repeated phrase that reflects the repetition of Brazilian funk beats. The song also references Prestige, Novelist's local barbershop, bringing a familiar neighborhood detail into a collaboration made away from home.

That combination of local reference points and different musical influences carries into the broader album campaign. The release describes Scenes as a project connecting the sounds, experiences and observations that have shaped Novelist's life, with individual tracks contributing to a larger narrative.

"Scenes captures an era of my life through the lens of living every day like a movie," Novelist says in the release. "The album explores love, political unrest and distrust of those in power, alongside metaphysical theories, prayer and a mother's perspective."

He adds: "Local troubles sit alongside good vibes, reflecting the joy that persists amid everyday struggles. Each track unfolds as a scene in one ongoing film."

An independent next chapter

The Lewisham artist first emerged with grime collective The Square before developing his career as an MC, producer and independent artist. His 2018 debut Novelist Guy, written, produced and released through his own MMMYEH Records label, earned a Mercury Prize shortlist placement.

"Diamonds Dancing" introduces the next chapter without losing that independent foundation. The single is available across major streaming platforms, offering the first official entry point into the world of Scenes.

Novelist featuring Skepta: Diamonds Dancing