PS Hitsquad ft: Cristale - Popeye (Official Video)

Photo Credit: Fynn French Collins

Peckham’s own PS Hitsquad is back in full force with ‘Popeye’, a punchy new single that links him up with Brixton’s Cristale for a sharp, high energy showcase of UK rap at its most playful and precise.

Built during a spontaneous studio session, ‘Popeye’ thrives on raw, unfiltered chemistry. PS and Cristale go bar for bar over a restless, collaborative beat crafted alongside Sebz Beats, where bright horn stabs meet low slung bass and a looping Popeye chuckle adds a mischievous edge. It’s unpredictable, animated, and confidently left field, a snapshot of where the so called “post-drill” sound is heading.

Lyrically, both artists are in top form, weaving cartoon references into slick wordplay without losing bite. There’s a sense of competition, but also camaraderie, two voices clearly enjoying the moment while pushing each other forward.

The visuals match that energy. Directed by Billy Howard Price, the video blends bold graphics, animated silhouettes and quick cut estate scenes, framing PS and Cristale’s exchange like a playful back and forth between old friends, somewhere between Channel U grit and Saturday morning cartoons.

Underneath the colour and charisma, there’s substance. As PS puts it, ‘Popeye’ is rooted in resilience, a reflection on staying sharp and self reliant in testing environments, with the cartoon motif doubling as a metaphor for inner strength.

It’s another strong step in PS Hitsquad’s steady evolution. From his early days with Zone 2 to breakout moments like ‘Guten Tag’, he’s built a reputation on consistency and presence rather than overnight hype. Now, with a new chapter underway and a debut album on the horizon, ‘Popeye’ feels like both a statement and a teaser.

If this is the direction PS is heading in, UK rap’s next wave is looking seriously exciting.