Fifteen years after its original release, Gyptian's 2010 hit "Hold Yuh" is experiencing a resurgence, thanks to a viral video featuring British pop star Ed Sheeran.
Captured during a spontaneous street performance in London, the clip shows Sheeran collaborating with DJ AG to deliver a remix of the dancehall classic. The video, which has garnered significant attention on TikTok and other social media platforms, has catapulted Gyptian back into the spotlight.
Gyptian, born Windel Beneto Edwards, has acknowledged Sheeran's rendition by reposting the performance on his Instagram story, signaling his appreciation for the homage. This isn't Sheeran's first foray into dancehall; in 2022, he collaborated with Jamaican artist Ishawna on the track "Brace," following his public admiration for her remix of his song "Shape of You."
Originally released in 2010, "Hold Yuh" achieved international success, peaking at number 77 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 16 on the UK Singles Chart. The song's popularity was further amplified by a remix featuring American/Trinidadian rapper Nicki Minaj. In 2013, it was certified Gold in the United States and later achieved Platinum status in the United Kingdom.
Beyond "Hold Yuh," Gyptian has continued to produce music and garner fans worldwide. In recent months, he has released singles such as "Wanna Keep It" and "Changes," both now available on all major streaming platforms.
Gyptian's career began in the early 2000s, with his signature style, condensing reggae, dancehall, and lovers rock, earning him a dedicated following. His debut album, "My Name Is Gyptian," released in 2006, featured crowd pleasers including "Is There a Place" and "Serious Times." Over the years, he has been recognized for his contributions to the genre, including a nomination for Best New Entertainer at the 2006 International Reggae and World Music Awards.
The recent viral moment shows the longevity of his music and Gyptian's lasting impact on the industry. As "Hold Yuh" finds new audiences, both old and new fans are reminded of the song's infectious rhythm and Gyptian's distinctive voice that continues to captivate listeners around the globe.