Hakeem Martin and small village’s ‘Selfish’ Is A Defiant Anthem for the Overlooked Soul

There is a particular kind of courage required to place your own well-being ahead of the expectations of others. On Selfish, the second single from Untitled Soul Project, Hakeem Martin and small village transform that difficult act into something powerful, poetic, and strangely liberating. What could have easily become a straightforward meditation on self-care instead emerges as a stirring anthem for anyone who has ever lost themselves in the pursuit of pleasing everyone else.

The production is immediately striking. small village constructs a sonic landscape where rugged electric guitar textures collide with forceful drum patterns and shadowy hip-hop foundations. The result feels both contemporary and timeless, carrying the rebellious spirit of rock music while remaining deeply rooted in hip-hop's tradition of personal storytelling. Every sound appears intentional, serving the emotional core of the song rather than distracting from it.

At the center stands Hakeem Martin, delivering verses with conviction and vulnerability in equal measure. His writing navigates themes of self-worth, emotional exhaustion, and personal boundaries without resorting to clichés. There is a refreshing honesty in the way he examines the cost of constantly accommodating others, allowing listeners to recognize fragments of their own experiences within his narrative.

What elevates Selfish beyond introspection is its unforgettable hook. It lingers long after the track ends, functioning almost like a mantra repeated to reclaim confidence and identity. The repetition becomes cathartic, turning personal reflection into collective affirmation. It is the kind of chorus that quietly follows you throughout the day.

As a preview of Untitled Soul Project, Selfish is immensely promising. It showcases the creative chemistry between Hakeem Martin and small village while highlighting their ability to fuse emotional depth with compelling musicality. More than a song about choosing yourself, it is a reminder that self-respect should never require an apology.