O.T & Elesia’s “Prayed Up” Is an Anthem for Resilience and Renewal
O.T & Elesia’ s collaboration with 50 Cent on “Prayed Up” is more than a song—it’s a manifesto of survival, perseverance, and faith. With its blend of Afro-urban, R&B, and hip-hop influences, the track captures the duo’s mission to inject positivity and purpose into modern music. Elesia puts it succinctly: “We aim to be a new wave of positive influence in the music industry, especially in genres that could use redirection. Motivational music that inspires people to better themselves and their circumstances is key for me.”
“Prayed Up” delivers on that promise. From the atmospheric opening to 50 Cent’s raw verse, the song feels like a spiritual rallying cry for anyone determined to rise above their challenges. The track’s production—polished yet emotionally charged—perfectly underscores its themes of struggle and triumph.
The duo’s commitment to uplifting narratives has become their trademark. Elesia’s Japanese-Australian roots and O.T’s Nigerian heritage bring a global perspective to their music, infusing it with cultural richness and depth. Elesia’s background in blending dancehall, hip-hop, and R&B and O.T’s Afrobeat-inspired sensibilities make their sound uniquely engaging. Together, they’ve carved out a space for themselves as creators of music that is as innovative as it is authentic.
The addition of 50 Cent’s verse elevates “Prayed Up” to another level. His gravelly delivery and unflinching lyrics give the track a gritty edge, driving home its message of resilience. The line “Prayed up, stay praying for my enemies” resonates as a statement of defiance and spiritual fortitude, embodying the track’s duality of vulnerability and strength.
The release of the song’s music video further solidifies its impact. Opening with a poignant acknowledgment of the land’s Traditional Owners and Elders, the video seamlessly transitions from grounded reverence to a depiction of O.T and Elesia’s journey to success. Scenes of prayer juxtaposed with moments of high-energy hustle in New York City create a visual narrative that mirrors the song’s themes.
Following the success of “Chooky,” their collaboration with Busta Rhymes, O.T & Elesia have proven they’re more than a one-hit wonder. “Prayed Up” builds on their momentum, showcasing their growth as artists and their ability to craft music that resonates across borders. Their previous chart-topping achievements—including a #1 spot on the Local Pulse Charts in major U.S. cities and a #2 ranking on the UK Hip-Hop charts—are no fluke.
O.T and Elesia’s dedication to their craft is evident in every aspect of “Prayed Up,” from its meticulously layered production to its emotionally charged lyrics. This track is more than just a moment—it’s a declaration of where they’re headed as artists who refuse to be boxed into a single genre. Their ability to weave their diverse backgrounds into a cohesive and compelling narrative sets them apart, and “Prayed Up” is their most powerful statement yet.
