Yelhomie recently released Run It Up, his latest single. Yelhomie is one of the most unapologetic voices rising out of Imphal, Manipur. Produced by SKar, Run It Up combines fierce lyricism with an unflinching look at today’s youth’s struggles.
In this track, Yelhomie delivers an unapologetic and raw commentary on power structures, societal issues, and the frustration young people feel, especially in his home state of Manipur. With lines like “Youngin’ Naavas only vote with the bird,” he brings attention to the distrust that many in his generation feel toward the system.
But Run It Up isn’t just a song, it’s a declaration. It’s a voice for the unheard, a testament to Yelhomie’s unwavering ambition, and a proud celebration of Eastern cultural identity. His flow captures the energy and struggles of his generation, making it clear that he's here to stay in the rap game.
Run It Up is the second single from Yelhomie’s highly anticipated debut project.
Run it Up - The Creative Process Behind the Song
The creation of Run It Up was driven by Yelhomie’s desire to give voice to the struggles and dreams of his generation. Inspired by the resilience of his people in Manipur, he approached this song as an unapologetic expression of truth, determination, and solidarity. Keeping in mind that the track should be fun, it blends well with good music which you can jam to and the unfiltered truth of the system and his surroundings. In a world where young people are often misled and misunderstood, Yelhomie wanted Run It Up to serve as both, a fountain of truth and a roadmap for anyone striving to rise above theircircumstances.
The songwriting process began with raw reflections on his surroundings political turmoil, social constraints, and the unbreakable spirit of those who refuse to be sidelined. Yelhomie channeled these emotions into his verses, addressing the influences that hold back the youth and using his own experiences to call for focus and resilience.
With each verse, Yelhomie digs deeper into his roots, crafting a message that represents not just his own tribe, but all the tribes of the East. He sees himself as a “voice of the people” and aims to carry their spirit forward. His focus was on creating something meaningful an anthem that motivates listeners to hold on to their goals and never let distractions pull them away from their dreams.
The production, helmed by SKar under Naava Records, provided the perfect sonic landscape for Yelhomie’s bold and unfiltered verses. Together, they constructed a beat that embodies intensity and drive, matching the song’s message of relentless pursuit and self-belief. The synergy between Yelhomie’s powerful lyrics and SKar’s dynamic production made Run It Up not only a personal statement but also a declaration of hope and defiance for anyone who feels marginalized.
Thiyam James, who goes by the moniker of Yelhomie (derived from the word Yelhoumee, meaning indigenous people) is a rapper from the Manipur, Northeast India. Conscious rap being his preference, Yelhomie represents the eastside of India in his raps and acts as an outlet for the voiceless. He has released many singles and EPs wherein he touches many topics from discrimination to errors of the government and out of which some are sensitive to the general public.
His recent release, Is India My Home? speaks about the proxy war that's been going on in Manipur for the past 15 months and the negligence of the government and the public eye. Don't mistake, it's not only conscious rap he is fluent in, Yelhomie makes some serious party joints that you wouldn't want to miss bopping your head to.
The official Run It Up music video is now live on YouTube! You can check it out below, and stream the track on all major platforms, attached is the press kit with the lyrics and creative process for your reference.
Watch the Official Music Video on YouTube: