“212 (feat. Lazy Jay)”: A Breakout Hit by Azealia Banks

Lazy Jay consists of Belgian brothers Jef Martens and Joachim Martens, known for their work in the electronic music scene. The duo gained international recognition through their collaboration with Azealia Banks on “212.” Their contribution to the track comes from a sample of their instrumental piece “Float My Boat,” which was reworked to create the signature beat of “212.”

Lazy Jay’s Role in “212”

The beat provided by Lazy Jay in “212” is what gives the song its distinct sound. The track combines a deep bassline, house-influenced rhythms, and electronic elements that pair perfectly with Banks’ aggressive and playful rapping. The song’s success brought Lazy Jay into the spotlight, showcasing their talent for creating catchy, high-energy beats that appeal to a global audience.

Azealia Banks’ lyrics in “212” are provocative, playful, and at times, confrontational. The title references Manhattan’s 212 area code, symbolizing Banks’ New York roots. The lyrics switch between brash confidence and smooth, melodic choruses, showcasing Banks’ versatility as both a rapper and singer.

The track is filled with braggadocio and boasts of her dominance in the music world, while the playful delivery makes it an infectious dance track.
Some of the lyrics are explicit and provocative, reflecting the rebellious and confident attitude of Banks during this time in her career.

“212” was released independently before catching the attention of major labels and going viral online. The track gained popularity thanks to Azealia Banks’ confrontational yet charismatic delivery, which juxtaposed her smooth vocals with rapid-fire, provocative lyrics. The song became a hit on music blogs, clubs, and social media platforms, propelling Banks and Lazy Jay into international fame.

Critical Reception

Critics praised “212” for its originality and boldness. It was included in many best-of lists for 2011 and 2012, with outlets like Pitchfork and NME calling it one of the best tracks of the year. The song’s success also opened doors for Azealia Banks, leading to a recording contract and wider recognition in the music industry.

“212” remains one of the most iconic tracks of the 2010s, influencing both the hip-hop and electronic music scenes. Its success is attributed to its genre-blending production and Azealia Banks’ unapologetic approach to music and performance. The collaboration with Lazy Jay highlighted how electronic beats could seamlessly blend with rap, a trend that would continue to grow in the following years.

Influence on Future Artists

Many contemporary artists have drawn inspiration from “212” for its fearless combination of styles. The song proved that blending genres, especially house music with rap, could lead to massive success, encouraging more artists to experiment with different sounds.