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Joseph and Jamie Adenuga, two brothers from Tottenham, found themselves at a crossroads in 2005 after their rap crew disbanded. Rather than rejoining other members, they decided to carve their own path in the music industry. This decision led to the creation of Boy Better Know (BBK), a label that would become synonymous with independence and authenticity. The influence of BBK on the UK rap scene cannot be overstated, as Lewisham-based artist Shaybo attests, “They showed us we can.”
Grime, a burgeoning genre emerging from the electronic dance scene, was still in its infancy during this time. While other British rappers were being signed by major labels to produce more mainstream music, BBK remained steadfast in their commitment to staying true to themselves and their sound. According to RWD magazine founder Dacre Bracey, the Adenuga family’s resilience and determination to avoid the potential pitfalls of signing deals were crucial in the label’s success. Despite having other members like Frisco, Jammer, and Shorty, the genius of BBK ultimately lay with the Adenuga brothers.
One of the early indicators of BBK’s innovative approach was their Boy Better Know logo-printed T-shirts, designed by JME. These shirts, distributed throughout London, helped finance the label’s early endeavors. The impact of BBK was far-reaching, instilling a sense of confidence and self-expression in artists like Shaybo, who found inspiration in their unapologetic authenticity. Even a younger artist like Capo Lee, who attended the same school as the Adenuga brothers, credits BBK with instilling hope and possibility in the face of negativity.
As grime faced a shifting landscape in the late 2000s, BBK continued to release music that resonated with audiences. JME’s unyielding independence and commitment to staying true to his roots were evident in his successful 2015 album Integrity. Skepta, after a brief stint with a major label, reaffirmed his dedication to grime with the hit song “That’s Not Me,” rejecting commercial pressures and returning to his authentic sound. The subsequent release of Skepta’s album Konnichiwa under BBK earned him the prestigious Mercury Prize, solidifying grime’s status as a genre driven by its artists, not industry executives.
The success of BBK sparked a renaissance in grime music, inspiring a new generation of artists like Stormzy, Dave, and Bugzy Malone to follow their own independent paths. Shaybo, who attributes her rap skills and confidence to her grime foundation, emphasizes the lasting impact of BBK on her career. The cultural significance of BBK and their contributions to the UK music scene cannot be overstated, with Dacre Bracey noting that their unique blend of authenticity and innovation could only have emerged from the diverse melting pot of London
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