From Disbandment to Independence
In the tumultuous landscape of UK music, two brothers, Joseph and Jamie Adenuga, emerged from the shadows of disbandment to redefine an entire genre. Better known as Skepta and JME, they formed their label Boy Better Know (BBK) in 2005, advocating for independence and authenticity in a rapidly commercializing music industry. Looking back at their early days, it's clear that their decision to forge their own path wasn't just career-oriented but embedded in their identity as artists.
The Birth of a Scene
At the time, grime was still finding its feet, birthed from the gritty underbellies of London's electronic dance scene. Emerging British rappers struggled to secure spaces that celebrated their raw, unpolished style, often coerced into cleaner, more commercially palatable sounds. As Lewisham-based artist Shaybo aptly states, “They were so influential for rapping in the UK, they showed us we can.” BBK fought against the industry's push for 'marketable' versions of grime, championing the genre's authenticity.
“They are incredibly headstrong people and probably saw the pitfalls of signing deals.” - Dacre Bracey
Empowering the Next Generation
Through their creative sanctum, Skepta and JME lifted a generation of artists. Shaybo recalls how BBK's ethos instilled a sense of confidence: “BBK gave you the confidence to be unapologetically yourself. I could listen to music I really related to.” The label became more than just a platform; it was a beacon of hope for young talents navigating the often-chaotic industry landscape.
Breaking Barriers
Despite facing significant setbacks, including police crackdowns on live events and radio piracy that threatened the gig culture, the Adenuga brothers persevered. The late 2000s saw them drop a series of mixtapes, culminating in their iconic track “Too Many Man,” which broke into the UK charts. Their resilience not only kept the essence of grime alive but also expanded its reach.
A Struggle for Artistic Integrity
In 2010, grime found itself at a crossroads. The genre's popularity waned, and many turned to other styles, including Dizzee Rascal, who ventured into commercial rap territory. Yet, artists like Capo Lee maintained that this evolution bore some silver lining. “Music was very different in the 2010s, but [the public] got used to seeing black men on the screen,” he reflects.
Return to Roots
The BBK label never truly faded into obscurity, even during the quieter years. JME, revered for his steadfast independence, never consented to the glamorous trappings of fame. Skepta briefly signed with Universal, but—true to form—he returned to his grime roots with the 2014 hit “That's Not Me.” This anthem served not only as a declaration of independence but also as a reminder of the label's unwavering commitment to authenticity. The music video notoriously cost a mere £80 to produce yet claimed a Mobo award, proving that genuine talent transcends financial backing.
Breaking Records and Stereotypes
Transitioning into the mid-2010s, Skepta's apex came with his acclaimed album “Konnichiwa,” which reshaped the narrative surrounding grime and won him the Mercury Prize. The album, with a nod to its unapologetic roots while incorporating production elements from industry stalwarts like Pharrell Williams, showcased grime's potential when driven by its own voice and vision.
The BBK Legacy
The impact of BBK extends far beyond its founders. It set the stage for a new wave of grime artists like Stormzy, Dave, and Bugzy Malone, each carving their unique path while flowing from the foundation laid by BBK. Shaybo, who identifies as a rapper but not strictly within the grime genre, acknowledges the profound effect BBK had in shaping her artistry. “Grime was my foundation; they gave me the skills to rap and the confidence to embrace my heritage.”
This phenomenon illustrates the unique concoction of culture that exists within London, where diverse backgrounds converge to create an authentic sonic experience. As Bracey eloquently states, “That's why BBK are great and magical and special.”
Conclusion: More Than Music
As I reflect on the influence of Skepta, JME, and their label, it's clear that BBK is not merely a music label; it's a cultural movement. The brothers have crafted not just sounds but also a sense of identity for a generation hungry for representation and authenticity. The evolution of grime, fueled by their passion and independence, serves as a reminder of music's power to elevate voices echoing in the depths of one's soul.
Source reference: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3w9x86p9ndo
