Grime music, a genre born in the early 2000s in East London, is characterized by its rapid breakbeats, aggressive lyrics, and dark, electronic sound. This genre has significantly impacted the music scene, blending elements of UK garage, jungle, and dancehall. Grime artists are known for their lyrical dexterity, energetic performances, and innovative beats. The top ten grime artists listed here have not only shaped the genre but also brought it to the global stage, influencing music, fashion, and culture. Their contributions have been crucial in defining the sound and ethos of grime music.
Top 10 Grime Music Artists
1. Wiley
Wiley is often referred to as the “Godfather of Grime” due to his pivotal role in the genre’s inception and development. Born Richard Kylea Cowie Jr., Wiley’s early work with the group Roll Deep helped to define grime’s sound. His innovation with beats and lyrics laid the groundwork for the genre. Wiley’s Eskibeat sound, characterized by its minimalist and icy beats, became a sub-genre of grime. His debut album, “Treddin’ on Thin Ice,” and subsequent releases like “Godfather” are considered seminal works in grime music. Wiley’s influence extends beyond his music; he has mentored numerous artists and collaborated with big names such as Skepta, Dizzee Rascal, and Ed Sheeran. Tracks like “Wot Do U Call It?” and “Eskimo” are iconic, cementing his legacy as a pioneer of grime.
Influence: Wiley’s innovation with beats and lyrics set the foundation for grime. He pioneered the Eskibeat sound, a sub-genre of grime.
Albums: His album “Treddin’ on Thin Ice” is a classic, while “Godfather” solidified his legacy.
Collaborations: Wiley has worked with artists like Skepta, Dizzee Rascal, and Ed Sheeran.
2. Dizzee Rascal
Dizzee Rascal, born Dylan Mills, is one of grime’s most commercially successful artists. He brought grime to mainstream attention with his critically acclaimed debut album, “Boy in da Corner,” which won the Mercury Prize in 2003. Dizzee’s music blends grime with elements of hip-hop and electronic dance music, making his sound unique and appealing to a broad audience. His energetic performances and distinctive voice set him apart in the grime scene. Over the years, Dizzee has released several hit albums and singles, such as “Fix Up, Look Sharp” and “Bonkers,” which showcase his versatile talent. His ability to cross over into different musical styles has earned him numerous awards, including Brit Awards and MOBO Awards, solidifying his status as a major player in the music industry.
Style: Dizzee’s music blends grime with elements of hip-hop and electronic dance music.
Hits: Tracks like “Fix Up, Look Sharp” and “Bonkers” showcase his versatile talent.
Awards: He has received numerous accolades, including Brit Awards and MOBO Awards.
3. Skepta
Skepta, born Joseph Junior Adenuga, is a central figure in grime’s global expansion. As a member of the collective Boy Better Know (BBK), Skepta has been instrumental in popularizing grime outside the UK. His work blends raw grime elements with contemporary sounds, making his music accessible to a wider audience. Skepta’s fourth studio album, “Konnichiwa,” released in 2016, won the Mercury Prize, marking a significant milestone in his career. The album features hits like “Shutdown” and “Man,” which have become anthems in the grime scene. Beyond music, Skepta has made significant contributions to fashion and culture, collaborating with brands like Nike. His influence extends beyond the UK, making him a key ambassador for grime music worldwide.
Albums: “Konnichiwa,” which won the 2016 Mercury Prize, is a critical and commercial success.
Impact: Skepta’s influence extends beyond music to fashion and culture, often collaborating with brands like Nike.
Notable Tracks: “Shutdown,” “That’s Not Me,” and “Man” are essential grime anthems.
4. Stormzy
Stormzy, born Michael Ebenazer Kwadjo Omari Owuo Jr., is a leading figure in contemporary grime. He made history with his debut album, “Gang Signs & Prayer,” which topped the UK Albums Chart, making it the first grime album to do so. Stormzy’s music often addresses social and political issues, resonating with a broad audience. His charismatic stage presence and powerful lyrics have earned him a massive following. Tracks like “Big for Your Boots,” “Shut Up,” and “Vossi Bop” showcase his ability to blend hard-hitting grime beats with thought-provoking lyrics. Stormzy has headlined major festivals such as Glastonbury and won multiple awards, including Brit Awards, further cementing his place as a top grime artist.
Lyrics: Stormzy’s lyrics often address social and political issues, resonating with a broad audience.
Achievements: He has headlined major festivals like Glastonbury and won multiple awards, including Brit Awards.
Key Songs: “Big for Your Boots,” “Shut Up,” and “Vossi Bop” are among his most popular tracks.
5. Jme
Jme, born Jamie Adenuga, is a co-founder of the influential grime collective Boy Better Know (BBK). Known for his witty lyrics and distinctive production style, Jme has built a dedicated fanbase over the years. His DIY approach to music, characterized by his independence and control over his work, has set him apart in the grime scene. Jme’s albums, “Integrity>” and “Grime MC,” are critical successes, showcasing his lyrical prowess and innovative beats. His music often features clever wordplay and a unique blend of grime and electronic sounds. Jme’s influence extends beyond his music; he is also known for his activism and engagement with social issues, making him a respected figure in the grime community.
Innovation: Jme’s music is known for its witty lyrics and distinctive production.
Albums: “Integrity>” and “Grime MC” are critical successes.
Influence: Jme is influential in the grime scene for his DIY approach and independence.
6. Kano
Kano, born Kane Brett Robinson, is celebrated for his storytelling and lyrical prowess. His debut album, “Home Sweet Home,” is considered a grime classic and has significantly influenced the genre. Kano’s music blends grime with elements of rap and R&B, creating a versatile and dynamic sound. His ability to craft vivid narratives through his lyrics has earned him critical acclaim. Kano has also made a mark as an actor, starring in the popular TV series “Top Boy.” His influential tracks like “P’s and Q’s,” “GarageSkankFreestyle,” and “This Is England” showcase his talent and versatility. Kano’s contributions to grime extend beyond music, making him a multifaceted artist and a key figure in the genre.
Versatility: Kano seamlessly blends grime with elements of rap and R&B.
Cultural Impact: He has also made a mark as an actor in the TV series “Top Boy.”
Signature Tracks: “P’s and Q’s,” “GarageSkankFreestyle,” and “This Is England.”
7. Giggs
Giggs, born Nathaniel Thompson, is a prominent figure in both grime and UK rap. Known for his deep voice and slow delivery, Giggs has developed a distinctive style that sets him apart. His career has seen him collaborate with international artists, expanding grime’s reach beyond the UK. Giggs’ albums, such as “Landlord” and “Wamp 2 Dem,” are highly acclaimed and showcase his ability to blend grime with rap elements. Tracks like “Talking the Hardest,” “Look What the Cat Dragged In,” and “Whippin’ Excursion” have become anthems in the grime scene. Giggs’ influence extends beyond his music, making him a significant figure in the evolution of grime and UK rap.
Career: Giggs has collaborated with international artists, expanding grime’s reach.
Notable Work: Albums like “Landlord” and “Wamp 2 Dem” are highly acclaimed.
Popular Songs: “Talking the Hardest,” “Look What the Cat Dragged In,” and “Whippin’ Excursion.”
8. Lethal Bizzle
Lethal Bizzle, born Maxwell Owusu Ansah, is known for his energetic style and club anthems. He first gained prominence with the track “Pow! (Forward),” which became a major hit in the grime scene. Lethal Bizzle’s music is characterized by its high energy and catchy hooks, making his tracks popular in clubs. He has produced numerous hits, including “Rari WorkOut” and “Fester Skank.” Beyond music, Lethal Bizzle has ventured into business, launching a successful clothing line. His entrepreneurial spirit and ability to create chart-topping hits have made him a significant figure in grime music. Lethal Bizzle’s contribution to grime is substantial, particularly in bringing the genre to mainstream clubs and audiences.
Hits: Lethal Bizzle has produced numerous hits, including “Rari WorkOut” and “Fester Skank.”
Entrepreneurship: He has also ventured into business, launching a successful clothing line.
Legacy: Lethal Bizzle’s contribution to grime is significant, particularly in bringing the genre to mainstream clubs.
9. P Money
P Money, born Paris Moore-Williams, is known for his rapid-fire delivery and lyrical dexterity. He has been a staple in the grime scene for over a decade, consistently delivering high-quality music. P Money’s collaborations with artists like Skream and Example have showcased his versatility and talent. His album “Live & Direct” is a testament to his skills and has been well-received by fans and critics alike. Tracks like “Slang Like This,” “Lamborghini,” and “Round the Clock” highlight his ability to craft engaging and hard-hitting grime tunes. P Money’s dedication to grime and his consistent output have made him a respected figure in the genre.
Collaborations: He has worked with artists like Skream and Example.
Albums: “Live & Direct” showcases his talent and versatility.
Tracks: “Slang Like This,” “Lamborghini,” and “Round the Clock” are fan favorites.
10. D Double E
D Double E, born Darren Dixon, is one of grime’s most respected MCs. His distinctive voice and creative wordplay have earned him a legendary status in the grime community. D Double E’s style is unique, marked by his signature ad-libs and catchphrases. He is a member of the Newham Generals, a group that has been influential in the grime scene. His influential tracks like “Street Fighter Riddim,” “Bluku Bluku,” and “Lovely Jubbly” showcase his talent and originality. D Double E’s contributions to grime are significant, and his influence continues to be felt in the genre. His innovative approach and dedication to grime make him a key figure in its history.
Style: D Double E’s style is unique, marked by his signature ad-libs and catchphrases.
Group: He is a member of the Newham Generals.
Influential Tracks: “Street Fighter Riddim,” “Bluku Bluku,” and “Lovely Jubbly.”
See Also: Unveiling Common Instruments in Hip Hop and Rap Music
Conclusion
Grime music continues to evolve, and these ten artists have played pivotal roles in shaping the genre. Their influence extends beyond music into culture, fashion, and social issues, making grime a powerful and enduring movement in the music industry. From the foundational work of Wiley to the global reach of Skepta and Stormzy, these artists have not only defined grime but also taken it to new heights. As grime grows and transforms, these pioneers’ contributions will remain central to its legacy, inspiring future generations of artists.
