Skepta

Joseph Olaitan Adenuga Jr., better known as Skepta, is a pioneering British rapper, record producer, and DJ who has played a major role in shaping the grime music scene. Born on September 19, 1982, in Tottenham, North London, to Nigerian parents of Yoruba and Igbo heritage, Skepta is the eldest of four siblings, with his younger brother Jme also being a key figure in the grime community.

In the early 2000s, Skepta and Jme were part of the iconic grime collective Roll Deep before they co-founded their own label, Boy Better Know, in 2005. Skepta’s solo career took off with the release of his debut album Greatest Hits in 2007, followed by Microphone Champion in 2009, and Doin’ It Again in 2011. However, it was his fourth album, Konnichiwa (2016), that truly solidified his place in music history. The album, featuring hits like “That’s Not Me” and “Shutdown,” earned him widespread recognition and won the prestigious Mercury Prize.

Beyond music, Skepta has also ventured into acting, with a notable role in the 2015 film Anti-Social. He has expanded his artistic reach by showcasing his paintings at Sotheby’s in 2022. In 2018, he was honored with the chieftaincy title “Amuludun of Odo-Aje” in Ogun State, Nigeria.

In December 2024, Skepta hosted a DJ set at Jaguar’s launch event for the Type 00 concept car in Miami during Art Week. He also announced the return of his Skepta Presents festival, set for August 2025 at Crystal Palace Park in London, promising an exciting lineup for his fans.