- Words Solly Warner
- Interview Tiffany Calver
- Photography Beni Masiala
- Art Direction Maria Maleh
- Art Direction Justin Moore
At just 22 years old, Central Cee is proving himself to be one of London’s most exciting emerging artists with his versatile and distinctive delivery.
Music has been an integral part of Central Cee’s upbringing for as long as he can remember. There appears to be an eagerness in creating his own musical legacy. Something that is deeply rooted within his earliest memories of absorbing the rich sounds of his dad’s old-school hip-hop collection.
From the release of a slew of solid tracks in addition to a powerful Next Up Freestyle on Mixtape Madness, Central Cee is building on this foundation. This year has seen the young rapper go from strength to strength dropping three big singles, “Day In A Life”, “Molly” and “Loading”, with all three tracks having racked up over 18 million streams on Spotify collectively.
The heat surrounding Central Cee along with some killer short freestyle videos showcasing his lyrical abilities has led to him building an increasing online following in a matter of months. He has also gained support from various artists at home and abroad including a co-sign from US rapper Big Sean.
Notion 88’s guest editor and Radio 1Xtra host, Tiffany Calver, picks Central Cee as one to watch for next year. Learn more about the emerging rapper below.
What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?
Play music. Jump in the shower, regular stuff.
Tell us your first musical memory…
I used to live in Notting Hill Carnival territory, I’ve been going since I was born. I’ve got mad love for the sound system culture, dancehall & reggae, it’s part of me.
A song that sums up your life so far?
Not sure about a song that sums up my life so far, but a song that sums up my life right now; NBA YoungBoy – ‘Untouchable’.
If you were Prime Minister for the day – what would you do?
I’d probably get assassinated by the day done.
What’s your biggest learn from 2020?
Never give up. Cliché I know.
You’re stranded on a desert island – you can only have five items. What are they?
A tent, some sort of weapon and portable stove or something.
Describe yourself using one of your own lyrics…
I’m the reason the party tun I was the one giving out… Na I’m joking, 1 million views aint famous, I need me a crib no neighbours. I’m ambitious so I think that sums me up.
How did your parents react when you started making music?
My dad liked it. My mum, probably not so much.
You can only eat one meal for the rest of your life. What is it?
Noodles. I’ve lived off them before.
What has been the defining moment of your life so far?
There’s not one moment. Everything I have been through has shaped me as a person. Both negative & positive.
Which song of yours do you think could have gone #1?
My next one.
If you could curate the line-up for the next Tiffany Calver & Friends, who would you pick?
Me, M1llionz and Dutchavelli. We gotta be the coldest up and coming.
What’s your hidden talent?
I can draw well.
If you weren’t making music – what would you be doing?
Haha, only god knows.
Cats or Dogs?
Dogs.
If you woke up to one million pounds in your bank account – what is the first thing you would do?
Nothing crazy.
If you could win any award what would it be?
The best one. Is that a GRAMMY?
Which of your songs means most to you and why?
You’re probably yet to hear it. I got some more meaningful music on the way.