Description
In 2010, the British rap scene was set aflame with Giggs‘ groundbreaking second album, Let Em Ave It. The album, released via XL and the first to be pressed on vinyl after 15 years, laid the foundation for a flourishing career for the British rap artist. Giggs, rooted in the gritty realism of UK rap, brought a unique vocal delivery and unapologetic authenticity to this project. It was a daring declaration of his presence, unfiltered and strongly rooted in its origins.
Giggs, who’s real name is Nathaniel Thompson, was born in Peckham, London, in 1981. Before gaining widespread recognition with Let Em Ave It, Giggs had shown his skills with his debut studio album Walk in da Park that came out in 2008. He has proven to be no one-hit wonder, with successful albums like Landlord in 2016 and Wamp 2 Dem in 2017, cementing his place in the UK’s music scene. His latest album, Now or Never, released in 2020, continues to keep him in the limelight.
Gaining his stage name from a childhood nickname, Giggler, Giggs is more than just a rapper. He’s also a talented DJ and founder of music label and rap collective Spare No 1 (SN1). This is not a small feat. He also works closely with other artists such as Gunna Dee, Joe Grind, Kyze, and Tiny Boost. Interestingly, Giggs distances himself from the grime genre despite being categorized as a Grime MC on occasions. He asserts his music falls under a wider UK rap bracket, making clear his unique musical blend.
Giggs’ career shows an artist in constant evolution. After Walk in da Park, Let Em Ave It followed in 2009 under XL Recordings, attracting even greater attention. Singles like “Slow Songs” featuring Mike Skinner raised Giggs‘ profile further. His television debut occurred in 2010 on BBC Three at the Reading Festival, performing the hit single “Look What The Cat Dragged In”. This track, along with “Don’t Go There” featuring American rapper B.o.B, exposed Giggs to a broader audience.
Over the years, Giggs has not been immune to changes in the rap industry but rather has adapted and remained an ever-relevant figure. His third studio album, When Will It Stop (2013), featured stars like Ed Sheeran and Styles P, demonstrating a taste for collaborations. This trend continued with Landlord (2016), with contributions from rappers like Stormzy and Rico Love. Giggs was also featured on Canadian rapper Drake‘s album More Life (2017), proving his international appeal.
In conclusion, Giggs‘ progression, from an interesting new artist to an influential figure in British rap, has been undeniably impressive. His earnest lyricism, the infectious rhythm, and the noticeable growth observed across his discography underscore his impact on UK’s music scene. From Let Em Ave It to Now or Never, his journey mirrors the evolution of UK rap, featuring a mix of local and international artists and celebrating a unique brand of British music — gritty, unfiltered, and unapologetically original.