Diaspora Star | Dave : The Brixton-Born Rapper Redefining British Music

David Orobosa Michael Omoregie, professionally known as Dave or MG Puttar, has become one of the most compelling voices in contemporary British music. Born on 5 June 1998 in Brixton, South London, to Nigerian parents, Dave’s upbringing was shaped by adversity. His father was deported to Nigeria when Dave was just an infant due to visa issues, and his family faced periods of homelessness, at one point living on buses in South London. These early experiences would later inform his raw, reflective, and socially conscious lyricism.

Despite the instability at home, Dave found solace in music. He began writing lyrics at 11 after watching his older brother practise rapping and taught himself piano at 14 after receiving an electric keyboard for Christmas. Music became not just a creative outlet, but a way to process the complex realities around him. His teenage years were further marked by challenges: both of his older brothers served time in prison, an experience that exposed Dave to the harsh realities of life in South London and added layers of depth and urgency to his art.

Dave’s career began with the 2016 EP Six Paths and singles such as “Thiago Silva” with AJ Tracey. Recognition came quickly: Drake premiered a remix of Dave’s song Wanna Know on OVO Sound Radio, signaling early international attention. Dave distinguished himself with intelligent, socially aware lyrics that blended storytelling with commentary on politics, race, and personal struggles, a style that resonated with both critics and fans.

In 2018, Dave released Question Time, a politically charged track critiquing the UK government, earning him the Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song at just 19. That same year, his single “Funky Friday,” featuring Fredo, became his first number-one hit on the UK Singles Chart, marking the beginning of a series of commercial breakthroughs. Dave’s music skillfully combines personal reflection with broader societal observations, positioning him as a voice for his generation.

His debut album, Psychodrama (2019), was met with widespread critical acclaim and debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album explored themes of mental health, grief, family, and societal pressure, and it won both the Mercury Prize and the Brit Award for Album of the Year. Singles like “Location,” featuring Burna Boy, went multi-platinum, and the album’s innovative storytelling, structured like a therapy session, highlighted Dave’s artistic ambition and maturity.

Dave’s sophomore album, We’re All Alone in This Together (2021), broke streaming records, produced multiple top-ten singles including “Clash” featuring Stormzy, and solidified his position at the top of the UK rap scene. His 2022 solo single, “Starlight,” became his longest-running solo number-one single, demonstrating his ability to connect with audiences emotionally and commercially. With The Boy Who Played the Harp (2025), Dave became the first UK rapper to debut three albums at number one and have three albums simultaneously in the Top 40, a milestone reflecting his sustained relevance and influence.

Beyond music, Dave has expanded his artistry into acting and production. He made his acting debut in Netflix’s Top Boy and produced tracks for artists including Fredo and Central Cee under his alias SANTAN. His collaborations span global artists like Burna Boy, Tiakola, and Hans Zimmer, showcasing his versatility and international appeal. His work consistently highlights themes of racial identity, politics, mental health, and diaspora experiences, making him both a cultural ambassador and a role model for young British and Nigerian audiences alike.

From the streets of Brixton to sold-out arenas across the world, Dave’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and vision. He has redefined British rap through introspection, political awareness, and musical innovation, making him one of the most influential diaspora artists of his generation. Dave’s story proves that creativity, courage, and authenticity can transcend adversity, giving voice to communities often overlooked in mainstream narratives.