Artist Spotlight: Tommy B

Technically adept with a strong identity and boundless charisma, Essex rapper Tommy B isn’t afraid of being himself. 

Simultaneously defying and celebrating the ‘Essex Boy’ stereotype, Tommy’s straight talking bars and slippy delivery see him filled next to the likes of Devlin. A student of UK rap, Tommy’s influences transcend genre, focusing more on inherently British songwriters with a visceral message to portray through their music. This is reflected in the rapper’s nuanced storytelling ability, with his intelligent wordplay and vivid narrative focus key to his lyrical appeal. 

Following a short hiatus, Tommy B has returned, better than ever, to stake his claim on the UK rap scene. Announcing his highly anticipated debut album, baptised rip-roaringly as Spiritual Hooligan, Tommy unveiled its debut offering Blessings; a unique grime and drill influenced cut that showcases the prospect’s sharpened flow and seamless wit.

I caught up with the high flyer to discuss the new single, maintaining authenticity in his music, and his upcoming debut album.  

Who influences you?

Musically, I am influenced hugely by the forefathers of the UK Grime scene. MC’s like Ghetts, Wiley & Devlin were who made me and still make me want to write lyrics. I am also very into storytellers like Mike Skinner & songwriters like Richard Ashcroft, Kurt Cobain & Noel Gallagher. Aside from music, I am influenced by my own experiences and the experiences of those close to me, whether that be friends & family or those from the communities I have lived in. 

When and why did you first start creating?

I started writing lyrics when I was around 9 years old. I used to perform Eminem on the Karaoke and then I think I just naturally decided I would pick up the pen and have a go. Writing and spitting hooked me and quickly became a form of escapism I could tap into to block out the noise of my life.

What’s the story behind your hiatus from releasing?

I just decided to take some time out to record a solid body of work. It’s also nice to go out and experience life without the pressure of releasing so that I can come back to the booth with new life experiences to touch on. 

Do you thrive on the Essex boy stereotype, or is it something that you want to defy longer term?

I have just got to the point where I am unapologetically myself now. I wouldn’t even say I live up to that stereotype in all honesty - but if people want to brand me with that, there’s no issue! 

You’ve got a really clear artist identity, is that you naturally or is it exaggerated for the music and the videos?

I would say it is me naturally but music and visuals always has to tell a story. In order to tell a story that connects with people I think you have to play on what can relate yourself to the people taking you in. 

How would you define your sound?

My sound is the sound of the British working class. It takes on many forms sonically, but that’s the core ethos of who I am as an artist.

How do you think you can maintain authenticity and stand out within such a congested scene?

I honestly believe you just have to be yourself. The moment you try to chase what others are doing, you lose that authenticity. In regards to the congestion of the scene, you just have to work harder than anyone else. You hear this a lot but hard work will always beat talent. If you can combine both elements that’s the formula to success.

I know you supported Devlin on tour a few years ago, how did that experience help you as a performer and as a writer?

I wouldn’t say it changed my writing process but it hugely helped me as a performer. I would say I mainly picked up on how to control a crowd and the way to conduct a good set-list that connects with the audience.

Talk me through the creative process for our new track Blessings?

My creative process is very introverted and mostly identical for all of my music. Most of the time I write songs on my own and then take them to the studio & bring them to life with the engineer. This is exactly what happened with Blessings.

What are you trying to convey with the single?

I wanted to show the paradox between the bodacious, almost arrogant style of an MC in the verses & the more humble, spiritual side of me as an artist in the hook. It kind of encapsulates what I am trying portray in the new project as a whole. 

What can we expect from your upcoming debut album?

You can expect a range of different sounds, subject matters, storytelling and songwriting. You can expect the best music I have made so far.

If you were introducing yourself to a new listener, what track would you play them?

I would play ‘Blessings’, because like I said previously, it portrays the direction of the new album very well.

What’s to come for you?

Obviously we have the album dropping. We are looking to releases 2 or 3 more singles before the drop so ensure to keep your eyes peeled to them. Aside from releases, you can expect to see me back on the live circuit this year & that will include my first ever headline show later in the year.