Rag'n'Bone Man
Biography
Rory Charles Graham, professionally known as Rag'n'Bone Man, is an English singer-songwriter celebrated for his deep, soulful baritone voice. Born on January 29, 1985, in Uckfield, East Sussex, his musical journey began at a young age, influenced by the blues and soul records he would listen to with his family. At 15, he started his foray into music as an MC with a drum and bass crew under the name Rag 'N' Bonez, a name inspired by the British sitcom "Steptoe and Son".
Early Career and Breakthrough
After moving to Brighton, Graham joined the rap collective Rum Committee and began performing at local hip-hop nights. Encouraged by his father to sing, he started performing at blues jams, where his powerful voice gained recognition. In the early 2010s, he began working with UK hip-hop label High Focus Records, releasing several EPs. His collaboration with record producer Mark Crew was a turning point, leading to the release of his debut EP, "Wolves," in 2014 and the "Disfigured" EP in 2015.
The monumental breakthrough came in 2016 with the release of his single "Human". The track became a global success, topping charts in numerous countries and amassing over a billion views on YouTube. This success set the stage for his debut album, also titled "Human," released in February 2017. The album became the fastest-selling debut by a male artist in the UK during that decade and achieved multi-platinum status.
Musical Style and Acclaim
Rag'n'Bone Man's music is a blend of neo-blues, soul, and hip-hop. His powerful and emotive vocal delivery has drawn comparisons to legendary blues and soul singers. His work has earned him significant critical acclaim, including multiple Brit Awards. In 2017, he won the awards for British Breakthrough Act and the Critics' Choice Award. The following year, "Human" won the Brit Award for Best British Single.
Subsequent Work and Collaborations
Following the success of his debut, Rag'n'Bone Man toured extensively and collaborated with a variety of artists across different genres. Notable collaborations include tracks with Gorillaz, Logic, and a particularly successful 2019 single, "Giant," with Calvin Harris. His second studio album, "Life by Misadventure," was released in May 2021 and debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart. In October 2024, he released his third studio album, "What Do You Believe In?", which sees him returning to his hip-hop, soul, and blues roots.
Personal Life
Rory Graham is a father to a son with his ex-wife, Beth Rouy. Before his music career took off, he worked as a carer for people with Down's syndrome and autism, a job he found deeply rewarding. He continues to be a supporter of the local Brighton & Hove Albion football team.