Plan B

Introduction:

Benjamin Paul Ballance-Drew, (born on 22 October 1983 and known professionally as Plan B), is a British rapper, singer, songwriter, actor, and filmmaker. He gained prominence with his debut album, Who Needs Actions When You Got Words (2006), and achieved mainstream success with The Defamation of Strickland Banks (2010), which topped the UK Albums Chart. Plan B is also recognized for his roles in films such as Adulthood (2008) and Harry Brown (2009), as well as for writing and directing Ill Manors (2012).

Early Life and Background:

Born in Forest Gate, East London, Plan B was raised by his mother after his father left when he was six years old. He attended the Anglo European School in Ingatestone, Essex, before transferring to Tom Hood School in Leytonstone. At 14, he taught himself to play guitar, initially covering songs by Blur and Oasis, before developing a passion for hip-hop and R&B.

Music Career:

Plan B’s debut album, Who Needs Actions When You Got Words, released in 2006, was lauded for its raw depiction of urban life. His second album, The Defamation of Strickland Banks (2010), showcased a shift to soul and R&B, narrating the story of a fictional soul singer named Strickland Banks. The album debuted at number one on the UK Albums Chart.

In 2012, Plan B released Ill Manors, a soundtrack album accompanying his directorial debut of the same name. The project was acclaimed for its gritty portrayal of London’s underbelly and became his second number-one album.

After a six-year hiatus, he returned with Heaven Before All Hell Breaks Loose in 2018, exploring diverse musical styles and reflecting his personal growth during his time away from the spotlight.

Acting and Filmmaking:

Plan B’s acting career includes notable roles in Adulthood (2008) and Harry Brown (2009). In 2012, he wrote and directed Ill Manors, a crime drama that received critical acclaim for its unflinching look at societal issues in London.

Personal Life:

Plan B has been private about his personal life. He took a hiatus from music to focus on fatherhood and reconnect with family and friends, stating that he felt “spiritually lost” after the release of Ill Manors.

Legacy and Influence:

Plan B is regarded as a versatile artist who seamlessly blends genres and tackles pressing social issues through his music and films. His work has inspired a generation of British musicians and filmmakers to address complex themes in their art.

Recent Activities:

In 2018, Plan B released his fourth studio album, Heaven Before All Hell Breaks Loose, marking his return to the music scene after a six-year hiatus. The album showcased a departure from his earlier hip-hop roots, embracing a more diverse musical palette.

In 2020, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of The Defamation of Strickland Banks, he announced a limited edition Oxblood vinyl release of the album. 

As of 2025, there have been no widely reported new projects or public appearances by Plan B.