Professor Green

Introduction:

Professor Green (born Stephen Paul Manderson on November 27, 1983) is a British rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his blend of rap, hip-hop, and pop influences. He gained prominence with his debut album Alive Till I’m Dead and has been a significant figure in the UK music scene, collaborating with major artists and achieving multiple chart successes. His honest lyrics often tackle personal and societal issues, making him a relatable figure for many fans.

Early Life and Background:

Professor Green was born in Hackney, East London, and raised by his grandmother after his parents separated. He faced a troubled upbringing, with his father’s tragic suicide in 2008 being a defining moment in his life. Green developed an early passion for music, particularly rap, which he discovered through freestyling at parties. His breakthrough came after winning rap battles at LyricPad, leading to his discovery by a scout from JumpOff. His consistent victories in rap battles, including a record-setting seven consecutive wins, caught the attention of Mike Skinner of The Streets, who signed him to his label, The Beats.

Music Career:

After a period of mixed success at The Beats, Professor Green signed with Virgin Records and released his debut album Alive Till I’m Dead in 2010. The album featured hits like I Need You Tonight, which peaked at number three in the UK and was certified Silver, and Just Be Good To Green, featuring Lily Allen. The latter track sampled the classic Just Be Good to Me by the SOS Band, becoming another major success.

The album’s third single, Monster, featured rapper Example, while Jungle, featuring Maverick Sabre, followed soon after. Alive Till I’m Dead debuted at number two on the UK Albums Chart, solidifying Green’s position in the UK rap scene. However, his career was not without controversy, as he became embroiled in a public feud with grime artist Wiley on Twitter. The dispute began when Wiley criticized Green’s success, claiming it was largely due to his association with Eminem. Green responded, acknowledging Eminem’s influence on his music but asserting his own distinct artistic identity.

Green’s second album, At Your Inconvenience (2011), featured the number-one hit Read All About It with Emeli Sandé. This track’s success marked a career milestone for Green. The second single from the album, Never Be A Right Time, featured Ed Drewett and also charted highly. Throughout his career, Green has been known for his collaborations with prominent artists, further enhancing his visibility within the UK music scene.

Personal Life:

Professor Green’s personal life has been marked by both triumph and tragedy. In addition to dealing with the loss of his father, he has been open about his struggles with mental health and his challenges in the music industry. In 2014, Green married actress and model Millie Mackintosh, though the couple separated in 2016.

Green has been an advocate for mental health awareness, using his platform to speak out about his own experiences. His lyrics often reflect on personal struggles, including issues related to family, self-esteem, and his own battles with depression.

Legacy and Influence:

Professor Green has been an influential figure in the UK hip-hop scene, helping to bridge the gap between grime and mainstream rap. His honest approach to songwriting, particularly in dealing with mental health and personal loss, has resonated with many of his fans. He has paved the way for other UK artists to gain recognition and success while maintaining their authenticity. Green’s impact extends beyond music, as he continues to use his voice to address important social issues.

Recent Activities:

After his 2016 separation from Millie Mackintosh, Professor Green focused on his personal well-being and continued his music career. In 2018, he released Never Been Better, a reflection of his growth both as an artist and a person. While not as commercially successful as his earlier works, the album received positive reviews for its maturity and introspection.

In recent years, Green has kept a relatively low profile in terms of major musical releases but remains active in the public eye. He has taken part in various campaigns and appeared on numerous TV shows, further solidifying his place as a respected figure in British popular culture. His music continues to inspire both emerging and established artists, and he is recognized for his contributions to the UK music landscape.

Professor Green’s legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to authentic self-expression, both in his music and his personal life.