Remembering Ty: A Gentle Giant Who Shaped UK Hip-Hop

The UK hip-hop scene lost one of its most respected voices in 2020 when Ty, born Benedict Chijioke, passed away at 47 due to complications from COVID-19. Known for his soulful beats, razor-sharp lyrics, and deep introspection, Ty helped define a sound and spirit in British rap that still echoes today.

Raised in Brixton, South London, by Nigerian parents, Ty’s early life was marked by cultural dislocation. Twice fostered outside London as a child, he later spoke candidly about feeling abandoned and misunderstood—a theme that would find its way into much of his music.

While the UK was still finding its voice in rap, Ty was crafting his own narrative—one rooted in honesty, identity, and lyrical finesse. He emerged in the late 1990s with a sound unlike the grimy streets or flashy club anthems of his peers. Instead, he carved a lane powered by jazz, funk, and consciousness.

His 2001 debut Awkward introduced fans to a thoughtful storyteller unafraid to explore vulnerability. But it was his 2003 album Upwards—featuring Afrobeat legend Tony Allen—that cemented his status as a game-changer. That project earned a Mercury Prize nomination in 2004, a rare feat for UK hip-hop at the time.

Ty’s influence reached beyond music. He founded workshops, mentored young creatives in Brixton, and continually pushed for UK hip-hop to be respected in its own right—distinct from grime and American rap. While the industry often lumped Black British rappers into one category, Ty fought to be seen as an artist with depth, nuance, and longevity.

Even as trends shifted, Ty stayed consistent. His 2018 project A Work of Heart featured live instrumentation and tributes to his roots, including the standout track “Brixton Baby”, a love letter to the changing streets that raised him.

More than charts or fame, Ty cared about craft. He made music that felt timeless—offering reflections on identity, society, and belonging. His presence in remixes like Bashy’s “Black Boys” alongside grime stars like Skepta proved he respected all parts of the culture, even as he stood in his own lane.

Ty may not have been the loudest voice in UK rap, but he was one of its most genuine. His legacy lives on in every British MC who dares to be soulful, sharp, and real.

Rest in power, Ty. UK hip-hop wouldn’t be what it is without you