Skepta is launching his own record label
(Credit: Jm131131)

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Skepta is launching his own record label

Skepta has been around for a long time and is a household name in the UK. Starting off as a DJ as part of Tottenham’s Meridian Crew, it wasn’t until he and his brother (JME) formed Boy Better Know in 2005 that Skepta became an artist. He has been a mainstay in the name ever since.

However, after forming Boy Better Know Records alongside his brother and releasing all of his music through Boy Better Know or Roll Deep Recordings, most would have said it was unnecessary for Skepta to start his own records label. However, since his rapid rise to mega fame in 2014, it has become more and more apparent that Skepta is much further ahead than any of his Boy Better Know peers.

As such, the rapper is in the process of launching his own record label, Big Smoke Records, to help newcomers in the game and take up more of a business role in the industry. Skepta has been an MC since 2005 and didn’t get to fully enjoy the hard work he put in until a whole decade later. Having grafted for nearly two decades now, the rapper is evidently satisfied with what he has achieved in his career thus far and clearly is tired of the fast life.

According to the statement, Skepta plans to use the label to “nurture and invest in the next generation of young creative talent.” Furthermore, he has said he intends to “focus on signing new talent who represent and champion the ethos of Big Smoke Corporation; trendsetters, who break the mould and do things differently.”

The rapper has also entered into a collaboration with the sportswear brand Puma. Speaking on why he chose to enter into the partnership the Tottenham rapper revealed, “During my career, I’ve seen many brands and corporations capitalise on the cultural currency of the music and creative industries without adequately supporting artists or those working within these industries.”

The artist continued, “This is a unique opportunity for brands and corporations to collaboratively tap into the influence of the industry and culture whilst ensuring they are authentically and adequately supporting creatives and artists.”

The collaboration with Puma and the record label launch are planned to happen in the coming months. Below, see the Big Smoke Corp headquarters opening party.