Streatham-born Rapper Dave has won the 2019 edition of the prestigious UK’s Mercury Prize for his debut album, Psychodrama. The album has been hailed as “the boldest and best British rap album in a generation.”
The 21-year old, whose full name is David Orobosa Omoregie, said he has exceeded his expectations, as he took to stage and invited his mum to come join him. He went on to dedicate the award to his family and friends, especially his brother, Christopher, who is serving a life sentence for murder.
“This is surreal, I did not expect this,” he said. “I’m glad I’ve been able to repay the faith that people have put into me.”
Psychodrama was released in March but quickly entered the UK charts at number one and has sold 129,354, copies to date.
Psychodrama – the boldest and best British rap album in a generation.
Psychodrama is a thought-provoking album that reflects on Dave’s upbringing in London. It was inspired by his brother’s incarceration and therapeutic rehabilitation in prison and documents his struggle with grief, pain, domestic abuse and depression. Its lead single, Black, focused on the perception of black people in Britain.
Though the album has not been without its critics. When Black first aired on radio, the song provoked complaints from a small minority of listeners who said it bore racist remarks against white people.
“Black is pain, black is joy, black is evident,” “It’s working twice as hard as the people you know you’re better than.” — Dave
Mercury Prize judge Annie Mac said the album “showed remarkable levels of musicianship” as well as “true artistry, courage and honesty.”
