BLAK TWANG
 
It's impossible to talk about the hip-hop scene in the U.K. without mentioning Tony Rotton a.k.a. Blak Twang, as both an integral part of the music's history and as part of its bright future.  Coming up from the streets, open mic sessions, parties and radio, Blak Twang utilized his verbal skills to build a huge underground following for himself.  His reputation for being a killer emcee was further cemented during the mid-1990's after he released a string of now-classic singles, including "Real Estate", "Queen's Heads" and the London-anthem "Dettwork South-East".  In 1998, Blak Twang released his official debut album "19 Long Time - Live from the Big Smoke" to critical acclaim, which also spawned the hit-singles "Red Letter Day" and "Perfect Love Song", which hit the national Top 40 charts.  He was also the first U.K. act to win Best Hip-Hop Act at the Mobo Awards.  Blak Twang did not rest on his laurels though, and is well known for his intense touring around the U.K. and Europe, building a dedicated following wherever he takes the stage.
 
But never a man to dwell on past glories, Black Twang has his sights set on the here and now.  After the massive success of the underground single "U Know" last year, Tony Rotton is set to bring the ruckus once again with his latest long play offering "Kik Off".  With the title track already blazing through radios and TVs nationwide, Blak Twang has yet another underground classic on his hands.

Official website: http://www.blaktwang.net