Sigrid Dwyer

Written by Sigrid Dwyer

Modified & Updated: 12 Mar 2025

31-facts-about-ragnbone-man
Source: Smmrsessions.com

Who is Rag'n'Bone Man? If you've ever heard the soulful voice behind the hit song "Human," then you already know a bit about him. Rag'n'Bone Man, whose real name is Rory Graham, has taken the music world by storm with his deep, gravelly voice and heartfelt lyrics. Born in East Sussex, England, he started his career in local hip-hop before transitioning to blues and soul. His unique sound blends genres, creating music that resonates with a wide audience. Beyond his musical talents, he's known for his down-to-earth personality and distinctive style. Ready to learn more? Here are 31 fascinating facts about Rag'n'Bone Man!

Table of Contents

Early Life

Rag'n'Bone Man, whose real name is Rory Charles Graham, has a fascinating background that shaped his music career. Here are some intriguing facts about his early life.

  1. Born on January 29, 1985, in Uckfield, East Sussex, England, Rory grew up in a small town.
  2. His stage name, Rag'n'Bone Man, was inspired by the British TV show "Steptoe and Son," which featured a rag-and-bone man.
  3. Rory's father was a musician, which influenced his early interest in music.
  4. He began performing at local blues nights when he was just 15 years old.
  5. Before pursuing music full-time, Rory worked as a carer for people with Asperger syndrome.

Musical Beginnings

Rag'n'Bone Man's journey into the music industry wasn't straightforward. He faced many challenges and took several detours before finding success.

  1. Initially, Rory was part of a drum and bass crew called Rum Committee.
  2. He released his first EP, "Bluestown," in 2012, which showcased his blues influences.
  3. His breakthrough came with the release of the single "Human" in 2016.
  4. "Human" topped the charts in several countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland.
  5. The song's success earned him the British Breakthrough Act award at the 2017 Brit Awards.

Influences and Style

Rag'n'Bone Man's music is a blend of various genres, reflecting his diverse influences. Let's explore what shapes his unique sound.

  1. He cites blues legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf as major influences.
  2. Hip-hop also plays a significant role in his music, with artists like Wu-Tang Clan and Nas inspiring him.
  3. Rory's deep, soulful voice is often compared to that of classic soul singers like Otis Redding.
  4. His lyrics often explore themes of human vulnerability and resilience.
  5. He collaborates with a wide range of artists, from rappers to rock musicians, to create his eclectic sound.

Albums and Singles

Rag'n'Bone Man's discography is filled with powerful songs that resonate with listeners. Here are some key highlights.

  1. His debut album, "Human," was released in 2017 and received critical acclaim.
  2. The album includes hits like "Skin" and "Grace," which showcase his vocal range and emotional depth.
  3. In 2021, he released his second album, "Life by Misadventure."
  4. "Life by Misadventure" features collaborations with artists like P!nk and Mike Elizondo.
  5. The album explores themes of love, loss, and personal growth.

Awards and Recognition

Rag'n'Bone Man's talent has not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and accolades throughout his career.

  1. In addition to his Brit Award for British Breakthrough Act, he won the Critics' Choice Award in 2017.
  2. He received the Echo Award for Best International Newcomer in 2017.
  3. His song "Human" won the Ivor Novello Award for Best Song Musically and Lyrically in 2018.
  4. Rory was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Traditional R&B Performance in 2018.
  5. He has also been recognized by the BBC Music Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards.

Personal Life

Beyond his music, Rag'n'Bone Man leads an interesting personal life that fans are curious about. Here are some personal tidbits.

  1. Rory is an avid tattoo enthusiast and has numerous tattoos covering his arms and torso.
  2. He is a father to a son named Reuben, born in 2017.
  3. Despite his fame, Rory prefers to keep a low profile and enjoys spending time with his family.
  4. He is passionate about mental health awareness and often speaks about his own struggles with anxiety.
  5. Rory is also a dog lover and has a pet dog named Peggy.

Fun Facts

To wrap things up, here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Rag'n'Bone Man that might surprise you.

  1. Rory once performed at Glastonbury Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in the world, before he became famous.

Rag'n'Bone Man's Remarkable Journey

Rag'n'Bone Man's rise to fame is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days in Uckfield to becoming a global sensation, his story shows the power of perseverance and raw talent. His unique blend of blues, soul, and hip-hop has carved out a niche in the music world, making him a standout artist. Hits like "Human" and "Skin" resonate deeply with fans, showcasing his powerful voice and emotional depth. Beyond the music, his humility and dedication to his craft make him a beloved figure. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, there's no denying the impact Rag'n'Bone Man has had on the industry. His journey reminds us that with passion and hard work, dreams can become reality. Keep an eye on this incredible artist; his story is far from over.

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