45 Facts About Craig David

Early Life and Beginnings

Craig David's journey to stardom started in Southampton, England, where his early exposure to music set the stage for his future career.

1. Craig Ashley David was born on May 5, 1981, in Southampton, England.
2. His father, George David, played bass in a reggae band called Ebony Rockers.
3. Teenage Craig often accompanied his father to local dance clubs, where he honed his vocal skills.

Breakthrough and Early Success

Craig David's big break came in the late '90s, leading to a series of successful singles and albums.

4. Craig's first industry gig was on a B-side to British group Damage's cover of "Wonderful Tonight."
5. He gained recognition by doing vocals for the UK garage duo Artful Dodger.
6. Wildstar Records discovered Craig when his manager played his music for the label's co-owner.
7. Colin Lester, co-owner of Wildstar, was impressed by Craig's song "Walking Away."
8. Craig signed a development deal with Wildstar Records after Lester visited his vinyl-filled bedroom.
9. His breakthrough single, "7 Days," hit number two on the UK charts in 1999.

Debut Album: Born to Do It

Craig David's debut album catapulted him to international fame, showcasing his unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and garage.

10. His debut album, Born to Do It, was released in 2000.
11. The album sold over 7 million copies worldwide.
12. Hit singles from the album include "7 Days" and "Fill Me In."
13. Sir Elton John called Craig the best singer in England after hearing the album.
14. "Fill Me In" topped the UK chart as his first single.
15. "Key to My Heart" from the US version of the album was featured in the film Osmosis Jones.

Awards and Collaborations

Craig David's talent has been recognized with numerous awards and collaborations with other artists.

16. In 2001, Craig won three MOBO Awards, including Best Newcomer and Best R&B Act.
17. He has collaborated with artists like Sting, Bastille, and Sigala.
18. In 2018, he was appointed MBE for his services to music.
19. Craig's second album, The Story Goes…, returned him to the top 3 with the single "All the Way."
20. He worked with British rapper Kano on the single "This Is the Girl" in 2007.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Beyond music, Craig David is dedicated to philanthropy and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

21. Craig participated in a desert trek for Comic Relief in 2011, raising money for preventable blindness in Africa.
22. He has a strong social media presence, engaging with fans on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.
23. Craig promotes health and fitness, often sharing his routines and tips with fans.
24. He has supported various charities, including Comic Relief.
25. Craig is known for his down-to-earth personality and commitment to his family.

Comeback and Continued Success

Craig David's career saw a resurgence with his return to his musical roots and continued chart success.

26. His sixth studio album, Following My Intuition, was released in 2016.
27. The album marked a return to his R&B and garage roots.
28. Craig has sold over 15 million records worldwide.
29. He has collaborated with international artists like Tinchy Stryder, Big Narstie, and Hardwell.
30. Craig's songs often perform well on the charts, with singles like "All the Way" and "Don't Love You No More (I'm Sorry)" achieving significant success.

Live Performances and Musical Evolution

Craig David's live performances and evolving sound have kept him relevant in the ever-changing music industry.

31. Craig has performed at major music festivals and concerts around the world.
32. His live performances are known for their high energy and engaging stage presence.
33. Throughout his career, Craig has evolved his sound, experimenting with different genres.
34. His influence can be seen in many contemporary artists.
35. Craig has a dedicated fan base that appreciates his soulful voice and infectious beats.

Business Ventures and Legacy

Craig David's impact extends beyond music, with ventures in business and a lasting legacy in the industry.

36. Craig has launched his own record label, supporting emerging artists.
37. He has been involved in various entrepreneurial projects, expanding his influence beyond music.
38. Craig's legacy in the music industry is undeniable, with over 15 million records sold.
39. His contributions to philanthropy and social media engagement have further solidified his position as a beloved artist.
40. Craig's music is influenced by his early exposure to reggae through his father's band.

Awards and Recognition

Craig David's talent and contributions have been recognized with numerous awards and nominations.

41. Craig has been nominated for several awards, including the BRIT Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards.
42. He has won numerous awards for his contributions to the music industry.
43. Craig's albums have been praised for their unique blend of genres and soulful vocals.
44. His chart-topping albums include Born to Do It, The Story Goes…, and Following My Intuition.
45. Craig's enduring legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

Craig David's Enduring Impact

Craig David's journey from a teenage MC to a global music sensation is a testament to his talent, hard work, and dedication. With over 15 million records sold worldwide, his unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and garage has earned him a distinct sound in the music industry. His debut album, Born to Do It, remains a classic, and his comeback with Following My Intuition shows his staying power. Beyond music, Craig's philanthropic efforts, like his participation in Red Nose Day, highlight his commitment to giving back. His active engagement on social media keeps him connected with fans, while his focus on health and fitness inspires many. Craig David's legacy is undeniable, and he continues to influence new generations of musicians and fans alike. His story is one of resilience, versatility, and enduring appeal.