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Grime Pioneer Dot Rotten Dies Aged 37
9 Mar
Summary
- British rapper and producer Dot Rotten died in the Gambia.
- He gained fame in the grime scene before achieving chart success.
- Dot Rotten was celebrated for his beat-making and MCing skills.
British musician Joseph Ellis-Stevenson, widely known as Dot Rotten, has died at the age of 37. His family confirmed his passing, and reports indicate he died in the Gambia. Ellis-Stevenson rose to prominence in the vibrant grime scene.
Beginning his career as a teenager with the mixtape 'This Is the Beginning' in 2007, Rotten quickly became a key beat-maker. His productions, such as 'Petrol Bomb,' were foundational for many MCs. He also released seven volumes of his 'Rotten Riddims' series.
Beyond production, Rotten was a notable MC, known for his combative style and clashes with peers. He achieved wider recognition after signing with Mercury Records in 2011, featuring on Ed Sheeran's EP and a charity record.
In 2012, he was nominated for the BBC's Sound of... poll and released his solo Top 20 hit 'Overload.' After leaving Mercury Records, he rebranded as Zeph Ellis, focusing on production and contributing to hits for artists like Kano and Nines.
