Hailing from Edmonton, North London, Darren B grew up in a busy Christian household with his parents and his sister. One of his earliest musical memories was sitting in the kitchen whilst listening to his mother sing along to her favourite music acts, which included Dolly Parton, Elvis and Stevie Wonder. Inspired by the words and sounds that these artists produced, even from the tender age of five, Darren B knew that music would play a huge part in his life. By thirteen, Darren had already begun writing his own songs. Many reflected the pain he felt during the sudden traumatic split of his parents. “I kind of went off the rails at that point in my life,†he remembers. “I was constantly getting into trouble, hanging out late and was introduced to all sorts of reckless behaviour. To this day I believe that music was my saviour. Writing for me was a way of getting rid of the sadness I felt insideâ€. Darren B was living in a hostel when he experienced something that would change his life forever. One his dearest and closest friends was tragically killed and after months of analysing his own life and future, Darren decided that he would make some serious changes and focus on his passion – making music. He began networking and was given time in various recording studios where he worked tirelessly to perfect his sound and song writing skills. It was during this time that Darren’s talents were noticed by Mick Hucknell of Simply Red who invited him to practice with the band. An ecstatic Darren couldn’t believe his luck when the ideas he gave to change some of the band’s adlibs were chosen and used in the final recording of their album. Fast forward to 2008 and the 25-year-old is rearing to go! With his debut album almost complete and a much-anticipated first single set for release, he has a lot to smile about. “This time next year, I’d love to see myself with a top ten hit, a MOBO and Brit Award nomination,†he says with a huge grin on his face. The UK music scene is on fire right now with great acts like Estelle, Amy Winehouse and Dizzee Rascal doing big things, Darren’s infectious sound and hauntingly soulful, instantly recognisable vocals will no doubt elevate him to the level of the U.K’s finest.www.darrenbmusic.com www.myspace.com/darrenbmusic TO SEND MUSIC/PRODUCTIONS/BEATS ETC TO DARREN B Please send music to: [email protected]