Dizzee Rascal: From Music to Plastering and Back
During the lockdown, renowned rapper Dizzee Rascal took the opportunity to broaden his skills by retraining as a plasterer. He disclosed this unique endeavor in an interview with Fix Radio, explaining his desire to “learn to do stuff” amid the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Reskilling During Lockdown
Signing up for the Able Skills Construction Training course in Dartford, Dizzee successfully obtained a City and Guilds Certificate in plastering. Reflecting on his experience, he shared, “I did a plastering course for however long. I forgot how to do it, I got the certificate and everything.”
He enjoyed the training process, adding, “Big up Able Skills, it was wicked.” Interestingly, it took the duration of the course for some of his classmates to recognize him, highlighting a moment of surprise when they finally realized he was a famous musician.
Musical Ventures Post-Lockdown
Returning to his primary passion, Dizzee Rascal released a surprise EP titled I Invented Grime at the end of 2024. This project followed his eighth studio album, Don’t Take It Personal, which featured contributions from artists such as P Money, BackRoad Gee, Not3s, and D Double E. The lead single “What You Know About That,” featuring JME, garnered significant attention.
Recent Highlights and Future Appearances
In recent updates, Dizzee revealed that he previously had the opportunity to work with Beyoncé, receiving a beat for her 2013 single “Partition,” but ultimately had to let it go due to creative blocks.
Looking ahead, he was recently announced as one of the first performers for the 2025 Neighbourhood Weekender, where he will share the stage with acts like James and Stereophonics.
Legacy in Music
Dizzee Rascal continues to celebrate his significant contributions to music, marking the 15th anniversary of his influential album Tongue N’ Cheek last year. His debut album, Boy In Da Corner, played a pivotal role in popularizing grime music in the early 2000s. In 2022, he commemorated the album’s 20th anniversary with a special performance at The O2 in London.
Conclusion
Dizzee Rascal’s journey from the music industry to learning plastering illustrates his multifaceted talents and adaptability. His ability to engage with both music and practical skills speaks to his diverse interests and resilience during challenging times.