Pete & Bas, the names echoing through the UK drill and grime scene, are synonymous with raw energy and unexpected charisma. Hailing from the heart of South London, this dynamic duo has captivated audiences worldwide, sparking a whirlwind of curiosity and, inevitably, rumors. Born into a world far removed from today’s digital beats, their journey is as intriguing as their music. But amidst the hype and headlines, one question persistently surfaces: Are Pete And Bas Real? Are they truly the septuagenarian rappers taking the music world by storm, or is there more to this captivating act than meets the eye?
Delving into the Reality of Pete & Bas
The skepticism surrounding Pete & Bas is understandable. In an industry often dominated by youthful energy, the emergence of two seasoned gentlemen in their 70s rapping drill and grime naturally raises eyebrows. Some critics dismiss them as a mere gimmick, a fleeting attempt to grab attention in a saturated market. This doubt is further fueled by a deliberate air of mystery surrounding their backgrounds. Information is scarce, adding to the enigma. However, peeling back the layers of speculation reveals the genuine individuals behind the personas.
Bas: From Law Firm to Lyrical Flow
Bas’s background is a testament to a life richly lived and unexpectedly varied. Far from a manufactured image, Bas’s past is grounded in diverse experiences. He has openly shared his time serving in the Army as a helicopter engineer, a profession demanding precision and technical skill. Following his military service, he navigated the world of sales as a carpet salesman, honing his people skills and business acumen. In a significant career shift, Bas established his own law firm, showcasing his intellectual capabilities and entrepreneurial spirit. Adding another layer to his multifaceted life, Bas dabbled in amateur acting, even appearing in short films. This theatrical experience, while sometimes used by detractors to question their authenticity, actually highlights Bas’s long-standing performance background.
Beyond his professional life, Bas’s passion for music is undeniable. He spent time as a pianist on cruise ships, entertaining audiences with his musical talent. He even released an album of piano music, demonstrating his deep connection to melody and rhythm. It was this very passion that led him to teaching piano in the back of a corner shop, Sindhuworld, the serendipitous location where he met Pete.
Pete: From Council Work to Cockney Rhymes
Pete’s journey to grime stardom is equally authentic and unexpected. Before spitting bars, Pete dedicated his career to public service, working for Westminster Council and the Royal Mail. His introduction to drill music was as accidental as it was transformative. It was his granddaughter who tuned into drill and grime radio stations in his car, initially to Pete’s frustration. However, his initial annoyance gave way to curiosity as he began to listen more intently. He became intrigued by the genre’s raw energy and lyrical complexity.
Pete’s inquisitive nature led him to introduce drill music to Bas, sparking a creative partnership that would redefine their lives. Inspired by artists recommended by Bas’s granddaughter, the duo developed a genuine appreciation for UK drill. They resonated with the genre’s storytelling, wordplay, and gritty beats. In 2017, Pete and Bas officially formed their duo, releasing their debut single “Shut Ya Mouth” and embarking on an improbable yet undeniably real musical adventure.
Unraveling the Pete & Bas Rumors and Mystery
The mystique surrounding Pete & Bas is not accidental; it’s part of their charm. The internet, particularly platforms like Reddit, buzzes with speculation and theories about the duo. This deliberate ambiguity only fuels the intrigue and aligns perfectly with Pete & Bas’s stated desire to maintain an element of mystery.
Common rumors include accusations of ghostwriting and questioning the authenticity of their rapping. Given the gritty nature of drill and grime, some find it hard to believe that two men of their age are genuinely “about that life.” While their age certainly sets them apart, it doesn’t negate their genuine engagement with the genre and their lived experiences in London’s underbelly.
Kray Twins and Bareknuckle Boxing: Fact or Fiction?
One particularly colorful rumor connects Pete & Bas to London’s notorious criminal underworld, specifically the Kray twins and the Richardson gang. This rumor gains traction when considering their South London origins and their association with areas historically linked to crime. Bas himself has mentioned his father running a bareknuckle boxing ring, adding a layer of plausibility to these tales of old-school London grit.
While direct involvement with the Krays or Richardsons remains unconfirmed, the rumors highlight the genuine “Cockney geezer” persona that Pete & Bas embody. Their accents, slang, and lyrical content resonate with a genuine London upbringing, lending credibility to their stories and captivating their audience. They sound like they’ve lived the life they rap about, even if the specifics are embellished or shrouded in playful mystery.
Do Pete & Bas Actually Write Their Own Music?
The question of songwriting authenticity is central to the “are Pete and Bas real?” debate. Their lyrics are peppered with both contemporary street slang and classic Cockney phrases, creating a unique linguistic blend. Lines like “this party’s dead and I’m feeling wavey” alongside references to “dirt and it all got dirty 30s, 2-2s, and 4-4s” showcase this intriguing mix. This raises questions about how two men in their 70s keep up with evolving slang.
However, the genius of their lyrics lies in the fusion of old and new. They seamlessly blend modern street talk with the language of old-school London gangsters. Their track “Old Estate,” with the line “Got an arsenal down in south, got a pig farm out in west,” is a prime example, referencing classic gangster tropes popularized by films like Guy Ritchie’s “Snatch.”
Pete & Bas openly acknowledge receiving input from their grandchildren, particularly regarding contemporary slang and trends. This collaboration is not unusual in the music industry; many artists rely on teams for various aspects of their creative process. It’s a testament to their adaptability and willingness to bridge generational gaps, rather than evidence against their authenticity.
Sindhuworld: The Unlikely Birthplace of a Grime Sensation
Sindhuworld, a seemingly ordinary corner shop in London, plays a pivotal role in the Pete & Bas story. More than just a place to buy groceries, Sindhuworld cultivated an online presence through Instagram, showcasing its daily offerings and quirky events, even arm wrestling contests. Remarkably, it became the backdrop for a music video featuring its elderly clientele. Adding to its eccentric history, Sindhuworld faced a run-in with trading standards for selling homemade “health juice” – Basil Juice – marketed on Instagram without proper labeling.
While Sindhuworld, in its physical form, appears to be closed, its spirit lives on. It has transitioned into a management and label services company, becoming the driving force behind Pete & Bas, as well as other acts like The Northern Boys and The Snooker Team. Sindhuworld is not just a quirky footnote; it’s the very ground from which Pete & Bas emerged, adding another layer to their undeniably real and unconventional story.
Pete & Bas: From Underground to Mainstream
Pete & Bas’s journey is a story of organic growth and increasing recognition. A turning point arrived in 2021 with their explosive “Plugged In” performance with Fumez The Engineer. The raw energy of Pete’s raspy voice combined with Bas’s deep tones, flowing over Fumez’s remix of The Fugees’ “Ready or Not,” captivated audiences and silenced many doubters.
This performance catapulted them to a wider audience, including international recognition. Popular YouTube reaction channels and even figures like Logan and Jake Paul shared and reacted to their music, exposing them to a massive US audience. Their consistent output of high-quality music, coupled with relentless energy, has garnered millions of views and streams. Endorsements from established UK artists like Jaykae, Mist, D Double E, Dizzee Rascal, Giggs, Headie One, and Dave further solidify their position in the UK music scene.
Versatility and Undeniable Impact
Pete & Bas are not confined to a single style. They demonstrated their versatility by collaborating with Vibe Chemistry on the drum & bass track “Baddest,” alongside Jaykae, Grima X Azza, and P Money. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries further cements their relevance and appeal.
Regardless of initial skepticism, Pete & Bas’s impact on the UK drill and grime scene is undeniable. They bring a unique comedic and refreshing element to a genre often associated with seriousness and intensity. They are genuinely living their best lives, proving that age is no barrier to creativity and success. So, are Pete and Bas real? The answer is a resounding yes. They are not a manufactured act but a genuine duo who have carved their own unique and impactful space in the music world. Their authenticity lies not in conforming to expectations, but in defying them with every beat and bar.
