Hailing from the vibrant streets of South London, Pete & Bas have become an unlikely yet undeniable force in the UK drill and grime scene. Born in the post-war baby boom era, these septuagenarians have lived through more than just the evolution of music; they’ve witnessed history. In fact, remarkably, they predate hip-hop itself.
Pete & Bas defy every stereotype associated with drill rappers. Initial impressions might lead to dismissal – two older gentlemen from Cockney London venturing into a genre typically dominated by younger voices. However, to underestimate them would be a grave mistake. Pete & Bas have not only entered the UK’s drill and grime landscape; they’ve taken it by storm, sparking curiosity and a whirlwind of rumors.
The enigma surrounding Pete & Bas is part of their appeal. This article delves into the questions and controversies that swirl around them, aiming to illuminate their extraordinary journey and answer the burning question: Do Pete And Bas Actually Rap? We’ll explore their backgrounds, their music, and the authenticity that underpins their surprising success.
Unmasking Pete & Bas: More Than Meets the Eye
For those skeptical of their rise, branding Pete & Bas as merely a novelty act is a common refrain. This skepticism stems, in part, from the deliberately cultivated air of mystery surrounding their personal lives. Information is scarce, adding to their intrigue. What is known is that prior to their unexpected fame, both Pete and Bas led lives grounded in everyday professions.
Bas: From Law Firms to Lyrical Flows
Bas’s background is a tapestry of diverse experiences. In past interviews, he’s revealed a past career as a helicopter engineer in the Army, followed by a stint as a carpet salesman. In a significant career shift, Bas later established his own law firm, showcasing an unexpected professional versatility. Adding another layer to his persona, Bas has a history in amateur acting, with credits in several short films. This acting background has, ironically, been used by some to question their authenticity, suggesting their rap persona is merely another performance.
Beyond law and acting, music has always been a part of Bas’s life. He spent time as a pianist on cruise ships and even released an album of piano compositions. It was through music, specifically piano lessons, that Bas’s path intersected with Pete’s, in an unexpected location: the back of a corner shop named Sindhuworld.
Pete: From Royal Mail to Rhythmic Rhymes
Before his musical partnership with Bas in Sindhuworld, Pete’s professional life was rooted in public service, with roles at Westminster Council and the Royal Mail. Pete’s introduction to drill music was a chance encounter, sparked by his granddaughter’s radio choices in his car. Initially resistant, Pete’s frustration with the unfamiliar sounds eventually turned into curiosity. He became intrigued by the genre, and it was Pete who ultimately introduced drill music to Bas.
Inspired by artist recommendations from Bas’s granddaughter, the duo developed a genuine appreciation for UK drill. They were drawn to the genre’s lyrical complexity, gritty beats, and narrative depth. In 2017, Pete and Bas officially formed their duo, marking their entry into the music world with their debut single, “Shut Ya Mouth.”
Decoding the Pete & Bas Enigma: Rumors and Reality
The internet, particularly platforms like Reddit, buzzes with speculation about Pete & Bas. Rumors and theories abound, fueled by their unconventional story and the deliberate mystique they cultivate. Pete & Bas themselves have acknowledged and even embraced this enigmatic aura, stating they “wouldn’t want it any other way.”
Among the persistent rumors are claims that they don’t actually rap themselves, that ghostwriters are behind their lyrics, and, given the often-associated themes of drill and grime, that they “are not about that life.” The latter, especially considering their age, is a point of frequent discussion.
Kray Twins and Bareknuckle Boxing: London Lore?
One particularly intriguing rumor connects Pete & Bas to London’s notorious criminal underworld. This speculation considers their South London origins, areas like Battersea, Brixton, and Peckham, historically known for high crime rates dating back to the 1950s.
Rumors suggest connections to the Richardson Gang and the infamous Kray twins. While direct involvement remains unconfirmed, Bas has publicly stated that his father ran a bareknuckle boxing ring, placing them tangentially within circles where such figures might have been known.
Ultimately, Pete & Bas’s authenticity lies in their sound. They genuinely sound like seasoned Cockney Londoners who have mastered the art of flow and lyricism to tell their stories. Coupled with their lyrical content, distinct personal style, and growing popularity, it’s natural that inquisitive minds question the reality behind the persona. But do Pete and Bas actually rap? The answer, unequivocally, is yes.
Lyrical Authenticity: Do Pete & Bas Write Their Own Music?
For the most part, the answer is a resounding yes. Pete & Bas are credited with writing their own music. However, the question of how they navigate contemporary slang naturally arises. With lyrics incorporating phrases like “now, I don’t mean to be rude, but this party’s dead and I’m feeling wavey,” and references to “dirty 30s, 2-2s, and 4-4s,” it’s understandable to wonder about their sources of inspiration and knowledge.
The key to their lyrical style is their masterful blend of old-school Cockney slang with modern street vernacular. Their lyrics often echo the language and attitudes of classic London gangsters, seamlessly interwoven with contemporary slang. The track “Old Estate” exemplifies this, with lines like “Got an arsenal down in south, got a pig farm out in west, so just drop one text, fly down the M25 no stress.” This line directly references Guy Ritchie’s iconic film Snatch, showcasing their ability to bridge generations through language and cultural references.
Grandchild Guidance: Staying Current
Pete & Bas openly acknowledge receiving input from their grandchildren, particularly regarding contemporary slang and trends within drill music. This collaboration is a pragmatic approach, given the constantly evolving nature of street slang and the duo’s age. In today’s music industry, collaboration and teamwork are commonplace. Most successful artists rely on teams for various aspects of their careers, and Pete & Bas’s reliance on family for cultural insight is no different.
Ultimately, Pete & Bas’s appeal lies in their entertainment value and the refreshing comedic element they bring to the often-serious world of drill and grime. They are not just studio artists; Pete & Bas are active performers, regularly touring and delivering high-energy live shows that captivate diverse audiences.
Their live performances are a testament to their genuine artistry. In March 2024, they embarked on another tour, consistently energizing crowds with their sharp lyrics, smooth flows, and a stage presence that rivals artists decades younger. This live energy further dispels any doubts – Pete and Bas actually rap, and they do it with undeniable skill and passion.
Sindhuworld: The Corner Shop Cradle of Grime
Sindhuworld, a seemingly ordinary corner shop in London, played an extraordinary role in the Pete & Bas story. Beyond selling everyday essentials, Sindhuworld cultivated a significant Instagram following through its quirky content. From showcasing daily specials to hosting arm wrestling contests and even filming a music video featuring elderly customers, Sindhuworld became a local hub and a social media sensation. Ironically, their homemade “health juice,” “Basil Juice,” marketed on Instagram with Bas’s image, led to a run-in with trading standards and a temporary shutdown.
Despite the shop’s closure, Sindhuworld evolved. In a true entrepreneurial spirit, Sindhuworld transitioned into management and label services. They are now the force behind Pete & Bas, as well as other unique acts like The Northern Boys (another group of rapping pensioners) and The Snooker Team (a collaboration between Pete & Bas and The Northern Boys).
Production Value and Mainstream Recognition
Pete & Bas’s rising popularity and sold-out shows naturally led to increased budgets and opportunities for higher production quality and collaborations.
A pivotal moment arrived in 2021 with their appearance on “Plugged In” with Fumez The Engineer. Their performance, a remix of The Fugees’ “Ready or Not,” showcased Pete’s distinctive raspy voice and Bas’s deep tones, their seamless back-and-forth flow, and impeccable delivery. The performance went viral, generating widespread disbelief and admiration.
This “Plugged In” appearance broadened their fanbase significantly, particularly in the US. Popular YouTube music reaction channels and prominent figures like Logan and Jake Paul reacted to and shared their music, introducing Pete & Bas to a global audience.
Unrivaled Hustle and Industry Co-signs
Beyond enhanced production, Pete & Bas have maintained a prolific release schedule, consistently dropping tracks and building a massive online presence. Their energy and dedication have earned them millions of views and streams, solidifying their place in the music scene. Their talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by industry heavyweights. Pete & Bas have received endorsements and co-signs from major UK artists including Jaykae, Mist, D Double E, Dizzee Rascal, Giggs, Headie One, and Dave, further validating their authenticity and impact.
Versatility and Genre Expansion
With increased attention following their 2021 breakthrough, Pete & Bas continued releasing viral tracks and expanding their social media reach. Demonstrating their versatility, they ventured into drum & bass in late 2023, collaborating with Vibe Chemistry on the track “Baddest,” alongside established artists Jaykae, Grima X Azza, and P Money.
Regardless of individual opinions, Pete & Bas’s impact on the UK drill and grime scene is undeniable. They are not just participating in the genre; they are actively reshaping perceptions and proving that age is no barrier to creativity and success. Ultimately, Pete & Bas are living life to the fullest, and their infectious energy and swagger are something to admire, regardless of age.
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