Pete & Bas, the names synonymous with the unlikely yet sensational grandfathers of UK drill, have taken the music scene by storm. But beyond their viral fame and captivating performances, a question lingers: where are Pete & Bas from? This article delves into the backgrounds of Peter Bowditch and Basil Bellgrave, tracing their origins and exploring how their South London roots shaped their unexpected journey into the heart of UK drill music.
South London Bred: The Foundation of Pete & Bas
To understand Pete & Bas, you must first understand South London. Both Peter Bowditch, 70, and Basil Bellgrave, 73, are from South London, born and bred. This shared geographical origin is more than just a coincidence; it’s a fundamental aspect of their identity and music. While their paths before music were quite different, their South London upbringing provides a common thread that binds them together.
Peter Bowditch, known as Pete, boasts a straightforward background rooted in public service. Before spitting bars and captivating audiences, Pete dedicated his career to Royal Mail and Westminster Council. His work life was firmly planted in the everyday reality of London life, experiences that subtly inform the authenticity of his drill persona.
Basil Bellgrave, or Bas, presents a more enigmatic narrative. While Pete’s background is an open book, Bas’s past is shrouded in a playful mystery, adding to his intriguing character. He hints at a colourful history, mentioning a father who owned a bare-knuckle boxing ring. Rumours and self-proclaimed anecdotes paint a picture of a life less ordinary, with whispers of him being a lawyer, an army veteran, and even a 1970s bouncer. He playfully acknowledges these swirling stories, comparing them to Robin Hood legends, suggesting a blend of truth and playful exaggeration. However, Bas definitively states his professions as a helicopter engineer and a carpet seller, adding layers to his already intriguing persona.
Pete and Bas, the UK drill duo, both hail from South London, shaping their unique musical identity.
Interestingly, despite their South London connection, Pete and Bas’s friendship is relatively recent. They met merely five years prior to their musical breakthrough. Pete, on “a little bit of business,” stumbled upon Bas giving piano lessons in a back room of a shop in South London. Drawn by the music, Pete introduced himself, sparking a friendship that Pete jokingly describes as “lifelong… for the last five years.” This chance encounter in South London was the unlikely catalyst for their drill music careers.
From South London Streets to the UK Drill Scene
Pete’s introduction to rap and grime came through his granddaughter’s car radio, initially met with his bewilderment. However, his initial dismissal soon turned into appreciation. “Then I thought, ‘This ain’t too bad’,” Pete admitted, marking the beginning of his unexpected musical awakening. This newfound interest led him to introduce Bas, a Frank Sinatra enthusiast, to the world of rap.
Bas also found himself drawn to the raw energy and storytelling of drill music. Together, fueled by Pete’s granddaughter’s influence and their shared South London experiences, they began writing lyrics in 2017. They tapped into the younger generation, consulting with their grandchildren and their friends to stay current with slang and trends. “I talk to my grandkids and their friends and they just let us know the new idioms – what’s going on now,” Pete explained, highlighting their commitment to authenticity and connection with contemporary youth culture, despite their age.
Pete & Bas, unlikely internet sensations originating from South London, have captivated audiences with their unique drill sound.
Their South London origin is subtly woven into their music, adding an authentic layer to their drill persona. While not explicitly rapping about specific locations, their accents, slang, and lived experiences in South London contribute to the genuine feel of their music. They embody the spirit of London in their own unique, grandfatherly way.
Conquering the UK and Beyond from Their London Base
Pete & Bas’s journey from South London locals to UK drill artists is a testament to their unique appeal and genuine talent. Their first track, “Shut Your Mouth,” released in 2018, quickly gained traction on YouTube, piquing curiosity about the two elderly gentlemen rapping with a blend of modern drill and Cockney slang. Many initially viewed them as a novelty act, but Pete & Bas proved their staying power, consistently releasing tracks like “Do One” and “Dents In a Peugeot,” steadily growing their fanbase.
By 2019, they were featured on prominent UK rap platforms like GRM Daily and Pressplay Media, solidifying their place within the drill scene. They transitioned from playing small pub gigs in Blackheath, London, to selling out shows across the UK, even venturing to Ayia Napa, Cyprus. Even international police officers were charmed by their persona, requesting selfies, showcasing their global appeal.
On set for their “Golf” music video, Pete & Bas, the South London drill artists, collaborate with Norman Pain.
The COVID-19 pandemic, while challenging, paradoxically amplified their popularity. In December 2020, they collaborated with M24, a significant figure in UK drill, on “Old Estate,” further cementing their credibility within the genre. Despite drill music’s often controversial image, Pete & Bas have found acceptance and support from within the drill community. “It’s very unusual, you wouldn’t expect them to be so friendly. They have been very supportive,” Bas remarked, highlighting the welcoming nature of the UK drill scene.
Their appearance on “Plugged In With Fumez The Engineer,” a leading UK drill platform, further propelled their fame, garnering millions of views within a month. Pete & Bas have cultivated a global fanbase, spanning Europe, the US, Australia, and even Japan, demonstrating the universal appeal of their unique story and music, all while staying true to their South London essence.
Bas, one half of the South London drill duo Pete & Bas, performing on “Plugged In With Fumez The Engineer,” a pivotal moment in their career.
South London Grandfathers, Global Drill Sensations
Pete & Bas are more than just a novelty act; they are a genuine part of the UK drill landscape. Their success is rooted in their authenticity, their surprisingly sharp lyricism, and their undeniable charisma. And fundamentally, it’s a story deeply intertwined with where they are from: South London. Their experiences, their upbringing, and their connection to their community have all contributed to their unique and inspiring journey.
From initially being perceived as a comedic act, they have earned respect within the drill community and beyond. They are stopped in the streets by fans of all ages, a testament to their broad appeal. Even within their own families, opinions are evolving, with Pete feeling like a “hero” and Bas becoming a captivating “elephant in the room.”
Looking ahead, Pete & Bas have ambitious plans, including a UK tour and collaborations with major artists. Music has given them a new lease on life. As Pete aptly put it, “If I wasn’t doing music I’d probably be up to no good,” and Bas humorously added, “I’d be sitting in my armchair with my feet up the chimney waiting to die. We’re really living life to the full now.” Their story is a vibrant example of how background and origin can shape even the most unexpected paths to success, proving that Pete & Bas’s South London roots are integral to their global drill phenomenon.
