This is Unsung, our podcast with Sonos Radio where the world’s greatest artists reveal their heroes who never caught the spotlight.

To round off the series, we’re touching base with a true musical innovator. Dizzee Rascal is one of the most influential British artists of the 21st century. Born and raised in East London, his musical journey started aged 14, rapping over jungle and drum ‘n’ bass on London’s pirate stations. In 2003, Dizzee released his debut album, 'Boy In Da Corner'. Capturing the tension and isolation of inner-city life through lucid lyrical storytelling and a groundbreaking production style now known globally as grime.

Dizzee’s Unsung choice is Memphis rapper Project Pat. First making waves through collaborations with Three Mix Mafia, the hugely influential rap trio founded by his brother Juicy J, Pat’s distinctive flow, playfully irreverent lyrics and his taste for minimal, lo-fi beats gained him cult status and helped anoint the South and the new capital of US rap. It’s also a sound which, in the 90s, captured the attention of a young Dizzee Rascal, then a schoolboy in Tower Hamlets.

Dizzee talks to journalist and documentary maker Kieran Yates about discovering Pat, his affinity with Southern hip-hop which led to a 2007 collaboration with Pimp C and Bun B of UGK and what it means for music to be a product of its environment. 

The series is produced by Eliza Lomas and mixed by Becky Street. The series leads are Duncan Harrison and Luke Sutton.

Project Pat: If You Ain't from My Hood (feat. DJ Paul & Juicy J)

Three 6 Mafia: Azz & Titties

Dizzee Rascal: Kryme

Dizzee Rascal: I Luv U

Project Pat: Y’all Ni**az Ain’t No Killaz, Y’all Ni**az Some Hoes

Three 6 Mafia: Sippin On Some Syrup

Dizzee Rascal: Where's Da G's

Skepta: It Ain't Safe

Project Pat: Aggravated Robbery

Project Pat: Don't Save Her

Project Pat: Chickenhead

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