Rodney Smith aka Roots Manuva is one of the titans of Black British music, known for his distinctive voice, complex lyricism, and genre-blending production. His innovative sound being one that merges hip-hop with reggae, dub, and electronic influences which established him as seminal figure in the UK music scene.
Smith released Run Come Save Me in 2001, a groundbreaking album that solidified his place in the pantheon of hip-hop greats. The album featured the hit single Witness (1 Hope), which become an anthem and is often cited as one of the greatest UK hip-hop tracks of all time.
His influence is one that extends beyond solo work. He had collaborated with a diverse array of artists, including the Gorillaz, The Cinematic Orchestra, and Coldcut, bringing his distinctive style to a wide range of musical projects. His contributions to the development of the UK hip-hop scene have also been recognised with numerous awards and honours, cementing his legacy as a true innovator.
No Strings
Bashment Boogie
Witness (1 Hope)
Join the Dots
Ital Visions
Artical
Hol' It Up
Stone the Crows
Kicking the Cack
Dub Styles
Trim Body
Sinny Sin Sins
Evil Rabbit
Swords in the Dirt
Highest Grade
Dreamy Days