Craig David

Early Life

Craig Ashley David was born on May 5, 1981, in Southampton, Hampshire, England. He is the only child of Tina, a retail assistant, and George David, a carpenter. Growing up in the Holyrood estate, Craig faced challenges, including bullying at school, which he later addressed in his music, notably in the song "Johnny". His father, originally from Grenada, played bass in a reggae band, which influenced Craig's early interest in music. He began performing in local dance clubs as a teenager, honing his skills as an MC and DJ.

Career

David's music career took off in 1999 when he featured on the Artful Dodger's hit single "Re-Rewind". This success led to his debut album, "Born to Do It", released in 2000, which achieved significant commercial success. Over the years, he has released several albums, including "Slicker Than Your Average" (2002) and "Following My Intuition" (2016). Known for his smooth blend of rhythm and blues, pop, and soul, Craig has collaborated with various artists, including Sting and Tiwa Savage. His ability to write relatable songs has solidified his place in the music industry.

Personal Life and Activism

Craig David is of Jewish heritage and is a passionate supporter of Southampton F.C. In 2010, he was appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador by the World Health Organization to combat tuberculosis, highlighting his commitment to social issues. He has also been involved in various campaigns promoting environmental awareness, including a recent initiative encouraging train travel to reduce CO2 emissions. In recognition of his contributions to music, he was appointed MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours List in 2020, receiving the award at Windsor Castle in December 2021.