Loyle Carner, born Benjamin Gerard Coyle-Larner, is an acclaimed English hip hop musician from South London. He is known for his introspective, confessional, and poetic style of rap, often incorporating jazz-infused production. His music delves into themes of personal identity, family, grief, politics, and his experiences with ADHD and dyslexia.
Key aspects of Loyle Carner's career and artistry:
Musical Style: His sound is often described as "languid" and "introspective," blending elements of American hip hop and UK grime with a distinct "old-soul wisdom." He's praised for the seamless match between his lyrics and the music.
Discography:
Yesterday's Gone (2017): His debut album, which earned him a Mercury Prize nomination and critical acclaim for its honest exploration of grief and coming-of-age.
Not Waving, but Drowning (2019): His second album, featuring collaborations with artists like Jorja Smith and Sampha, which further cemented his unique voice in UK rap.
hugo (2022): A powerful and textured album that delves into Black identity, anger, and his relationship with his biological father. It also earned him another Mercury Prize nomination.
hopefully! (2025): His latest studio album, released in June 2025, which explores themes of fatherhood and childhood with a more positive and lighthearted tone.
Personal Themes: Carner frequently draws on his personal life for his lyrics, including the passing of his stepfather (who is even sampled on his debut album), his experiences growing up mixed-race, and his journey with ADHD and dyslexia.
Advocacy: He is a passionate advocate for young people with ADHD and dyslexia, notably founding "Chilli Con Carner," a series of cookery workshops for children with ADHD. He also supports mental health charities like CALM and Black Minds Matter.
Accolades: Besides multiple Mercury Prize nominations, he has also been nominated for three Brit Awards and NME Awards. He received an honorary doctorate from UAL in recognition of his significant impact.
Collaborations: He has collaborated with a diverse range of artists including Tom Misch, Jorja Smith, Kae Tempest, and Madlib.
Loyle Carner is recognized as one of the most vital voices in UK music, celebrated for his authenticity, lyrical depth, and commitment to addressing important personal and societal issues through his art.
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