Phaser, a well-known name in the UK music scene, has always been more than just a rapper. As a founding member of N-Dubz, he has seen the highs and lows of fame while carrying the weight of Camden’s rough-and-ready urban life on his shoulders. Recently, on the Criminal Connection Podcast with Terry Stone, Phaser opened up about his journey, from his childhood in Camden to his adventures as one of the masterminds behind the chart-topping band, N-Dubz. What started as a light-hearted interview about music quickly became an insightful deep dive into Phaser’s roots, friendships, hardships, and unyielding drive to succeed. Let’s explore some of the standout moments from that conversation.
Camden's Real Streets: A Backdrop to Success
Phaser's Camden upbringing played a crucial role in shaping who he is today. Camden, often known for its trendy markets and vibrant music scene, had a different face for those who grew up on its council estates. Phaser described a Camden where poverty and gang life were common, where the streets were as rough as they were real.
In his early years, Phaser was surrounded by friends who, unlike him, were "trapping" — dealing drugs — and flaunting the riches that came with it. Though he dabbled in that lifestyle, Phaser always had his eyes on music. As a teenager, he was already choosing studio time over school, diving headfirst into his passion for music production. The streets may have tempted him, but it was his love for music that truly kept him grounded.
The Brotherhood with Dappy and Tulisa: A Lifelong Bond
Phaser met Dappy, his bandmate, at just six years old in a karate class. Their friendship was instant, though their paths wouldn't officially merge until later, when Dappy got expelled from his school and ended up attending Phaser's. From then on, the two were inseparable, often heading to Dappy’s father’s studio to record songs.
Tulisa, Dappy’s cousin, was the final piece of the N-Dubz puzzle. Despite her initial resistance to joining the group, a family bargain convinced her to lend her voice to their tracks. It’s hard to imagine the group without Tulisa now, but back then, it took 50 quid from her uncle to finally get her into the studio. Little did they know, this moment would lead to a 10-year grind that would make them household names.
The Early Struggles: 10 Years Before Success
Before N-Dubz became the sensation it is today, they spent 10 years hustling in the underground music scene. Their first major break came when one of their tracks, You Better Not Waste My Time, hit the now-defunct Channel U. The video’s constant requests from fans propelled the group into the limelight, showcasing not only their raw talent but also their unique style of storytelling through music. They were creating songs that spoke to the working-class youth, particularly those who had grown up in areas like Camden.
Yet, even after the success of their first hit, it was not all smooth sailing. Phaser admitted that there were times when they doubted whether fame would ever come. But through sheer perseverance and hard work, they pushed forward, eventually landing in the UK’s biggest arenas.
The Music Machine Behind N-Dubz: Phaser's Role
Many fans might view Phaser as simply the rapper of the group, but behind the scenes, he was the glue that held N-Dubz’s music together. He produced all of their tracks and orchestrated the band’s tours, overseeing everything from sound checks to live arrangements. His ability to strip down their songs and reimagine them for live performances played a key role in N-Dubz's success on stage.
Phaser's attention to detail and relentless work ethic ensured that N-Dubz's music was not only catchy but also filled with authenticity. His talent for production has allowed the group to remain self-sufficient, creating hit records from scratch, often without outside influence. Even today, Phaser remains an integral part of the group’s creative process.
The Dark Side of Fame: Pressures, Arrests, and Media Scrutiny
Success often comes with unwanted baggage, and for N-Dubz, it was no different. Phaser recounted moments of intense media scrutiny, including when Dappy was arrested after a fight at a petrol station. Living life under a microscope meant that every mistake was magnified, and sometimes the press even orchestrated negative stories to trap them.
Phaser shared one such moment when Tulisa was embroiled in an entrapment scandal, resulting in her being plastered across every newspaper in the country. Despite their efforts to contribute positively to the world, like being involved in anti-bullying campaigns, the group often found themselves battling a tide of negative press.
Touring with N-Dubz: Pranks, Laughter, and Perfectionism
N-Dubz's tours were not just about selling out arenas; they were about creating memories. Phaser explained how, while on tour, they had strict rules on the tour bus: no sleeping in communal areas and definitely no using the bathroom for "number twos." Of course, rules were often broken, leading to pranks and hilarious situations that would leave anyone in stitches.
But beneath the laughs, there was an intense focus on perfectionism. Phaser shared how the band’s biggest argument last year wasn’t about money or fame, but about the setlist for their shows. The arguments may have been fierce, but they stemmed from a deep passion for their craft and a shared desire to put on the best show possible.
What's Next for N-Dubz?
The future for N-Dubz is still bright. After their wildly successful 2023 tour, Phaser hinted at new music and another tour in the works for 2025. Despite their 10-year hiatus, their fanbase remains as loyal as ever, and with each passing year, they continue to attract a new generation of listeners.
Phaser also shared his plans for continuing his work as a producer, helping other artists achieve their own success while staying true to his own musical roots.
The Key to Success: Hard Work, Passion, and Perseverance
Throughout the podcast, Phaser emphasized the importance of hard work and knowing exactly what you want. He encouraged listeners to act with urgency, pursuing their goals with the knowledge that the universe has a way of aligning everything in their favor if they stay dedicated.
In his own words, "You have to be an animal in this life. You have to go for it like your life depends on it, because it does." For Phaser, success wasn’t handed to him on a silver platter — it was earned through years of dedication, hustle, and a belief that his dreams were achievable.
Phaser's story is a testament to what can be accomplished when talent meets hard work. From the rough streets of Camden to the stages of sold-out arenas, he continues to inspire both his fans and the music industry with his authenticity, creativity, and unbreakable spirit.