Nathan Tokosi: From Drill Music Stardom to Legal Battles
Nathan Tokosi, widely known by his stage name DigDat, is one of the most talked-about figures in the UK drill and hip-hop scene. His story is one of talent, fame, and controversy—a journey from promising music stardom to facing serious legal troubles. Born in Deptford, London, Tokosi quickly rose to fame with chart-topping singles, only to see his career clouded by a series of criminal convictions.
This article takes a detailed look at Nathan Tokosi’s early life, rise in the music industry, notable achievements, legal issues, and his current status. It aims to provide an informative, comprehensive, and humanized profile of a young man whose life story has gripped both music lovers and mainstream media alike.
Early Life of Nathan Tokosi
Childhood in Deptford
Nathan Tokosi was born on November 10, 1999, in Deptford, South East London. Growing up in a challenging environment, his early years were heavily influenced by the socio-economic difficulties that shaped many young men in his community. These circumstances would later play a pivotal role in his music style, lyrics, and public persona.
Early Trouble with the Law
At just 13 years old, Tokosi was involved in a violent stabbing incident that led to a 10-year prison sentence. He served four years before being released in 2018. This period in juvenile detention not only marked him but also influenced his outlook on life and music, giving him firsthand experience of street violence and survival.
Nathan Tokosi’s Rise in the Music Industry
The Emergence of DigDat
After his release in 2018, Tokosi rebranded himself as DigDat, stepping into the UK drill scene with powerful lyrics and beats that resonated with many young listeners. His raw storytelling and authenticity quickly set him apart.
Breakout Hit: “Air Force”
His single “Air Force” was the breakthrough that put him on the map. Initially entering the UK Singles Chart at number 93, the remix featuring Krept & Konan and K-Trap skyrocketed to number 20, cementing his position in the competitive UK drill landscape.
Albums and Collaborations
In 2020, Tokosi released his debut album Ei8ht Mile, which climbed to number 12 on the UK Albums Chart. Two years later, he followed up with Pain Built in 2022, an album that showcased his evolution as an artist, blending introspection with his signature street-style bravado.
His collaborations with other prominent drill and rap artists further solidified his reputation as a rising star in British urban music.
Legal Troubles and Downfall
The Notting Hill Shooting
In November 2023, Tokosi’s name surfaced in connection with a drive-by shooting in Notting Hill, where a man named Daniel Offei-Ntow was shot multiple times but miraculously survived. The incident shocked fans and reignited public debates about violence in the UK drill scene.
Arrest and Charges
By February 2024, police investigations linked Tokosi to the incident. Evidence, including DNA traces and surveillance footage, connected him to a stolen Audi and a BMW used during the crime. He was arrested and faced severe charges, including:
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Attempted murder
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Possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life
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Possession of ammunition without a license
Court Trial and Conviction
The trial at the Old Bailey drew widespread media attention. Prosecutors presented compelling evidence tying Tokosi to the attack, and in March 2025, he was found guilty on all charges. The judge described the victim as “lucky to be alive,” underscoring the severity of the crime.
Tokosi now awaits sentencing, marking a dramatic fall from grace for the young artist.
The Impact on the UK Drill Scene
Music Industry Reaction
Nathan Tokosi’s conviction has sparked conversations across the UK music industry. While some argue that his legal troubles tarnish the drill genre’s reputation, others see his story as a cautionary tale about the challenges young artists face when trying to escape cycles of violence.
Influence on Aspiring Artists
Despite his controversies, Tokosi remains an influential figure in UK drill. His rise from the streets to the charts is a testament to talent and resilience, even as his personal choices have complicated his legacy. For many young fans, his music still represents the voice of their communities.
Lessons from Nathan Tokosi’s Journey
Talent vs. Choices
Tokosi’s story highlights the delicate balance between natural talent and life choices. While his musical skills earned him fame and financial success, his inability to fully distance himself from street violence ultimately derailed his promising career.
The Pressure of Fame
The rapid rise to fame often brings immense pressure, especially for young artists from disadvantaged backgrounds. Without proper guidance and support systems, these pressures can lead to destructive decisions that have lifelong consequences.
A Cautionary Tale
Nathan Tokosi’s life serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring artists. It emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and making conscious efforts to separate personal growth from past environments.
The Future of Nathan Tokosi
Awaiting Sentencing
As of 2025, Tokosi awaits formal sentencing following his conviction. The length and severity of his prison term will shape the next chapter of his life and possibly his future in music.
Potential Musical Legacy
Despite his legal troubles, Tokosi’s contributions to UK drill are undeniable. Songs like “Air Force” and albums like Ei8ht Mile remain staples in the genre, ensuring that his influence will linger even if his active career faces a lengthy pause.
Redemption and Reflection
Many fans and industry insiders hope that Tokosi uses this time for reflection and personal growth. Stories of redemption are not uncommon in the music world, and with the right mindset, he could one day make a powerful comeback.
Conclusion
Nathan Tokosi’s story is a complex mix of triumph and tragedy. From his rise as DigDat, a talented young rapper breaking into the mainstream, to his fall due to serious criminal convictions, his journey serves as both an inspiration and a warning.
For the UK drill scene, Tokosi remains a significant figure—a reminder of both the opportunities and the pitfalls that come with fame. Whether he finds redemption in the future remains to be seen, but his legacy as an artist and the lessons from his life are already cemented in the annals of British music history.
