Dot Rotten, rapper and grime pioneer, dies aged 37

EntertainmentMusic
9 Mar 2026 • 11:32 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

image is not available

  • Grime pioneer and rapper Dot Rotten has passed away at the age of 37.
  • Born Joseph Ellis, he was widely recognised for his 2012 hit single "Overload".
  • Throughout his career, he collaborated with notable artists including Ed Sheeran, Cher Lloyd, and Chip.
  • Dot Rotten was also nominated for the prestigious BBC's Sound of 2012 award.
  • Tributes have begun to emerge, with his music manager Bouncer Play Dirty sharing condolences on Instagram.

IN FULL