116 Quotes by Tinie Tempah

I’ve seen how much effort has to go into a tour, the performance and also how to look after yourself, not just physically, but mentally too.

I didn’t take it seriously myself at the time, but now all of my old teachers are supportive. Even my principal – I sold out the O2 Arena in London, and he came out to see me, which was really cool. I actually put a picture with him on my Instagram, and I think and he’s wearing one of my snapbacks.

If people are not listening to you as individuals, it’s always good to get together and make a stand for something.

When I got a little older I was obsessed Lil Wayne. But then it was just as many British rappers – Dizzee Rascal I would always listen to.

I lived in Peckham for the first 12 years of my life and then my mum and dad decided they really didn’t want to bring up their children there. So they saved up money and bought a house in Plumstead, semi-detached, three bedrooms.

Coming from an African background, obviously the foundation of the family home is education, probably because my parents had to work a lot harder for everything that they’ve got in this country.

When I was about 14 I remember thinking when it came to proposing to my future girlfriend, I’d make a CD with all her favourite songs and a message that said, ‘Will you marry me?’ Shows you what a romantic I was. No one listens to CDs any more. It’s all about iTunes.

I don’t think I’ve had to change anything, really, apart from being more serious and focussed on my drive. One thing I’ve realised is that you get out what you put in and because of that my work rate has increased ten fold.

My mom used to sell fabric and lace when I was younger. She would bring back these elaborate fabrics from Nigeria. I always enjoyed being around it. However, it wasn’t until I started making music that I started taking a vested interest.