Bru-C

Bru-C is Josh Bruce, an MC and rapper from Long Eaton whose career has been closely tied to Nottingham’s bassline and drum and bass scenes. His records move between rave lyrics and more personal writing, with the same straightforward voice carrying both.

He developed through Crucast, working alongside producers and DJs including Darkzy, Skepsis, and Kanine. His first two albums, Original Sounds in 2019 and Smile in 2020, brought together collaborations across the UK bass spectrum. You & I, made with Simula, became one of his most widely recognised recordings, while Streetside paired him with Bou.

His move to 0207 Def Jam came with a contract signed on the street where he grew up in Long Eaton. Discussing it with DJ Mag, he explained that he wanted the occasion to reflect who he was, rather than turning it into a champagne moment in London. The same interview found him talking about the urgency behind his work and his determination to build a career his son could look up to.

Records including Paradise with Wilkinson and No Excuses continued the drum and bass side of his catalogue while giving more space to reflective writing. His third album, Family Only, arrived in June 2024, with contributors including Wretch 32 and MC Spyda.