Craig David has opened up about the pivotal and emotional moment that signalled he had truly arrived in the music industry. The singer, who found global fame at the turn of the millennium, shared that his success was crystallised in a special experience shared with his mother.
The Moment of Realisation
The 44-year-old artist shot to stardom with his massively successful debut studio album, Born To Do It, in 2000. The record, featuring iconic hits like Fill Me In, 7 Days, and Rewind, went straight to number one in August of that year, irrevocably changing his life. Craig recently recalled that the touching moment he realised he had finally made it was during a special outing with his mother, Tina Loftus.
He told The Sun: 'For me, it was taking my mum to Top Of The Pops for the first time.' He described it as one of the most amazing experiences, explaining that they had watched the show together for years. 'And then all of a sudden, you’re in the crowd watching your son on stage,' he added, highlighting the profound nature of the full-circle moment.
A Mother's Honest Opinion
Craig David wrote his debut album in the bedroom of his childhood home in Southampton. Despite his immense success, his mother Tina remains deeply involved in his creative process, though her role has evolved from cheerleader to critic. The singer values her honesty above anyone else's opinion.
He explained that even when he was younger, he would jot down lyrics and melodies in his room before asking her, 'How does this sound?' This tradition continues today, as he sends her every new song for her feedback. Craig revealed a telling pattern: if she replies immediately, he knows the track is a winner. However, if her response takes longer, he assumes she is not a fan. Despite her critical ear, she remains his biggest supporter.
Celebrating 25 Years with Landmark London Shows
As Craig David celebrates the 25th anniversary of Born To Do It, he is marking the occasion with two major shows at London's Hammersmith Eventim Apollo. The concerts are scheduled for April 7 and April 10. The demand from fans was so immense that tickets for the first date sold out within hours, prompting the addition of the extra performance.
These upcoming concerts will be particularly significant, as they will mark the first time in years that Craig performs the entire Born To Do It album from start to finish. Discussing this milestone, he noted that while snippets of the album have been performed on arena tours, the full record has never been played in sequence. Now, he is committed to doing the iconic album justice by singing it all the way through for his dedicated audience.
The interview follows Craig's recent appearance at Global's Make Some Noise Night in London. The charity gala, which raises money for small UK charities supporting those facing poverty, homelessness, and mental health struggles, saw the star deliver a crowd-pleasing set of his biggest hits. The 7 Days hitmaker appeared completely in his element, commanding the stage with his signature dance moves while dressed casually in a blue denim jacket and a plain white T-shirt.
