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Chase & Status are one of the most influential and versatile acts in the UK electronic music scene. They have released six studio albums, each showcasing their distinctive blend of drum and bass, breakbeat, grime, hip hop, dubstep, and electro-pop. They have also worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Plan B, CeeLo Green, Rihanna, Example, and Tinie Tempah. They run their own independent record label, MTA Records, and have founded a music academy, ELAM, to nurture the next generation of talent.
Origins and Early Career
Chase & Status are composed of Saul Milton (Chase) and Will Kennard (Status), who met in London through a mutual friend and later studied at the University of Manchester. They started making music together in 2003, influenced by the likes of Prodigy, Orbital, and the jungle and drum and bass scene. They released their debut EP, The Druids, in 2004, followed by several singles and remixes on various labels, such as Ram Records and Bingo Beats.
They achieved their first UK Dance Chart number one in 2007 with the double A-side “Hurt You” / “Sell Me Your Soul”, and repeated the feat in 2008 with “Take Me Away” / “Judgement (Informer)”. They also gained mainstream recognition with their single “Pieces”, featuring vocals from Plan B, which reached number 70 on the UK Singles Chart and was featured in the movie Harry Brown. They released their first album, More Than Alot, in 2008, which topped the UK Dance Album Chart and received the Best Album Award at the 2009 Drum and Bass Awards.
Subsequent Albums and Success
Chase & Status followed up their debut album with No More Idols in 2011, which showcased a more diverse and adventurous sound. They worked with producers like Jim Abbiss and Alex da Kid, and featured guest vocals from artists like CeeLo Green, Tinie Tempah, Dizzee Rascal, and Rihanna. The album spawned several hit singles, such as “End Credits”, “Let You Go”, “Blind Faith”, and “Time”. The album reached number two on the UK Album Chart and was certified double platinum.
In 2013, Chase & Status released their third album, Brand New Machine, which was inspired by the rave culture of the early 90s. They collaborated with artists like Pusha T, Nile Rodgers, Major Lazer, and Moko. The album included the singles “Lost & Not Found”, “Count on Me”, “Alive”, and “Machine Gun”. The album reached number two on the UK Album Chart and was certified gold.
In 2017, Chase & Status released their fourth album, Tribe, which was a return to their drum and bass roots. They worked with artists like Emeli Sandé, Craig David, Slaves, and Tom Grennan. The album featured the singles “Control”, “All Goes Wrong”, “This Moment”, and “Love Me More”. The album reached number five on the UK Album Chart and was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
In 2019, Chase & Status released their fifth album, RTRN II JUNGLE, which was a tribute to the jungle music of the mid-90s. They worked with legendary producers and MCs from the genre, such as Shy FX, Cutty Ranks, General Levy, and Skibadee. The album featured the singles “Retreat2018”, “Heater”, “Program”, and “Murder Music”. The album reached number 13 on the UK Album Chart and was praised by critics and fans alike.
In 2021, Chase & Status released their sixth album, Engage, which was a celebration of the UK rave culture and its global impact. They worked with artists from different genres and regions, such as Novelist, Kabaka Pyramid, BackRoad Gee, and Irah. The album featured the singles “Engage”, “Why”, “Bubble”, and “Delete”. The album reached number 18 on the UK Album Chart and was hailed as their most ambitious and eclectic work to date.
Future Projects and Plans
Chase & Status are currently working on their seventh album, which is expected to be released in late 2022. They have already released the title track as a single, which is a drum and bass anthem that features vocals from Kano. They have described the album as a “fusion of their influences and experiences”, with more collaborations and surprises to come.
Chase & Status are also planning to resume their live shows, which were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. They have announced dates for their UK and European tour, which will start in March 2023. They have also expressed interest in performing in other parts of the world, such as North America, Asia, and Australia. They have said that they miss the connection with their fans and the energy of the stage.
Chase & Status are one of the most exciting and innovative acts of their time. They have proven their ability to evolve and reinvent themselves, while staying true to their vision and voice. They have also shown their generosity and passion, by supporting various causes and charities, such as War Child, Amnesty International, and the Teenage Cancer Trust. They are a duo with a mission, and a tribe with a spirit.
