In a revealing interview with Apple Music 1’s Dotty, West London rap sensation Central Cee spoke candidly about his landmark performance at The O2 Arena, the evolution of his stage shows, and how he finds balance amid his skyrocketing fame.
On performing at The O2 Arena
Central Cee called his O2 headliner a major milestone, describing it as a dream moment for any UK artist.
“It’s a big day, isn’t it?! As a rapper or any artist from the UK, The O2, that’s probably a dream for anyone,” he said.
“It’s the reward that you get from taking a risk, innit? To me, it’s not a chance, I didn’t get lucky. I actually worked.”
He recalled his early days performing to just 250 people at O2 Islington in 2016, underscoring the journey to selling out one of the UK’s most iconic venues.
On how he wants to evolve his live performances
Reflecting on his stagecraft, Central Cee revealed he’s aiming for more theatrical storytelling in future shows.
“I would’ve toned down the visuals… and had more moving parts,” he explained.
“There’s a bit in the show on ‘Day in the Life’ where the mandem are performing a robbery live on stage… I could’ve done a whole show like that — kind of a West End, Broadway thing.”
On surprise guests at the O2
The rapper also teased a star-studded lineup for his show, featuring some of the biggest names in music.
“I’ve got [Lil] Baby, Sexyy Red, Skepta, Young Adz, Dave,” he revealed.
“Me and Dave’s never even performed ‘UK Rap’ together before, so that should be great.”
On escaping the chaos of fame
Despite the glitz, Central Cee admits he finds real peace in solitude — especially when he switches off from his phone.
“I’ve turned my phone off for seven days straight — in Thailand, and even in my house in England,” he shared.
“It’s mad how quick you find calmness… Yesterday I was stressed about the show, the guest list, and all that. Then I just switched off, and straight away, I found calmness in my head.
On what will bring fulfillment in the future
Looking beyond music and fame, Central Cee said he envisions a quieter, simpler life down the line.
“Having kids and raising kids… Just little things,” he said.
“Right now, this ain’t really living. This is just working. And one day, I’ll live a life and have a life.”
As one of the UK’s most prominent rap voices, Central Cee continues to evolve, not just as a performer — but as a person.
