British rapper Slowthai charged with rape

Grammy-nominated U.K. rapper Slowthai was charged Tuesday with two counts of rape in connection with a September 2021 incident.

A woman told police that the 28-year-old artist, whose legal name is Tyron Frampton, forced her to perform oral sex and raped her, according to the Guardian.

Frampton, who topped the British charts with his 2021 album, “Tyron,” denied the allegations in a social media statement. He was not asked to enter a plea in court.

“I am innocent and I am confident my name will be cleared,” he said. “Until then I will apply my energy to ensure this is concluded swiftly and justly. I ask that my supporters don’t comment about this situation and respect the process and privacy of my family during this time.”

British prosecutors did not reveal any further information about the charges against Frampton, the Guardian reported. Tuesday’s initial hearing in a lower court was a procedural event, and the next hearing will take place in June at a higher court.

Frampton posted bail, according to the Guardian. He spoke in court Tuesday only to confirm his name, date of birth and address.

Frampton began releasing music in 2016 and dropped his debut album, “Nothing Great About Britain,” in 2019. The album was nominated for the Mercury Prize, awarded annually to the best album released by a British or Irish artist.

In 2020, his song “My High” with fellow artists Disclosure and Aminé, was nominated for the Grammy for best dance recording, but did not win. His second album, “Tyron,” topped the British charts while his third album, “Ugly,” went No. 2 upon its release in March 2023.

Frampton has collaborated with a number of American stars, including A$AP Rocky, Gorillaz, James Blake, Dominic Fike, Vince Staples and Tyler, The Creator.

Multiple summer U.K. music festivals have Frampton in their lineups, including Glastonbury and the Reading and Leeds Festivals.