Tinie Tempah: Chart-Topping Rapper Turned Presenter and Dragons’ Den Star
Tinie Tempah, a prominent figure in the music industry, has recently joined the lineup of guest investors on BBC’s Dragons’ Den for its 23rd series. Following the departure of Sara Davies, Tempah takes the stage alongside established investors including Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Touker Suleyman, and Steven Bartlett. Known as a chart-topping rapper and entrepreneur, Tempah brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the show.
Tinie Tempah: A Career Overview
The British rapper, whose real name is Patrick Chukwuemeka Okogwu, initially found fame in 2010 with his UK number one single “Pass Out.” He quickly became a staple in the UK music scene, boasting seven number one singles and three top 10 albums. Tempah’s accolades include multiple Brit, MOBO, and Ivor Novello Awards.
Expanding Horizons in Business
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the music industry, prompting Tempah to diversify his career. He ventured into hosting and launched various business initiatives. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
- Co-founding Disturbing London in 2007.
- Establishing Imhotep, a creative agency, in 2015.
- Creating a contemporary menswear label, What We Wear, which debuted at London Fashion Week in 2017.
- Investing in several startups, including Drip Water and an electronics company called Nothing.
In 2025, Tempah founded Imhotep Records, solidifying his role as a music producer and mentor.
Dragons’ Den: A New Challenge
Tempah expressed excitement about joining Dragons’ Den. He sees it as an opportunity to support aspiring entrepreneurs and young founders. His background in music and diversified business portfolio positions him to provide valuable insights and mentorship. He aims to invest in companies focusing on innovative solutions in tech, especially those targeting younger audiences.
Current Projects and Future Aspirations
Despite his new role on Dragons’ Den, Tempah continues to work on his music. He has recently released a new single titled “Energy,” which celebrates UK nightlife and aims to encourage people to re-engage with social spaces following the pandemic.
Personal Life
Tinie Tempah, born on November 7, 1988, in Plumstead, London, is married to Eve De Haan, an artist. The couple tied the knot on July 4, 2019, and shares two children. Tempah’s background and experiences greatly influence his entrepreneurial spirit and drive to uplift others within his community.
With his blend of musical talent and business acumen, Tinie Tempah is set to make a significant impact as a guest on Dragons’ Den, where he aims to inspire and invest in the next generation of entrepreneurs.
