David Orobosa Omoregie. Better known as Dave. Also known as the best lyricist in the game. To kick off the ‘Balls x Bars’ series, I thought it would only be right to conduct a case study on the man who has implemented football lyrics into his catalogue of tracks more seamlessly than anyone out there.
Originally based in South London, Dave’s portfolio comprises of a plethora of awards, from his six platinum singles to the 2020 BRIT album of the year, his debut studio album, PSYCHODRAMA. Never afraid to talk upon his dark past, lifestyle changes or his ongoing mental health struggles, Dave has consistently portrayed the ability to resonate with his fanbase in a way which is almost unprecedented in the UK rap scene.
But throughout his discography, a theme which has remained resolute is football. A Manchester United fan at birth, the 23-year-old has dropped bars on managers, players and clubs alike, from MK Dons to José Mourinho.
Here are the best of the best:
“If you wanna be a big boy for your dogs my team take you from your Dons like Alli”
Dave – 100M’s
“My shooter thought ’bout touchin’ the city ’til I made that call like Sir Alex did”
Dave – Verdansk (extended)
“Girls wanna go on dates, take a man out like Ramos”
Dave – Paper Cuts
“Don’t worry what a hoe say (José) ’cause me and you both know you’re the special one / And if I can’t get a ring for your hand you can leave Chelsea and fly into Milan”
Dave – Tequila
But the football ties don’t just stop at his lyrics. In 2017-19, Dave was crowned the ‘King of United Football Twitter’, after a series of tweets surrounding his club, Manchester United. From Ole Gunnar Solskjaer slander, to relentless Marcus Rashford propaganda, to defending Paul Pogba at any given opportunity, Dave’s social media media presence not only tightened his ties with United fans across the globe, but allowed his fanbase to see him in a different, and surprising relatable, light.
If you’re not following @SantanDave1 on twitter you’re missing out:
