Adetayo Ayowale Onile-Ere, known professionally as Taio Cruz, emerged from the London Borough of Brent to become a fixture in global pop music. Born in 1980, the British composer, rapper, and record producer shifted from early songwriting roles into a high-charting career that bridged the sound of R&B with electronic dance music across international markets.
Early Development and Songwriting
Raised in Kensal Rise, Cruz attended Bilton Grange preparatory school and Stanmore College. His professional entry into music occurred through Tricky Stewart’s RedZone Entertainment writing collective. His early impact was solidified in 2005 when he received a Brit Award for co-writing the Will Young single 'Your Game.' In 2006, he founded Rockstar Music London and released his debut single, 'I Just Wanna Know,' which entered the UK singles charts at number 29.
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Following a deal with Republic Records and Island Records, Cruz released his debut album, Departure, in March 2008. The record reached number 17 on the UK charts and featured several singles, including 'Moving On,' 'Come On Girl,' and 'I Can Be.' The album eventually achieved gold certification from the British Phonographic Industry. During this period, his work appeared on the Sugababes album Catfights & Spotlights via a remix of his track 'She's Like a Star'.
Global Commercial Success
His second album, Rokstarr, marked a transition to an EDM-pop style. Released in 2009, it included the international hit 'Break Your Heart,' which set a record for the largest leap to number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The album also produced 'Dynamite,' which reached number two in the United States and topped the UK charts. Cruz subsequently received three Billboard Awards for 'Dynamite' in 2011 and saw success with 'Dirty Picture' and 'Higher.'
Collaborative Work and Later Releases
Cruz expanded his reach by contributing to soundtracks, notably recording 'Telling the World' for the 2011 film Rio. His third studio album, TY.O, was released in 2011 and featured tracks such as 'Hangover' and 'There She Goes.' Beyond his solo projects, he acted as a songwriter for other artists, including Jennifer Lopez on 'I'm Into You,' David Guetta on 'Without You,' and Cody Simpson on 'Wish U Were Here.'
Fast facts
- Born: 1980
- Birthplace: London Borough of Brent
- Education: Bilton Grange; Stanmore College
- Primary Occupations: Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Rapper
- Major Album: Departure (2008)
- Major Album: Rokstarr (2009)
- Major Album: TY.O (2011)
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
Questions readers ask
What was the highest-charting US single for Taio Cruz?
The single 'Break Your Heart' reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
Did Taio Cruz write music for other artists?
Yes, he co-wrote songs for artists including Tinchy Stryder, Jennifer Lopez, David Guetta, Cody Simpson, and Olly Murs.
Achievements
- Instruments: voice
- Genres: contemporary R&B, pop music and hip-hop
