Ramone Rochester (born 18 February 1997), known professionally as Ramz, is a British rapper and singer and songwriter from London.[2] He is best known for his hit single "Barking",[3] which peaked at number two on the UK Singles Chart in January 2018.[4]
Early life
Rochester was born 18 February 1997 in Mitcham, South London. He attended St Mark's Academy, where he was excluded several times in secondary school, and then attended Harris Academy Merton sixth form.[5] Rochester eventually went to study Sports Development at the University of Portsmouth before dropping out the same year to focus on music.[6] He is also an avid supporter of Arsenal F.C.[7]
Career
Rochester released his first song "I'm On My Grind" in February 2017 to little notice.[8] He further released several other tracks in March 2017[9] and July 2017.[10] Whilst releasing music, Rochester was attempting to find employment after leaving university, eventually finding a job working at supermarket chain Sainsbury's.[6]
In September 2017, Rochester formally released "Barking" alongside a music video.[11] The song entered the UK Singles Chart on 14 December 2017 at number 41, before peaking at number two on 19 January 2018.[4]
In July 2019 Ramz received help after posting the word "suicide" on Instagram.[12]
Personal life
Ramz was in an on-again off-again relationship with London-based R&B musician Mnelia, which began in 2016 when the pair met at Portsmouth University. Their son (whose name and face they conceal), was born in 2020. The couple separated indefinitely late 2021.[citation needed]