🎧 Craig David: Navigating Fame, Family, and 25 Years of Music

In this episode, Clara’s travel companion is the legendary and multi-talented Craig David. The Singer, DJ, Songwriter & Producer has had an incredible career and journey from Southampton's Holyrood Estate to becoming an early pioneer of the UK garage scene and crossing the pond to his infamous Miami penthouse.Craig shares some surreal highlights throughout his career from hearing his album playing in a remote rainforest shop in Costa Rica to seeing Stevie Wonder singing along to “Walking Away” at a concert he was performing at. Whilst living in Miami, he was renowned for transforming the party scene with his iconic TS5 house parties, but he always remembers his routes and remains grateful to his mum and family, who he said sacrificed so he didn’t go without, including picking him up at 2am from his DJ gigs when he first started out and introducing him to Ibiza!As he gears up for his 25th-anniversary tour, he opens up about his deep connection to home, "25" his lucky number and also the number of his childhood home, and what inspired him to make that life-changing decision to return to the UK.Warning: This episode may inspire nostalgia, a love for UK garage, and an irresistible urge to revisit Craig’s iconic hits.Discover The Best Places to Visit in The UK by Train with LNERChapter Markers:01:20 - Southampton Beginnings. Craig reminisces about growing up in the Holyrood Estate, discovering music, and finding his passion in the local community.05:40 - Early Influences and Family Sacrifices. The support of Craig’s family, especially his mother, played a pivotal role in his journey. Hear about their adventures and the lessons they shared.12:20 - Becoming a Star at 16. Craig reflects on the whirlwind success of Born to Do It, the challenges of fame, and his first major travels.20:00 - Meeting Legends. From performing for Stevie Wonder to discovering Michael Jackson loved his music, Craig shares jaw-dropping encounters with cultural icons.30:20 - A Miami Escape. Why Craig moved to Miami, the life lessons he learned there, and why he ultimately decided to return home to the UK.39:20 - The Viral Comeback. Craig’s legendary freestyle on 1Xtra and how it reignited his career, leading to collaborations with Big Narstie and the No. 1 album Follow My Intuition.42:20 - Commitment Tour & SOS. Learn about Craig’s upcoming arena tour, the 25th anniversary celebration of Born to Do It, and the heartfelt story behind his new single, “SOS.”47:20 - Final Reflections. Craig shares wisdom on embracing success, staying grounded, and the joy of reconnecting with his roots.