Rapper Dot Rotten has died aged 37.

 

The musician – born Joseph Ellis – was best known for his 2012 hit “Overload” and had worked with Ed Sheeran, Cher Lloyd and Chip and D Double E.

 

The circumstances around Ellis’s death are yet to be disclosed publicly. His family confirmed the news to the BBC, but are yet to share details.

 

The music star has been credited as a pioneering talent within the UK Grime scene. He began his rap career as Young Dot, releasing a 2007 mixed tape that was nominated for the BBC Sound of 2012 prize.

 

He was nominated among the likes of Frank Ocean, Azealia Banks and Michael Kiwanuka – who ultimately took home the award.

 

Ellis teamed up with TMS for his single “Overload”, which made it into the Top 20 singles chart in 2012.

 

During his career, he made guest appearances on Ed Sheeran’s 2011 track “Goodbye to You” as well as Cher Lloyd’s “Dub on the Track” and Children In Need charity single “Teardrop” that same year. He joined forces with Gary Barlow to create the latter, making it to number 24 on the UK Singles Chart.

 

The last music to be released by Ellis was his 2020 self-released mixtape, 808s and Gunshots.

 

Music manager Bouncer Play Dirty paid tribute to the rap star on Instagram, writing: “Thoughts go out to his family. RIP to the brother.”

 

British rapper Sway wrote: “Very sad news. Sleep well Dot.”