N-Dubz’s Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

As a long-time fan of N-Dubz, I’ve witnessed their journey from the streets of London to the heights of stardom. It’s been quite a rollercoaster ride, filled with highs and lows, but always brimming with energy, passion, and unapologetic authenticity.

As a member of the hit group N-Dubz, Fazer gained notoriety as one of the rough-edged figures in hip-hop, openly acknowledging that he and bandmate Dappy had once strayed from the right path.

Two decades after achieving fame, Richard Rawson, known as Fazer, has now embraced a family life, contentedly in love with Ashley Havelin and parents to four children together.

Over a dozen years back, the smitten pair crossed paths thanks to common acquaintances. Since then, they’ve added daughter Ava, aged 11, to their family, as well as twins Zariah and Zaviar who are currently 22 months old, and their youngest son, Zander, at just seven months.

Upon entering my home, it’s no surprise that the chaos of having one preteen and three toddlers is in full swing. However, the warm welcome I receive makes every whirlwind moment worthwhile.

37-year-old Fazer and Ashley, both friendly and courteous, manage to make raising four young children appear effortless as they share stories about their lives currently and the changes that have occurred since they first crossed paths approximately two decades ago, when Fazer was a member of one of hip-hop’s most prominent groups.

Instead of Fazer, it was their long-term effort that eventually led N-Dubz to gain popularity, as the group – comprising Dappy and his cousin Tulisa, among others – labored diligently for eight years prior to finding mainstream success.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

For Fazer, it was a simple trip to McDonalds when he released that the group had ‘made it’. 

Oh boy, let me tell you about the time our tune “I Swear” took over the airwaves! That jam was everywhere – every teenager’s ringtone, every playlist, if a song wasn’t “I Swear,” it simply wasn’t hip. We went viral in a way that made us the coolest cats on the block!

On one occasion, Dappy and I found ourselves at the McDonald’s near Marble Arch, and let me tell you, we were surrounded by a crowd that day. We weren’t expecting it, we were alone without any protection, just the two of us. A sudden rush of people made the situation quite chaotic. It was absolutely wild!

As Fazer’s popularity grew gradually without any sudden peaks, they didn’t pinpoint any specific instance as a standout moment.

He clarifies that our entire professional journey has been akin to watching highlights of a successful jump, as our progression has consistently moved upward. Each accomplishment we make seems to grow in magnitude, becoming larger and larger.

Instead of saying “everything is just like a monumental moment in our careers,” you could rephrase it as: Each achievement, such as winning our first MOBO without major label backing, leading our own tours, and then performing at arena shows, feels like a significant milestone in the journey of our career.

‘For us, it just keeps getting bigger and bigger and that’s a beautiful thing.’

The three of them had been acquainted since their childhood days; Dappy and Fazer were close friends at school, while Tulisa joined the group because she was Dappy’s cousin.

During a two-year relationship with Tulisa that ended in 2012, one might wonder if there were any tensions within the group since Fazer wasn’t related by family.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

‘They’re blood cousins, they’re like brother and sister, grew up in the same house.

As I stepped into the situation, I found myself serving as a bridge between the two parties involved. At times, their disagreements would escalate, at which point I’d intervene and say something like, “Hey, let’s take a moment to refocus, we have tasks ahead of us and now isn’t the best time for this.

20 minutes from now, everything would be fine. It felt as if they hadn’t argued at all, with their usual affectionate gestures such as hugging and kissing resuming.

As well as the occasional in-fighting, N-Dubz haven’t been without scandal. 

Over time, all three of them have encountered legal issues and found themselves embroiled in disputes with various musicians, including Lethal Bizzle.

Yet Fazer doesn’t live his life with any regrets. 

Reflecting on my past with the benefit of hindsight and wisdom, I often ponder when people inquire about regrets. Instead, I see those moments as integral to shaping us into who we are now.

If something were different in our past, I don’t believe we’d find ourselves where we currently are, or have become the individuals we are now. I wouldn’t want to alter anything about our journey.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

2011 marked a pause in N-Dubz’s career, when they had amassed four MOBO Awards and boasted three top 10 hits among their discography.

During that period, Tulisa expressed her anger towards Dappy by tweeting: “Dappy left N-Dubz, which is why we parted ways, and when he wanted to escape, I attempted to move him… into my property.

‘But he left n got a new num n I aint heard from him since, he aint called or made contact [sic].’ 

To be completely honest, even though they’re on good terms now, I, as a die-hard fan, can’t help but admit that there was a necessity for the three of them to take a break and spend some time apart at one point.

Reflecting on the journey that spanned a decade and a half, I marvel at how it all unfolded. We toiled diligently for ten long years, honing our craft, dreaming of that big break. Then, miraculously, it happened – we broke through to the mainstream, devoting the next four years to our shared passion. Fourteen years, side by side, day and night, living, breathing, and creating together. What a remarkable chapter in my life!

Instead of constantly being in the limelight, we yearned for a respite. We desired to experience everyday life, engage in ordinary activities, take vacations, and potentially start our own families… It eventually reached a point where even my mom would remark, “I need to turn on the TV just to see you.

We had mentioned earlier that we’d reunite the band eventually. At no point did we imply that it would be a final farewell.

As promised, the group regrouped in the year 2022, putting out a single titled “Charmer” and embarking on another tour once again.

During a post-tour reflection, Fazer shared that one of his most enjoyable experiences was witnessing the rich diversity among the audience members.

In a unique blend, you saw trappers dancing aggressively alongside goths, goths interacting with parents and parents engaging with children who were there with their own offspring. It was a stunning sight.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

During their sold-out tour, N-Dubz’s diehard followers were thrilled, but their reunion concert was marked by stories of backstage brawls among the group members and a cancellation because Dappy lost his voice.

Pondering on the instances of violence that often necessitated intervention by law enforcement during concerts, Fazer reflects: ‘With heightened adrenaline and the presence of alcohol…’

The enthusiasm level is palpable all around. Incidentally, I must admit that during our recent performance in Cardiff, the female audience members were more boisterous and energetic compared to the males.

‘They were absolutely insane. Carnage out there.’

At the conclusion of the tour, worries arose as it seemed unlikely for a continuation, following Dappy’s heated outburst asserting he hadn’t received payment for his part in the tour.

In a now-deleted Instagram post, he expressed anger towards his management team and accountants regarding a disagreement, saying he wanted to “severely reprimand” them by threatening to “remove their heads” and “scold” them physically. He also vented frustration by cursing the band N-Dubz, those who helped manage them, and declared that he would never compose another song or verse with N-Dubz again.

Yet Fazer insists that all is now fine and that Dappy is fully on board with the new tour. 

He clarifies the situation by saying: ‘After all the deductions are made from your account balance, that’s when you can truly understand your net income.’

At first, we weren’t aware of the situation, which led us to wonder, “Why hasn’t our payment come through yet?

The accountants were delaying the completion of the accounting tasks for the budgets, as well as the subsequent work.

As a lifestyle expert, let me share this situation: I found myself in a predicament where I expressed my concern about not receiving compensation yet. However, the issue has been promptly addressed and everyone involved has received their due payment. All is well now.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

During the N-Dubz reunion tour, Ashley was expecting a child. She shared her delight about being able to bring their oldest along to watch the band perform.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I can’t help but feel a sense of pride as they join me, because I wasn’t part of their previous tour – hence, I’ve never witnessed firsthand the incredible feats of my dad. It’s truly heartwarming to finally understand what he does up close and personal.

‘It was really eye opening for her and for the school friends she brought along with her.

Although Fazer shares glimpses of his family life on social media, he admits that he’s eager to reveal more about his daily routines through a reality TV series.

He chuckles, saying, “It would turn into quite a spectacle! I believe it would become incredibly popular on television due to its sheer craziness!

Ashley adds: ‘It’ll probably be a lot of beeps, a lot of screaming’, with 

As Fazer jokes: ‘I think we’d give the Osbournes a run for their money.’ 

Despite admitting that their family life is often hectic, the steadfastness of Fazer and Ashley’s affection for each other remains unwavering.

Despite the common assumption that rappers don’t usually settle down, Fazer is happier than ever within his family setup and with his partner.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

He says, “Since we’re quite close and have children together, it makes me feel like maintaining our family bond is very important.

‘You know, it’s bigger than just having an argument and saying “I’m going to leave”.

Personally, since my parents aren’t united, it’s important for me to ensure that my children grow up with that consistency, living in a family setup where they have both mom and dad under one roof.

‘It’s about giving my kids what I lost out on a little bit.’ 

Ashley and Fazer became acquainted through common companionship, and Fazer acknowledged that their initial conversation felt as if they had been friends for a long time.

Initially, Ashley declined his invitations, refusing to attend his birthday party and a trip to Paris. However, their paths crossed later on, and since then, the story between them has been moving forward.

According to Ashley, they don’t have a specific day marked as when their relationship began, so they don’t celebrate an anniversary either, as it seems he’s managed to dodge that tradition!

Yet the pair, who have been together for more than a decade, are stronger than ever. 

Regarding the topic of expanding their family, it becomes apparent that they aren’t completely aligned in their views.

Regarding the possibility of having a fifth child, I find myself pondering and hesitating, whereas Fazer jokingly chimes in with a swift retort, “Apparently, the answer was always a firm no!

Ashley shares her thoughts: “Since I had two infants last year and another one this year who is growing fast, it makes me feel like I might not get to have a tiny baby anymore.

It’s been quite challenging for me. Frankly, it’s been causing me a lot of distress as I feel like I’ve been dealing with numerous difficulties over the past few years, almost like caring for multiple newborns. However, I must admit, I’m unsure about it all.

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

In light of N-Dubz’s decision to resume touring, any prospective family plans they might have are likely to be postponed temporarily.

‘Next year we’ve got some amazing, massive announcements,’ Fazer teases. 

It seems to me that this will have a tremendous positive impact on us, and it will provide others with a clear understanding of our character and the efforts we’ve made to reach our current position.

In the meantime, N-Dubz have been enjoying spending time with their loved ones. 

Tulisa has also been in the public eye lately after appearing on I’m A Celebrity. 

From his cozy living room, he mentioned that they had been tuning in to watch Tulisa perform until her elimination, at which point he decided to stop following the show.

It didn’t hold my interest any longer since the band member I knew isn’t part of it anymore, so I don’t find it as appealing now.

He confessed that he was the one who cast the initial vote for her to face the challenging Bushtucker Trials. He added enthusiastically, “Absolutely, I did! If roles were reversed, she likely would have done the same for me!

N-Dubz's Fazer reveals how he turned his back on being a hip hop bad boy as he confirms new tour, opens up about wild family life and reveals what REALLY caused the band to split

Yet he couldn’t be prouder of her Jungle stint. 

Despite enjoying watching his bandmate thrive on the show, it’s not a path he’d pick for himself.  

He chuckles, saying he hails from London. As for the eight-legged creatures and other crawling critters, they definitely don’t appeal to him. He has no inclination towards consuming such peculiar items.

Watching as Melvin and Oti donned their helmets and released gigantic spiders into the enclosure made my skin crawl. I exclaimed, “Oh, no, no, no, no!” just thinking about it.

Among all possible shows, the one I’d choose is the one hosted by Bear Grylls. It seems more raw and grounded in reality.

My passion lies in the struggle between man and nature. I’m deeply fond of activities like fishing, camping, and starting fires. I also enjoy cooking, hunting, and all related pastimes.

For now though, Fazer is fully focused on the future of N-Dubz.  

He indicates that another tour is upcoming, saying: “For those who couldn’t attend before or didn’t manage to secure tickets, let’s hope this time around your chances will be better.

We pour a lot of enthusiasm into our live performances, ensuring that every tour surpasses the previous one in quality.

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2024-12-14 12:10

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