Rory Charles Graham, the English singer celebrated for his deep baritone voice and soul-stirring performances, is more commonly known by his stage name – Rag’n’Bone Man. While his musical talents are well-established, the origin of his unique moniker remains a point of curiosity for fans. In this article, we delve into the intriguing backstory of why he is called Rag ‘N’ Bone Man.
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Early Musical Foundations:
Born on January 29, 1985, in Uckfield, East Sussex, Rory Charles Graham embarked on his musical journey at a young age. At just 15, he found himself drawn to the world of music, initially as part of a drum and bass crew where he honed his skills as an MC. This early exposure to the music scene set the stage for his later success as a soulful vocalist.

The Birth of Rag ‘N’ Bone Man:
The genesis of the moniker “Rag ‘N’ Bone Man” traces back to Graham’s formative years, where he operated under the pseudonym “Rag ‘N’ Bonez.” The inspiration for this unique name can be attributed to the singer’s fondness for a piece of British television history – the 1970s sitcom “Steptoe and Son.”
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“Steptoe and Son,” a sitcom centered around a father-and-son rag-and-bone business, left an indelible mark on Graham. The term “rag-and-bone” refers to individuals who collect unwanted household items to resell or repurpose. The resilience and resourcefulness of the characters in the show resonated with Graham, and he adopted the moniker as a homage to this source of inspiration.
The Symbolism:
Choosing the name “Rag ‘N’ Bone Man” holds a symbolic significance for the artist. It reflects his appreciation for the art of repurposing and the transformative power of music. Much like the characters in “Steptoe and Son” who found value in discarded items, Rag ‘N’ Bone Man sees the potential for beauty and meaning in the discarded fragments of life – a sentiment echoed in his soulful and evocative music.
In unraveling the story behind the name “Rag ‘N’ Bone Man,” we discover a thoughtful nod to the past and a testament to the artist’s artistic philosophy. The moniker, inspired by a classic British sitcom, encapsulates the essence of Rory Charles Graham’s journey – a musical odyssey marked by resilience, resourcefulness, and a profound appreciation for the transformative power of creativity. As fans continue to be moved by Rag ‘N’ Bone Man’s deep baritone voice, they can also appreciate the depth and symbolism embedded in the name that has become synonymous with musical excellence.


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