Red Rat

Known for his mischievous charm as an ambitious dancehall DJ, Red Rat has drawn listeners of all ages to his semi-comical lyrics, spoiled-brat vocal style, and trademark cries of "Oh no!" The St. Ann's Bay, Jamaica, native was raised in a household filled with music: his father had played guitar for Byron Lee & the Dragonnaires, his older brother had worked as a bassist for Diana King, and his second-oldest brother drummed in KRU. Born Wallace Wilson, he resolved at an early age to follow the same path.

A brother helped secure his first studio credit when Red Rat contributed guest DJ work to KRU's "Can't Live Without You" in 1995, while he was still attending high school. Rather than rush forward, he finished his studies before turning his full attention to a music career. Appearances at Teen Splash '96 and Sting soon gave him wide exposure and won over both audiences. By the close of 1997 he had scored three Jamaican radio hits and issued his debut album, Oh No...It's Red Rat. The record was praised for its distinctive energy and humor, although only a handful of tracks struck a serious note; one of them, "Rumors," addressed reports that he had been killed by gunshots. His second album, I'm a Big Kid Now, appeared in 2000.