Biography
Who is Taio Cruz?
Early life and education
Taio Cruz was born as Adetayo Ayowale Onile-Ere on April 23, 1980, in the London Borough of Brent, United Kingdom. He grew up in the Kensal Rise area of London. His father was a Nigerian Yoruba lawyer, and his mother operated a hairdressing business.
For his education, Taio attended fee-paying independent schools. He went to Bilton Grange preparatory school in Warwickshire and Battle Abbey School in East Sussex before returning to London to study at Stanmore College.
How Taio became famous
Taio started his career in music as a songwriter within RedZone Entertainment, a writing collective led by American producer Tricky Stewart. In 2005, he gained recognition after winning a Brit Award for co-writing the single Your Game for Will Young. He also founded Rockstar Music London, which later became known as R.E.D Inc.
In 2006, Taio released his debut single, I Just Wanna Know, which reached number twenty-nine on the UK singles chart. This release led to recording deals with Republic Records and the UK branch of Island Records. His debut studio album, Departure, followed in 2008 and earned a gold certification from the British Phonographic Industry.
Career highlights and hits
Taio shifted toward an electronic dance music and pop style for his second studio album, Rokstarr, released in 2009. The lead single, Break Your Heart, reached number one on the UK singles chart and the US Billboard Hot 100. Another major single from the album, Dynamite, peaked at number two on the US chart and reached the top position in the United Kingdom.
His subsequent work included the album TY.O, released in 2011, which featured collaborations with artists like Flo Rida and Pitbull. Taio also contributed music to film soundtracks, including the track Telling the World for the animated film Rio, and co-wrote songs for other performers such as Jennifer Lopez and David Guetta.
Birthday and age
Taio Cruz was born on April 23, 1980, which makes Taio 46 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Taio shares the date with 39 other famous people.
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