The 28-year-old from Northampton, whose real name is Tyron Frampton, appeared before Oxfordshire magistrates court via video link. He is charged with oral and vaginal penetration of a woman without her consent.
Frampton spoke only to confirm his real name, his date of birth, and to confirm an address in his native Northampton. The Guardian reports he was released on bail ahead of a scheduled appearance at a crown court, dealing with more serious offences, next month.
Adam Yar Khan, the prosecution lawyer, said that the charge of rape was an indictable-only offence, telling magistrates that the case must be heard at crown court.
The polarising rapper and singer has topped the UK charts and received nominations for accolades including a Grammy award and the Mercury prize.
He was nominated for best dance recording at the 2021 Grammys, after his second album, Tyron, registered him his first UK number one album.
It followed Nothing Great About Britain, which saw him nominated for the Mercury award in 2019.
Slowthai’s third album, UGLY, arrived earlier this year.
UPDATE: Slowthai has commneted on the case, sharing a statement on social media. He says he “categorically denies the charges” and is “confident [his] name will be cleared”.
The full statement can be found below.
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