British rapper Central Cee has confirmed he has converted to Islam and revealed a new name, sharing the news directly with fans during a livestream.
The 27-year-old, born Oakley Neil Caesar-Su, spoke openly during a broadcast hosted by PlaqueBoyMax. He said, “I just changed my name and took my shahada. I am a Muslim now,” adding that he has changed his first name from Oakley to Akil or Aqeel. The Shahada, the Islamic declaration of faith, marks formal entry into Islam.
The announcement was understated. Friends present on the livestream offered quiet congratulations, and Central Cee did not provide a detailed explanation of his decision. The rapper framed it as a personal milestone rather than a public statement. His announcement has since been welcomed online by Muslim community members, many of whom praised the discreet way in which he shared it.
Speculation about Central Cee’s religious beliefs had circulated for some time. In 2023, he posted Arabic text on Instagram, translating to “I seek refuge in Allah from the accursed devil,” prompting fans to question whether he had embraced Islam privately.
Some earlier lyrics had also hinted at the shift. In his 2025 track “Booga,” he raps: “Lord, forgive us as I’m a sinner, repent and pray, you accept our sunnah,” nodding to Islamic practice while reflecting on his upbringing in west London.
Central Cee was raised in Shepherd’s Bush with his mother and two younger brothers following his parents’ separation when he was seven. His heritage includes an English mother and a father of Guyanese and Chinese descent. He first appeared on a now-deleted episode of Fire in the Streets in 2014 and gained wider recognition in 2020 with the track ‘Day in the Life’.
By 2021, he had established himself as a defining figure in UK rap, blending drill foundations with melodic hooks and storytelling. Hits such as ‘Sprinter’, ‘Doja’ and ‘BAND4BAND’ made him the first UK rapper to surpass one billion global streams.
He has collaborated with international artists including Drake, J. Cole, 21 Savage and Ice Spice, and was reported in 2024 as the most-streamed UK rapper worldwide.
Outside of music, Central Cee has discussed the pressures of fame and constant touring. He has acknowledged ongoing anxiety about his family’s safety and the toll of a relentless schedule. Despite this, he has spoken strategically about managing his career and preparing for the eventual transition away from the spotlight.
Islam is one of the world’s fastest-growing religions, with over two billion adherents globally. Around six per cent of the UK population identifies as Muslim. Within hip-hop culture, Islam has a long history of influence, with artists such as DJ Khaled, Ice Cube, Akon, SZA and Dua Lipa openly referencing their faith.
