Truth Be Known is the performing name of Michael Esgate, a lyricist and UK hip hop artist from Crewe in the North West of England. Michael was born in Crewe in 1987 and first starting writing lyrics and storytelling through his music in 2005. In late 2005 Michael met Jason "JayJay" Estridge - an established musician and producer with a recording studio in the local area. JayJay immediately recognised the potential of the young, unpolished artist and Michael and JayJay worked closely together for over 2 years developing Michael's distinctive musical style and flow. Michael received local acclaim for his music - performing live to raise money for Children In Need, receiving airplay on local radio (Radio Stoke) and performing in local schools and other venues. Michael also enjoyed a regular spot at a local hip hop night in Stoke-on-Trent. In early 2008, Michael and JayJay's music came to the attention of a representative of Big Music - a young, dynamic independent record label with offices in the local area. A meet was set up to discuss the music Michael and JayJay had created. Within weeks Michael had signed a recording contract and JayJay had been offered a senior position at the label. Almost straight away work started on the first release - an E.P. called 'The Birds & The Booze EP' containing 4 original tracks and 2 remixes. The E.P. was released in July, Michael has started recording his first album.