Rappers

Marley Marl Net Worth

Marlon Lu’Ree Williams (born September 30, 1962), most famously known as Marley Marl, is an American DJ, record producer, and rapper recognized as one of the most influential figures in hip hop history. Growing up in the Queensbridge Houses in Queens, New York, Marl’s early interest in electronica led him to experiment with samplers at Unique Recording Studios in the early 1980s, where he accidentally discovered sampling. Marley Marl began his career as a DJ and remixer, becoming Mr. Magic’s DJ and later co-founding the Juice Crew in 1983. He gained prominence for his innovative production techniques, including sampling drum breaks and manipulating them, which became a signature sound of early hip-hop. As the in-house producer for Cold Chillin’ Records, Marl collaborated with numerous hip hop talents, producing classic tracks for artists like Roxanne Shanté, MC Shan, Big Daddy Kane, and LL Cool J. His production work is characterized by a gritty, robust sound and an ear for catchy samples, helping to move street-level hip-hop into the mainstream. Marley Marl’s contributions to hip-hop extend beyond his own music, inspiring generations of producers and artists and solidifying his legacy as a visionary in hip-hop production.

Sparkle Net Worth

Sparkle, born Stephanie Edwards on May 13, 1975, is an American R&B singer with a net worth of $600 thousand. She began her musical journey singing with her family and in her church’s gospel choir. Her big break came when she was discovered by R. Kelly in 1989, leading to a signing with Kelly’s Rockland record label. In 1998, she released her self-titled debut album, which peaked at #2 on the Billboard 200, making her the only artist to have a hit record on Rockland, which soon went platinum. The biggest hit from the album was the duet with R. Kelly called ‘Be Careful’. Sparkle’s second album faced challenges due to creative differences with Kelly. She was later released from Rockland, and the album ‘Told You So’ was released with little success on Motown Records. In 2002, she was alerted to a sex tape which allegedly featured her 14 year old niece and R. Kelly. Sparkle later testified at R. Kelly’s criminal trial. In more recent times, she has provided background vocals for Toni Braxton’s Vegas show and was a commentator on the Lifetime docuseries ‘Surviving R. Kelly’ in January 2019.

Bryan ‘Birdman’ Williams Net Worth

Bryan ‘Birdman’ Williams, also known as Baby, is an American rapper, record executive, and entrepreneur. He co-founded Cash Money Records with his brother Ronald ‘Slim’ Williams in 1991. Cash Money Records has become one of the most successful hip-hop labels in history, representing artists like Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. Birdman also gained recognition as an artist, both as part of the duo Big Tymers with Mannie Fresh and as a solo artist. His influence extends beyond music, as he has ventured into fashion, spirits, and oil exploration, though not all ventures have been equally successful. Birdman’s contributions have significantly shaped the landscape of Southern hip-hop, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry and popular culture. He began restoring his birth name to Brooks from Williams in 2023.

Brotha Lynch Hung Net Worth

Kevin Mann (born January 10, 1969), most famously known as Brotha Lynch Hung, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer hailing from Sacramento, California. He began rapping at the age of 13. Brotha Lynch Hung’s lyrics are notorious for featuring highly explicit themes. He signed to Black Market Records in 1993 and released his debut EP, 24 Deep, followed by the album Season of da Siccness in 1995. Brotha Lynch Hung signed a contract with Strange Music in May 2009 and released three albums on the label, Dinner and a Movie (2010), Coathanga Strangla (2011), and Mannibalector (2013). He has been named one of the forefathers of the genre horrorcore.

James Charles Lewis III Net Worth

James Charles Lewis III (born October 31, 1990), most famously known as Lil’ JJ, is an American actor, stand-up comedian, musician, and dancer. He gained initial recognition after winning BET’s comedy talent search ‘Comin’ to the Stage’ in 2003. Subsequently, he became a cast member on Nickelodeon’s ‘All That’ in its 10th season, showcasing his comedic timing and versatility. Lil’ JJ further solidified his presence in television with his role as Jordan Lewis in the Nickelodeon series ‘Just Jordan’ (2007-2008). He broadened his acting portfolio with appearances in ‘The Secret Life of the American Teenager’ and ‘Men of a Certain Age’. Beyond television, Lil’ JJ has appeared in films such as ‘Beauty Shop,’ ‘Yours, Mine & Ours,’ and ‘Crossover’. He released an album titled ‘YoYo’ in 2009. His contributions to entertainment have earned him nominations for Image Awards, a Young Artist Award, and a BET Award, marking his impact in comedy and acting.

Eve Jihan Jeffers Cooper Net Worth

Eve Jihan Jeffers Cooper, most famously known as Eve, is an accomplished American rapper, songwriter, actress, and television personality. She rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, becoming a significant figure in the hip-hop scene as the ‘First Lady’ of the Ruff Ryders Entertainment label. Her debut album, ‘Let There Be Eve…Ruff Ryders’ First Lady,’ released in 1999, made her only the third woman to have a number one album in the United States. Eve won a Grammy Award in 2002 for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for ‘Let Me Blow Ya Mind’ with Gwen Stefani. Beyond music, Eve has successfully ventured into acting, starring in the ‘Barbershop’ film franchise and her own sitcom, ‘Eve’. She was also a co-host on the daytime talk show ‘The Talk’ from 2017 to 2020. Eve has endorsement deals with several top companies including Pepsi, Sprite, Tommy Hilfiger, and MAC Cosmetics. In September 2024, Eve sold her back catalog rights to Iconoclast for an estimated $25 to $50 million.

Tito Double P Net Worth

Jesús Roberto Laija García (born August 18, 1997), known professionally as Tito Double P, is a Mexican corrido singer and songwriter. He gained recognition by posting videos of himself singing corridos on social media in 2021, which caught the attention of his cousin, Peso Pluma. In 2023, he started his solo career and released his debut single “Dembow Bélico”, with Luis R. Conriquez and Joel de la P. He also appeared on two songs from Peso Pluma’s third studio album Génesis (2023). In February 2024, Laija entered the US Billboard Hot 100 with “La People II”. On August 22, 2024, he released his debut studio album Incómodo (2024), which debuted at number 20 on the US Billboard 200.

DJ Drama Net Worth

DJ Drama, born Tyree Cinque Simmons on April 22, 1978, is an American DJ, record executive, and music producer. Hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he gained prominence as the DJ for Atlanta-based rapper T.I. and through his influential mixtape series, Gangsta Grillz. These mixtapes feature a wide array of popular hip-hop artists, solidifying his role as a key figure in the mixtape scene. DJ Drama co-founded Aphilliates Music Group in 2003 and later, Generation Now in 2013, a record label that has signed notable artists such as Lil Uzi Vert and Jack Harlow. His contributions to hip-hop have earned him awards, including a Grammy for Best Rap Album in 2022 for his work with Tyler, The Creator. Beyond his musical endeavors, DJ Drama has also made appearances in film and television, showcasing his versatile talents and solidifying his legacy in the entertainment industry. He continues to evolve in the music industry and nurture the next generation of artists.

Rittz Net Worth

Jonathan Matthew McCollum (born August 16, 1980), most famously known as Rittz, is an American rapper celebrated for his rapid-fire rapping style and clever lyrics. Born in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, Rittz’s journey into music started early, influenced by his parents’ love for rock and roll. He later moved to Gwinnett County, Georgia, where his career began to take shape. Rittz gained significant recognition after signing with Tech N9ne’s Strange Music label. His debut album, ‘The Life and Times of Jonny Valiant,’ released in 2013, charted impressively, marking a turning point in his career. He further solidified his position in the hip-hop scene with albums like ‘Next to Nothing’ and ‘Top of the Line.’ In 2019, Rittz founded his own record label, CNT Entertainment, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and desire for greater creative control. Rittz’s music often reflects personal struggles, including his battle with addiction, adding depth and authenticity to his work.

Steve Rifkind Net Worth

Steve Rifkind is an American music entrepreneur renowned for his significant impact on the hip-hop industry. Born on March 2, 1962, he is the founder and chairman of Loud Records and SRC Records. Rifkind played a crucial role in launching the careers of numerous iconic artists, including Wu-Tang Clan, Mobb Deep, Akon, David Banner, and Big Pun. He is known for his innovative marketing strategies, particularly the ‘Street Team’ concept, which revolutionized music promotion by leveraging word-of-mouth and urban culture insights. Beyond his work with artists, Rifkind has also spearheaded marketing campaigns for major companies like T-Mobile and Adidas. His contributions have solidified his legacy as a visionary in music entrepreneurship. He also served as Vice President at Universal/Motown Records. Rifkind’s influence extends to philanthropic activities, including co-founding Camp Excel for underprivileged children with learning disabilities and supporting breast cancer charities.

Special Ed Net Worth

Edward K. Archer (born May 16, 1972), known professionally as Special Ed, is an American rapper and producer who rose to prominence during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He is best known for his hit singles “I Got It Made”, “Think About It” and “I’m The Magnificent” from his debut album *Youngest in Charge*, which was released in 1989 when he was 17 years old. Born in Brooklyn, New York City, Special Ed’s career has spanned over 30 years, and he is considered one of the pioneers of East Coast hip hop. Beyond his solo work, Special Ed was a member of the Crooklyn Dodgers and has contributed to the music of other major artists. He has also appeared in film and television, including *The Cosby Show*. Jay-Z paid homage to Special Ed in his song Empire State of Mind, and Rick Ross remixed I’m The Magnificent.

Austin Mahone Net Worth

Austin Harris Mahone (born April 4, 1996) is an American singer and songwriter. Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, he gained initial recognition performing covers of pop songs on YouTube. Mahone began posting videos on YouTube in June 2010, building an online following by January 2011. He was discovered by record producers and signed with Chase/Republic Records in 2012. His 2012 debut single, ‘Say Somethin’’ and its follow-up, ‘Say You’re Just a Friend’ (featuring Flo Rida) both received gold certifications by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). In September 2013, he signed a triple joint venture with Birdman’s Cash Money Records. His 2014 single, ‘Mmm Yeah’ (featuring Pitbull) received platinum certification by the RIAA and became his highest charting song on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 49. After releasing ‘Dirty Work’ in 2015, he parted ways with the labels. Mahone has released several EPs and mixtapes, including ‘This Is Not the Album’ (2015) and ‘ForMe+You’ (2016), and his debut album, ‘Dirty Work – The Album’ (2017), was released exclusively in Japan.

Big Gipp Net Worth

Cameron F. Gipp (born April 28, 1973), most famously known as Big Gipp, is an American rapper. He is a member of the Atlanta-based hip hop group Goodie Mob. He is known for his contributions to Southern hip hop, Gipp rose to prominence in the 1990s as part of the Dungeon Family collective. Gipp debuted on the song “Git Up, Git Out” from Outkast’s debut album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik in 1994. Goodie Mob’s debut album, Soul Food, released in 1995, received critical acclaim and cemented their status as pioneers of Southern hip-hop. Beyond his work with Goodie Mob, Big Gipp has pursued various solo ventures and collaborations, further expanding his artistic horizons. He has released solo albums and mixtapes. Throughout his career, Gipp has amassed accolades, including Grammy nominations and collaborations with industry heavyweights.

Tamara Johnson-George Net Worth

Tamara Antrice Johnson-George, known professionally as Taj, is an American singer, rapper, actress, and author. She was born on April 29, 1971, in Brooklyn, New York. Taj is best known as one-third of the R&B singing group Sisters with Voices (SWV), which rose to fame in the early 1990s with hits like ‘Weak’ and ‘Right Here.’ Beyond her music career, Johnson-George has also appeared on television, including as a contestant on ‘Survivor: Tocantins’ in 2009, where she finished in fourth place. She is married to former NFL star Eddie George since 2004. Johnson-George earned a degree in Business Administration from Belmont University. She has also written a book titled ‘Player hateHER: How to Avoid the Beat Down and Live in a Drama-Free World.’ SWV reunited, and she appeared in the WE tv reality series ‘SWV Reunited’ (2014), which documented the group’s journey back together. Tamara has navigated a diverse and successful career spanning multiple entertainment realms over three decades.

Daeg Faerch Net Worth

Daeg Neergaard Faerch, born on September 27, 1995, is an American actor, singer, songwriter, and rapper. He is known for his portrayal of young Michael Myers in Rob Zombie’s 2007 horror remake, Halloween, and for his role in the 2008 film Hancock. Faerch has also participated in theatrical productions such as Grapes of Wrath, Marat/Sade, and Waiting for Godot, and Shakespeare Unabridged. In addition to acting, Daeg speaks French and performs rap music under the name GreatDaeg, releasing albums like ‘Stunt from the 6’ and ‘Vlad’. He has also appeared in TV shows like ‘Pushing Daisies’ and ‘American Horror Story.’ Daeg began scriptwriting at eight years old and did his own stunts in both Halloween and Hancock. He was named best minor character in Miami Herald’s 2008 Movie Yearbook for his role in Hancock.

Daz Dillinger Net Worth

Delmar Drew Arnaud (born May 25, 1973), most famously known as Daz Dillinger, is an American rapper and record producer. He is renowned for his pivotal role in shaping West Coast hip hop during the 1990s. Daz began his career with Death Row Records, where he honed his production skills under the mentorship of Dr. Dre. He gained prominence as one half of the hip-hop duo Tha Dogg Pound, alongside Kurupt. Daz’s production credits include significant contributions to classic albums like Snoop Dogg’s ‘Doggystyle’ and 2Pac’s ‘All Eyez on Me.’ He has also released several solo albums and founded his own record label, D.P.G. Recordz. Beyond his music career, Daz has also appeared in films and video games. He remains an influential figure in the West Coast hip hop scene.

Russell “Block” Spencer Net Worth

Russell “Block” Spencer is an American hip hop executive with a net worth of $5 million. He began his career in the recording industry in the mid-1990s and became President of Suave House Records by 1997. In 1999, he co-owned ShoNuff Records, discovering artists like Ciara and Jody Breeze. In 2000, he launched Block Entertainment, discovering Yung Joc and Boys in Da Hood. Block Entertainment has had joint venture deals with Bad Boy Records and Capitol Records and has signed artists such as Fat Joe, Gorilla Zoe, and Lil Xan. Spencer was also previously in a relationship with Kandi Burruss.

Kareem Burke Net Worth

Kareem “Biggs” Burke (born January 19, 1974) is an American entrepreneur, record executive, and producer. He is best known as the co-founder of Roc-A-Fella Records along with Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter and Damon “Dame” Dash in 1995. Roc-A-Fella Records quickly became one of the most influential record labels in the music industry, launching the careers of artists like Jay-Z, Kanye West and Rihanna. Burke played a key role in the success of Roc-A-Fella Records, overseeing the day-to-day operations of the label. In 2006, he co-founded the clothing brand Rocawear with Jay-Z and Damon Dash. After Rocawear, Kareem Biggs went on to pursue other business ventures including Circle of Success management company, which represents a diverse range of artists and the cannabis company Viola. In mid-2012, Burke was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute over 100 kilos of marijuana but was released from prison in late 2015. In 2024, Kareem “Biggs” Burke’s net worth is estimated to be $1.5 million.

Jeon Jungkook Net Worth

Jeon Jung-kook, most famously known as Jungkook, is a highly celebrated South Korean singer, songwriter, dancer, producer, and composer. Born on September 1, 1997, in Busan, South Korea, he is best known as a member of the globally successful K-pop group BTS. At the young age of 13, Jungkook received casting offers from seven different entertainment companies, ultimately choosing Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE Corporation) because of his admiration for RM, who later became his bandmate and the leader of BTS. He debuted with BTS in 2013 and has since gained worldwide recognition. Often referred to as the ‘Golden Maknae,’ Jungkook holds significant positions within BTS, including main vocalist, center, lead dancer, and sub rapper. He is known for his exceptional talents and contributions to BTS’s music, co-producing songs like ‘Love is Not Over’ and ‘Magic Shop’. In addition to his group activities, Jungkook has also achieved success as a solo artist, collaborating with artists like Charlie Puth. In 2023, he was named a global ambassador for Calvin Klein. He is considered one of the biggest global superstars of all time, and he continues to break records as a solo artist.

Beastie Boys Net Worth

The Beastie Boys were an American hip hop group formed in New York City in 1979. The group was composed of Michael “Mike D” Diamond, Adam “MCA” Yauch, and Adam “Ad-Rock” Horovitz. Formed from members of the experimental hardcore punk band the Young Aborigines in 1979, the group transitioned to hip hop after achieving local success with the 1983 comedy hip hop single “Cooky Puss”. They toured with Madonna in 1985 and a year later released their debut album, Licensed to Ill (1986), the first rap album to top the Billboard 200 chart. The Beastie Boys have sold over 40 million records worldwide. The group won three Grammy Awards. In April 2012, the Beastie Boys were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Less than a month later, Yauch died from cancer. Diamond later confirmed that the band had dissolved after Yauch’s death.

ASAP Ferg Net Worth

Darold Durard Brown Ferguson Jr. (born October 20, 1988), most famously known as ASAP Ferg, is an American rapper hailing from Harlem, New York City. He rose to prominence as a key member of the hip-hop collective ASAP Mob, adopting his stage name from the group. In January 2013, Ferg secured a solo record deal with Polo Grounds and RCA Records, mirroring the labels that launched ASAP Worldwide. Before his music career, Ferg channeled his creativity into fashion, drawing inspiration from his father, who ran a Harlem boutique and designed for prominent record labels. Ferg launched clothing and jewelry lines at a young age, attending art school and launching Devoni Clothing in 2005, designing high-end belts that were worn by celebrities. In 2012, Ferg launched his streetwear label Trap Lord which grew as his music star rose to prominence. His debut album *Trap Lord* was released the following year.

Pleasure P Net Worth

Marcus Ramone Cooper Sr., most famously known as Pleasure P, is an American R&B singer-songwriter. He first rose to prominence as a member of the R&B group Pretty Ricky, which he formed with his brothers in 1997. He began his solo career in 2007. Pleasure P’s debut album, “The Introduction of Marcus Cooper,” released in 2009, garnered him three Grammy Award nominations. His early contributions to Pretty Ricky’s success and his subsequent solo efforts have led to a reported net worth of $2 million. He has also been involved in various business ventures, including product endorsements and brand collaborations, leveraging his fame to increase his earning potential. Pleasure P remains active in the music industry and is planning future projects and collaborations. His enduring presence and contributions have left a lasting impact on R&B music and popular culture.

Louie Rankin Net Worth

Louie Rankin, born Leonard Ford, was a Jamaican dancehall reggae artist and actor. He was also known as ‘Original Don Dada’. His most successful song was ‘Typewriter,’ released in 1992. As an actor, Rankin starred in the movie ‘Belly’ in 1998, ‘Shottas’ in 2002, and ‘We Run These Streets’ in 2014. In 2015, he starred in ‘Rainbow City’. He was known for playing Jamaican ‘gangsta’ roles in movies. Louie Rankin died on September 30, 2019, in a car crash in Canada. At the time of his death, he was living in Hanover, Ontario, Canada.

Jaime Meline Net Worth

Jaime Meline (born March 2, 1975), most famously known as El-P, is an American rapper, record producer, songwriter, and entrepreneur. He’s a major figure in alternative hip hop, gaining prominence in the mid-1990s. El-P began his career with Company Flow and later founded the Definitive Jux record label. El-P experienced mainstream success in 2013 when he formed the hip hop duo Run the Jewels with fellow rapper Killer Mike. El-P’s innovative production style is marked by futuristic soundscapes and complex beats. His lyrics often delve into sci-fi themes and address social and political issues, reflecting his self-proclaimed enthusiasm for science fiction. He has also contributed to film scores, showcasing his versatility as a composer.

Petey Pablo Net Worth

Moses Barrett III (born July 22, 1973), most famously known as Petey Pablo, is an American rapper and record producer hailing from Greenville, North Carolina. He rose to prominence in the early to mid-2000s, particularly known for his crunk single ‘Freek-a-Leek’ released in 2003, which achieved platinum status and peaked at number seven on the Billboard Hot 100. Before this success, he signed with Jive Records and released his 2001 single ‘Raise Up,’ a tribute to his hometown, Greenville. His debut album, ‘Diary of a Sinner: 1st Entry,’ earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album. After a break, Pablo founded his own independent label, Carolina Music Group. Outside of music, he has also appeared in films and TV shows, including ‘Drumline’ and ‘Empire’, showcasing his versatility as an entertainer.

Juicy J Net Worth

Jordan Michael Houston III (born April 5, 1975), most famously known as Juicy J, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer. He hails from Memphis, Tennessee, and rose to prominence as a founding member of the influential Southern hip-hop group Three 6 Mafia in 1991. Juicy J played a vital role, alongside DJ Paul, in bringing Southern hip-hop to the forefront of the music industry. In 2011, he expanded his influence by co-founding and co-directing Wiz Khalifa’s label, Taylor Gang Entertainment. Juicy J’s career includes both group success and solo ventures. Three 6 Mafia achieved mainstream recognition and even won an Academy Award for Best Original Song for “It’s Hard out Here for a Pimp.” As a solo artist, Juicy J has released multiple albums, including ‘Stay Trippy,’ and is known for hit singles like “Bandz a Make Her Dance.” His impact extends to production, with credits on tracks for numerous prominent artists. He remains a significant figure in the hip-hop landscape.

Stromae Net Worth

Paul Van Haver (born March 12, 1985), known professionally as Stromae, is a Belgian singer, rapper, songwriter, and music producer. He gained widespread recognition in 2009 with his hit song “Alors on danse.” Stromae’s music blends hip-hop and electronic music styles, often incorporating elements of Belgian New Beat and Congolese rumba. His lyrics frequently address social and political issues with a blend of humor and melancholy. Stromae was born in Brussels to a Rwandan father and a Belgian mother and raised in the city’s Laken district. He began his music career as a rapper under the name Opsmaestro before adopting the stage name Stromae (a play on the word “Maestro”). His second album, “Racine carrée,” released in 2013, was a major commercial success, featuring hit singles like “Papaoutai” and “Formidable.” Stromae has won numerous awards and is considered one of the most popular Belgian artists worldwide. He is praised for his unique style and his ability to blend diverse musical influences.

Raphael Saadiq Net Worth

Raphael Saadiq, born Charles Ray Wiggins on May 14, 1966, is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer. He rose to prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s as the lead vocalist and bassist for the R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, known for hits like “Little Walter.” Later, he joined the supergroup Lucy Pearl and the music production collective the Ummah. Saadiq launched a successful solo career, releasing critically acclaimed albums such as “Instant Vintage,” “Ray Ray,” “The Way I See It,” and “Stone Rollin’.” As a producer, he has crafted hit songs for numerous major artists, including TLC, Joss Stone, D’Angelo, Mary J. Blige, Solange Knowles and John Legend, winning a Grammy for his work on D’Angelo’s “Untitled (How Does It Feel).” His contributions extend to Beyoncé’s album “Cowboy Carter,” where he earned another Grammy. Saadiq’s music blends traditional soul with contemporary elements, influencing a new generation of musicians. He co-founded the video game developer IllFonic and continues to be a respected and innovative figure in the music industry.

NBA YoungBoy Net Worth

Kentrell DeSean Gaulden (born October 20, 1999), known professionally as YoungBoy Never Broke Again (NBA YoungBoy), is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he began writing lyrics while in juvenile detention for robbery. He rose to prominence between 2015 and 2017 with six independent mixtapes. In 2017, he signed with Atlantic Records and gained further recognition with singles like “Untouchable” and “No Smoke.” His music often blends hip-hop and trap, with lyrics addressing violence, street life, and drug use. Despite his success, YoungBoy’s career has been marked by legal issues, including arrests for drug, firearm, and fraud-related charges. He released his debut studio album “Until Death Call My Name” in 2018. His single “Bandit” with Juice WRLD reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2019, his mixtape “AI YoungBoy 2” debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200. He has eight biological children with different women and one adopted son.

Jay Electronica Net Worth

Elpadaro F. Electronica Allah (born September 19, 1976), most famously known as Jay Electronica, is an American rapper and record producer. He was born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana. He garnered significant attention with the release of his mixtape, Act I: Eternal Sunshine (The Pledge), in 2007. The success of this mixtape, along with his single “Exhibit C,” led to a multi-label bidding war, which ultimately resulted in Jay-Z signing Electronica to his Roc Nation label in 2010. Electronica spent his early years in the Magnolia Projects of New Orleans. By the age of 19, he departed New Orleans to pursue a music career, living a nomadic lifestyle in cities like Baltimore, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Denver, and Detroit. In Detroit, he collaborated with producer/engineer Mike “Chav” Chavarria, who introduced him to J. Dilla and Mr. Porter. His debut studio album, A Written Testimony, was released in 2020 to critical acclaim. Jay Electronica is also known for his affiliation with the Nation of Islam and the Five Percent Nation. He has a daughter with singer Erykah Badu.