The well-known landmarks of Chicago include rich musical history. It has given birth to many well-known musicians, rappers, singers, and bands. Chicago’s contribution to rap music has been just as vital and influential as it has been for other genres of music from the city. Like any other group of musicians, there are different styles from the diverse cultures in Chicago’s neighborhoods. These groups pioneered a new and unique sound that inspired artists worldwide.
This post will provide 25 famous Chicago rappers well-known for their music. By looking at the list of famous Chicago rappers, you will see which ones have contributed most to the city’s musical history. These rappers are not limited to just the past few years, and it is also not restricted to just the city of Chicago.
1. Kanye West
| Kanye West | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kanye West |
| Born | June 8, 1977 |
| Other Names | Ye, Yeezus, Saint Pablo, Yeezy, Louis Vuitton Don |
| Education | Chicago State University (no degree) |
| Occupations | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Fashion Designer |
| Years Active | 1996–present |
| Organizations | Donda, Yeezy (formerly) |
| Spouse | Kim Kardashian |
| Children | 4 |
| Parent | Donda West (mother) |
| Relatives | Devo Harris (cousin), Tony Williams (cousin) |
| Origin | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, Progressive rap, Pop, Art pop, Gospel |
| Labels | GOOD, Def Jam, Roc-A-Fella |
| Member of | Sunday Service Choir |
| Formerly of | Child Rebel Soldier, Kids See Ghosts, The Throne |
| Kanye West’s Voice | West during an interview with Tucker Carlson, recorded in October 2022 |
| Musical Artist | West during an interview with Tucker Carlson, recorded in October 2022 |
Ye (born Kanye Omari West) was born in 1977, commonly known as Kanye West. He is an American rapper, record producer, and fashion designer. He is also the founder and owner of the record company GOOD Music. Kanye West is also a record producer who has produced numerous singles for famous music artists. He started his career in music production in the mid-90s and then formed the hip-hop group, Go-Getters with Chicago rappers GLC and Timmy G. He went solo in 2002 with his debut album “The College Dropout”. Being heavily influenced by the Chicago drill rap style, he expressed a darker vision than most of his Chicago-based rap peers.
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2. Juice WRLD
| Juice WRLD | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Juice WRLD |
| Birthdate | December 2, 1998 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | JuiceTheKidd |
| Education | Homewood-Flossmoor High School |
| Occupation | Rapper, singer, songwriter |
| Partner | Alexia Smith, Ally Lotti |
| Relatives | Young Dolph (second cousin) |
| Genres | Hip hop, emo rap, trap, SoundCloud rap, alternative rock, pop rap |
| Years Active | 2015-2019 |
| Labels | Grade A, Interscope, Polydor |
| Notable Achievements | Leading figure in emo rap and SoundCloud rap genres |
| Influences | Inspired by rock and pop music artists such as Billy Idol, Blink-182, Black Sabbath, and more |
| Musical Style | Blend of hip hop, emo, and trap elements |
| Legacy | One of the most streamed artists with multiple chart-topping hits |
Jarad Anthony Higgins was born in 1998 – died in 2019; known professionally as Juice WRLD, he is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from the Calumet Park neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois. He is best known for his breakout hit “Lucid Dreams”. Malphurs started producing music in late 2014, when he was 17 years old, using FL Studio. During this time, he released songs on YouTube and SoundCloud under Lil Wizzy.
3. Polo G
| Polo G | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Polo G |
| Birth Name | Taurus Tremani Bartlett |
| Also Known As | Polo Capalot, Lil Capalot, Polo GWolo G, The Goat |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1999 |
| Birthplace | Old Town, Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Education | Wendell Phillips Academy High School |
| Genres | Hip hop, trap, drill, conscious hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record executive |
| Years Active | 2017–present |
| Labels | Columbia, ODA |
| Children | 1 |
| Albums | Die a Legend, The Goat, Hall of Fame |
| Notable Hits | “Pop Out” (featuring Lil Tjay), “Rapstar”, “Flex” (featuring Juice Wrld) |
| Influences | Lil Wayne, Tupac Shakur, Gucci Mane, Lil Durk, G Herbo |
| Record Label | Only Dreamers Achieve (ODA) |
| Accolades | Certified platinum album (Die a Legend), Featured in Forbes 30 Under 30 |
| Legal Issues | Arrested in 2021 for battery, threatening a public servant |
| Personal Struggles | Hospitalized in 2019 due to a near-fatal drug overdose, Quit Ecstasy and Xanax following hospitalization |
Taurus Tremani Bartlett was born in 1999, known professionally as Polo G. He is an American rapper. With his hits “Finer Things” and “Pop Out,” he became well-known (featuring Lil Tjay). His 2019 debut album, Die a Legend, was certified Platinum by the RIAA and reached number six on the US Billboard 200.
4. Lil Durk
| Lil Durk | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lil Durk |
| Birthdate | October 19, 1992 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | The Voice, Durkio, Smurk, Smurkio |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap, gangsta rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2009–present |
| Labels | Only the Family, Alamo, Geffen, Interscope, Def Jam, Coke Boys |
| Member of | Only the Family |
| Record Deal | Signed to Def Jam Recordings |
| Cult Following | Gained popularity with the Signed to the Streets mixtape series |
| Billboard Hot 100 | Charted with the single “Viral Moment” |
| Commercial Resurgence | Successful singles: “3 Headed Goat,” “Backdoor,” “The Voice” |
| Collaborations | Featured on Drake’s “Laugh Now Cry Later,” Pooh Shiesty’s “Back in Blood” |
| Billboard 200 Success | Hit albums: The Voice, The Voice of the Heroes, 7220 |
| Early Life | Overcame challenges in Chicago, with a troubled upbringing |
| Legal Troubles | Previously faced legal issues and served time |
| Debut Mixtape | Released “Life Ain’t No Joke” |
| Debut Studio Album | Released “Remember My Name” |
| Collaborative Projects | Notable collaborations with DY, Tee Grizzley, and others |
| Signed to Alamo/Interscope | Joined Alamo Records and Interscope Records |
| Notable Albums | Love Songs 4 the Streets 2, Just Cause Y’all Waited 2 |
| Collaborations with Drake and Kanye West | Featured on Drake’s “Laugh Now Cry Later” and Kanye West’s “Jonah” |
| Certified Lover Boy | Featured on Drake’s sixth studio album |
| Tribute Album | Released “The Voice” as a tribute to late friend King Von |
Durk Derrick Banks was born in 1992, known professionally as Lil Durk. He is an American rapper and singer. He founded and contributed primarily to the group and record label Only The Family (OTF). He is affiliated with the Young Chop movement alongside artist Famous Dex and Tink. His debut album Signed To The Streets (2015) had success, peaking at #62 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.
5. Chance The Rapper
| Chance The Rapper | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chance The Rapper |
| Birthdate | April 16, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | Chance |
| Education | Jones College Prep High School |
| Occupations | Rapper, singer-songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| Organization | SocialWorks |
| Spouse | Kirsten Corley (m. 2019) |
| Children | 2 |
| Relatives | Taylor Bennett (brother) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards (Best Rap Album for “Coloring Book”) |
| Genres | Hip hop, alternative hip hop, R&B |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Formerly of | Savemoney, The Social Experiment |
| Debut Mixtape | “10 Day” |
| Breakthrough Mixtape | “Acid Rap” |
| Notable Albums | “Coloring Book,” “The Big Day” |
| Collaborations | Worked with Kanye West on “The Life of Pablo” and featured on other albums |
| Social Activism | Active involvement in social activism in the Chicago area |
| Early Influences | Inspired by Michael Jackson and influenced by Kanye West |
| Notable Performances | Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo Music Festival, Saturday Night Live |
| Film and TV Projects | Appeared in the short film “Mr. Happy” and commercials |
Chancellor Johnathan Bennett was born in 1993. He is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He started to get known in 2013 when His initial two mixtapes were made public. His third mixtape, “Coloring Book,” in 2016, became an instant success and earned Bennett three Grammy’s out of seven nominations.
Looking to explore more young rappers like Chance The Rapper? Check out Hood MWR’s list of the top 21 famous young rappers making waves in the industry. From Lil Tjay to Rod Wave, find your new favorite artist and discover what sets them apart from the rest in this exciting list.
6. Chief Keef
| Chief Keef | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chief Keef |
| Also Known As | Sosa |
| Birthdate | August 15, 1995 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap, mumble rap, punk rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 2008–present |
| Labels | E1, RBC/BMG, FilmOn Music, Fontana, Glo Gang, 1017 Brick Squad, Interscope |
| Member of | Glory Boyz |
| Children | 9 |
| Notable Achievements | Popularized the Chicago rap subgenre drill through singles like “I Don’t Like” and “Love Sosa” |
| Legal Issues | Faced ongoing legal issues including weapons possession charges and house arrest sentences |
Keith Cozart was born in 1995, commonly known as Chief Keef. He is an American rapper, record producer, and music video director. He gained notoriety with the aid of fellow Chicago-based rappers such as Lil Durk, Lil Reese, and Fredo Santana. His debut album Finally Rich (2012) peaked at #5 on Billboard 200 album chart and included “I Don’t Like,” which was certified Platinum by the RIAA.
7. G Herbo
| G Herbo | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | G Herbo |
| Birth Name | Herbert Randall Wright III |
| Also known as | Lil Herb, Swervo |
| Born | October 8, 1995 (age 27) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| Labels | Machine Entertainment Group, Epic Records, Republic Records, Cinematic |
| Notable Mixtapes | – Welcome to Fazoland (2014) |
| Notable Albums | – Humble Beast (2017) |
| Notable Songs | – “Kill Shit” |
| Collaborations | – Lil Bibby |
| Achievements | – Debut album “Humble Beast” reached top ten on the Billboard 200 |
| Personal Life | – Engaged to Taina Williams |
Herbert Randall Wright III was born in 1995, better known by his stage name G Herbo (formerly Lil Herb). He is an American rapper from Chicago. G Herbo is signed to Machine Entertainment Group. He has released the mixtapes Welcome to Fazoland, Pistol P Project, Ballin Like I’m Kobe, and Strictly 4 My Fans.
8. King Von
| King Von | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Dayvon Daquan Bennett |
| Birthdate | August 9, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | Grandson, V-Roy |
| Labels | Only the Family, Empire |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap, gangsta rap |
| Years Active | 2018–2020 |
| Notable Singles | “Crazy Story,” “Took Her to the O” |
| Notable Album | Welcome to O’Block (2020) |
| Criminal Involvement | Implicated in homicides and alleged crimes related to Chicago gangs |
| Family Background | Raised by mother, had inconsistent relationship with father |
| Education | Earned GED while in juvenile detention; attended college |
| Relationship | Previously in an on-and-off relationship with rapper Asian Doll |
| Children | Father of three |
| Death | Died on November 6, 2020, at age 26 in a shooting incident |
| Posthumous Releases | Tribute album “The Voice”; posthumous albums “What It Means to Be King” and “Grandson the Album” |
| Controversial Documentary | Allegations of involvement in murders and gang-related crimes |
| Grammy Recognition | Included in the In Memoriam montage during the 64th Annual Grammy Awards |
| Burial | Resting place in Chicago, Illinois |
Dayvon Daquan Bennett was born in 1994 – died in 2020; known professionally as King Von, he was an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. He was signed to Lil Durk’s record label Only the Family and Empire Distribution. He was one of the youngest rappers signed to a major label at the time of his passing.
If you’re a fan of King Von’s music, you might be interested in our article on celebrities with royal backgrounds. Although King Von wasn’t technically royalty, this article explores the fascinating lineages of many other famous individuals who have blue blood running through their veins.
9. Lupe Fiasco
| Lupe Fiasco | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lupe Fiasco |
| Birth Name | Wasalu Muhammad Jaco |
| Also Known As | Double J |
| Born | February 16, 1982 (age 41) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, Entrepreneur |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Labels | 1st & 15th, The Orchard, Thirty Tigers (current), Atlantic (former) |
| Member of | Japanese Cartoon |
| Formerly of | All City Chess Club, Child Rebel Soldier |
| Debut Album | Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor |
| Major Hits | “Kick, Push,” “Superstar,” “The Show Goes On” |
| Awards | Grammy Award, BET Hip Hop Award |
| Business Ventures | 1st and 15th Entertainment, Righteous Kung-Fu, Trilly & Truly |
| Humanitarian Efforts | Summit on the Summit, Benefit single for Haiti earthquake victims |
| Notable Views | Anti-establishment, expressed in interviews and music |
Wasalu Muhammad Jaco was born in 1982, better known by his stage name Lupe Fiasco. He is an American rapper, singer, record producer, and entrepreneur. His first record helped him gain popularity in Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor (2006). His latest album, Tetsuo and Youth (2018), peaked at number two on the US Billboard 200.
10. Twista
| Twista | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Carl Terrell Mitchell |
| Birth Name | Carl Terrell Mitchell |
| Also known as | Tung Twista |
| Birthdate | November 27, 1973 (age 49) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, chopper |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 1989–present |
| Labels | Get Money Gang, Capitol, EMI, Big Beat, Atlantic, Loud, Zoo, BMG |
| Notable Achievement | Former Guinness World Record holder for fastest English-speaking rapper |
| Breakthrough Album | Kamikaze (2004) |
| Billboard Hot 100 Hits | “Slow Jamz” (with Kanye West and Jamie Foxx) |
| Collaborations | Ruff Ryders: Ryde or Die Vol. 2, Lady Gaga’s Artpop |
| Community Involvement | Partnered with Chicago Food Bank’s Producemobile program for hunger relief |
| Documentary Film | Mr. Immortality: The Life and Times of Twista (2010) |
| Recent Project | Mixtape: Summer 96 (2019) |
| Television Appearance | Judge on Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow (2019) |
| Family | Previously married, has a daughter |
Carl Terrell Mitchell was born in 1973, better known by his stage name Twista (formerly Tung Twista). American rapper and music producer Illinois’s Chicago is where. He is primarily renowned for his chopper-style rapping and once being the fastest rapper in the world English-speaking rapper, according to Guinness World Records in 1992, being able to pronounce 598 syllables in 55 seconds. He is a founding member of the group Playaz Circle. His debut album Adrenaline Rush (1996) included the hit single “Overnight Celebrity” and his later albums In Close (1998), Kamikaze (2000), and The Day After (2003).
Known for his signature rapid-fire flow, Twista was once crowned the fastest rapper in the world by Guinness World Records. He’s considered to be one of the best rappers of the 2000s era. Check out this list of the best rappers of the 2000s to see who else made the cut during this prolific period in hip-hop history.
11. Common
| Common | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Common |
| Birthdate | March 13, 1972 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Other Names | Common Sense, Lonnie Rashid Lynn |
| Alma Mater | Florida A&M University |
| Occupations | Rapper, Actor, Activist |
| Years Active | 1991–present |
| Partner | Erykah Badu (2000–2002) |
| Children | 1 |
| Parents | Mahalia Ann Hines (mother), Lonnie Lynn (father) |
| Awards | Grammy Awards, Academy Award, Primetime Emmy Award, Golden Globe Award |
| Musical Genres | Hip hop, neo soul, progressive rap |
| Instruments | Vocals |
| Labels | Loma Vista, Concord, Think Common, ARTium, Def Jam, Virgin EMI, Warner Bros., Geffen, GOOD, MCA, Warlock, Rawkus, Relativity |
| Member of | August Greene, Cocaine 80s, Soulquarians |
| Film Career | Smokin’ Aces, Street Kings, American Gangster, Wanted, Date Night, Just Wright, Happy Feet Two, Run All Night, John Wick: Chapter 2, Smallfoot |
| Television Career | Hell on Wheels, Between Riverside and Crazy |
Common, born Lonnie Rashid Lynn Jr. in 1972, is an American rapper and actor. Album one, Can I Borrow a Dollar from Common, was released in 1992. and continued a significant underground following into the late 1990s, gaining notable mainstream success through his work with the Soulquarians. His first major-label album, Like Water for Chocolate (2000), received commercial success and acclaim, particularly for its singles “The Light” and “Go”.
12. Earl Sweatshirt
| Earl Sweatshirt | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thebe Neruda Kgositsile (Earl Sweatshirt) |
| Birthdate | February 24, 1994 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Occupations | Rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer |
| Years Active | 2008–2010, 2012–present |
| Genres | Hip hop, abstract hip hop, experimental hip hop, alternative hip hop, horrorcore (early) |
| Labels | Tan Cressida, Warner, Columbia (former) |
| Member of | Odd Future |
| Parents | Keorapetse Kgositsile (father), Cheryl Harris (mother) |
| Notable Works | Debut mixtape “Earl,” studio albums “Doris,” “I Don’t Like Shit, I Don’t Go Outside,” “Some Rap Songs,” and “Sick!” |
| Recognition | Critically acclaimed projects, known for unique rhyme schemes and gritty underground production |
| Additional | Gained recognition at a young age, sent to boarding school in Samoa, returned to music after hiatus, independent label Tan Cressida, introspective and thought-provoking lyrics. |
Earl Stevens was born in 1994, better known by his stage name Earl Sweatshirt. He is an American rapper. He is from Los Angeles and gained recognition from a series of mixtapes released in 2010. His debut album, “Doris”, was released in 2013 to widespread critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album.
If you’re a fan of Earl Sweatshirt, you might also find it interesting to learn about famous people with INTP personality type. INTPs are known for their analytical and innovative minds, just like Earl Sweatshirt’s lyricism. Discover if your favorite celebrity shares the same personality type as you or your favorite rapper.
13. Mick Jenkins
| Mick Jenkins | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mick Jenkins |
| Birth Name | Jayson Mick Jenkins |
| Birthdate | April 16, 1991 (age 32) |
| Birthplace | Huntsville, Alabama, U.S. |
| Origin | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter, record producer |
| Labels | Cinematic |
| Debut Album | The Healing Component (2016) |
| Notable Albums | Pieces of a Man (2018), Elephant In the Room (2021) |
| Notable Singles | “Martyrs,” “Spread Love,” “Drowning,” “Understood,” “Padded Locks,” “Truffles,” “Scottie Pippen” |
| Collaborators | Chance The Rapper, Vic Mensa, Saba, Ghostface Killah, JID, Jean Deaux, Kaytranada, STWO |
| Latest Album Release | Elephant In the Room (2021) |
| Upcoming Album | The Patience |
| Musical Style | Lyrical, introspective, socially conscious |
| Tours | Smoker’s Club World Wide Roller’s Tour, World Domination Tour |
Mick Jenkins was born in 1991, known professionally as Mick Jenkins. He is a rapper and songwriter. His debut studio album, The Water(2015), received universal acclaim, and his work has earned him recognition as a rising hip hop star.
14. Calboy
| Calboy | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Calvin Lashon Woods |
| Also Known As | 147Calboy |
| Born | April 3, 1999 (age 24) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Origin | Calumet City, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2014-present |
| Labels | Polo Grounds, RCA |
| Breakthrough Mixtapes | Anxiety and Calboy, the Wild Boy |
| Viral Song | “Envy Me” |
| Debut EP | Wildboy |
| Billboard Success | Peaked at number 31 on Billboard Hot 100 |
| Influences | Tupac Shakur, Michael Jackson, Chance the Rapper, |
| Rap Moniker Origin | Combination of Calvin and Cowboy from The Warriors |
Calvin Lashon Woods was born in 1999, professionally known as Calboy. He is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He is signed to Paper Gang Inc. and did a partnership with Polo Grounds Music and RCA Records. In 2017, Calvin had a breakthrough locally with his releases through Paper Gang Inc. “ANXIETY” & “Calboy the Wild Boy”. In 2018, he became prominent after releasing his viral song “Envy Me”, later serving as the lead single from his debut EP, Wildboy, released in 2019.
15. Noname
| Noname | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Noname |
| Birthdate | September 18, 1991 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, jazz rap, neo soul |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, poet, record producer, activist |
| Years Active | 2010–present |
| Book Club | Founder of Noname Book Club, promoting radical texts by authors of color |
| Ghetto Sage | Member of the musical supergroup Ghetto Sage with Smino and Saba |
| Debut Mixtape | “Telefone” released on July 31, 2016, to critical acclaim |
| Debut Album | “Room 25” released on September 14, 2018, received further critical acclaim |
| Background | Raised in the Bronzeville neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois |
| Artistic Beginnings | Started rapping and performing slam poetry in 2010 |
| Collaborations | Worked with Chance the Rapper, Mick Jenkins, Kirk Knight, and Ramaj Eroc |
| Stage Name | Formerly known as “Noname Gypsy” and later changed to “Noname” |
| Activism | Advocates for social issues and addresses violence against black women and racial inequality |
| Book Club Initiative | Founded Noname Book Club, supporting literature by authors of color and local bookstores |
| Hiatus and Return | Took a break from music but planning to release the third studio album, “Sundial” |
Fatimah Nyeema Warner was born in 1991, known professionally as Noname (pronounced “no name”). She is an American rapper, poet, and record producer in Chicago. Noname has been running a book club since 2019, focusing on controversial works by authors of color. Together with fellow rappers Smino and Saba, she makes up one-third of the musical band Ghetto Sage. Her debut project, titled Telefone, was released in 2016, followed by Room 25 (2018).
If you’re looking for a talented Chicago rapper who stands out from the crowd, you should definitely check out Noname. She’s known for her poetic lyrics and unique sound, which blends elements of jazz, soul, and hip hop. Discover more about Noname’s music and style in our article on the 50 Most Favorite Cartoon Characters of the 90s.
16. Joey Purp
| Joey Purp | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joey Purp |
| Stage Name | Joey Purp |
| Birthdate | August 3, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Associated Acts | Leather Corduroys, Savemoney |
| Education | Whitney Young High School |
Joseph Davis was born in 1993, better known by his stage name Joey Purp. He is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. He is one half of Leather Corduroys. He is one of the founding members of Savemoney. He is a founding member of the Chicago collective SaveMoney. His debut studio album, “Quarterthing”, will be released in 2019.
17. Lucki
| Lucki | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lucki |
| Birth Name | Lucki Camel Jr. |
| Also known as | TuneLuc, Lucki Eck$, Bossy Simpson, Deadboy, Neptune, Tuneski, 90$even |
| Born | May 30, 1996 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, trap, cloud rap |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, record producer |
| Years active | 2013–present |
| Labels | Empire |
| Debut Project | Released debut project “Alternative Trap” in 2013 |
| Record Label | Signed with Empire |
| Billboard Success | Second studio album “Flawless Like Me” debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200 |
| Influential Figure | Hailed as one of the most influential figures in underground hip-hop |
| Early Inspirations | Erykah Badu, Prince, The Notorious B.I.G. |
| Current Inspirations | Chief Keef, Future, Babyface Ray |
| Education | Dropped out of high school at 16 to pursue music full-time |
| Notable Collaborations | Collaborated with FKA Twigs and Chance the Rapper on respective songs |
| Notable Projects | – “Body High” (August 2014) – “X” (May 2015) – “Freewave 3” (February 2019) – “Almost There” EP (May 2020) – “Flawless Like Me” (September 2022) |
| Recent Releases | – “Super Urus” (February 18, 2022) – “Y NOT?” (June 14, 2022) – “Coincidence” (August 19, 2022) – “Leave Her” (April 27, 2023) |
| Notable Features | Featured on Trippie Redd’s album “Mansion Musik” |
Lucki Camel Jr. was born in 1996, known professionally as Lucki (stylized in all caps). He is an American rapper and record producer from Chicago, Illinois. He came to public attention in 2013 after receiving recognition for his debut project, Alternative Trap. Since then, Lucki has worked with prominent music figures, releasing songs with Chance the Rapper, FKA Twigs, Danny Brown, Earl Sweatshirt, and Lil Yachty. He has now signed with the record label Empire.
18. Da Brat
| Da Brat | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Da Brat |
| Birthdate | April 14, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Education | Kenwood Academy |
| Occupations | Rapper, Actress |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
| Spouse | Jesseca Dupart (married in 2022) |
| Children | 1 |
| Relatives | LisaRaye McCoy (half-sister) |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Labels | So So Def |
| Platinum Certification | First-ever female solo rap act to receive a platinum certification |
| Billboard Success | Two top-ten songs on the Billboard Hot 100: “Funkdafied” and “Not Tonight” |
| Collaborations | Notable collaborations with Mariah Carey, including the remix of “Loverboy” and “Always Be My Baby” |
| Grammy Award Nominations | Two Grammy Award nominations |
| Pregnancy | Expecting her first child |
| Legal Issues | Previously convicted of misdemeanor reckless conduct and aggravated assault charges |
| Awards | Recipient of Grammy Awards, Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards, BET Awards, and Billboard Awards |
Shawntae Harris-Dupart was born in 1974, better known by her stage name Da Brat. She is an American rapper. Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, she began her career in 1992, the year she signed with So So Def Records. Her debut album Funkdafied (1994) sold one million copies, making her the first female solo rap act to receive a platinum certification and the second overall female rap act (solo or group) after Salt-N-Pepa. She is best known for her 1996 debut album Funkdafied, which produced the Billboard Hot 100 top 10 singles “Funkdafied” and “Shawty Get Loose”.
If you aspire to have a unique personal style like Da Brat, check out this article on celebrities who looked gorgeous with bangs. Embracing a fringe can instantly add a touch of drama and edginess to your look, just like Da Brat’s signature short haircut. Explore the different types of bangs and styles to find your perfect match.
19. Montana of 300
| Montana of 300 | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Walter Anthony “Tony” Bradford |
| Stage Name | Montana of 300 |
| Birthdate | March 3, 1989 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Genres | Hip hop, trap, R&B, drill |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, singer, songwriter |
| Debut Studio Album | Fire in the Church (May 20, 2016) |
| Album Release Tradition | Releasing an album every year on May 20 |
Walter Anthony “Tony” Bradford was born in 1989, better known by his stage name Montana of 300 (or simply Montana). He is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter from Chicago, Illinois. His debut studio album, Fire in the Church, was released in 2016. He is best known for his rap style, incorporating trap, R&B, and drill beats, while making remixes to hit songs that, like his originals, often include religious subtext.
20. Taylor Bennett
| Taylor Bennett | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Taylor Bennett |
| Date of Birth | [Date of Birth] |
| Age | [Age] |
| Nationality | [Nationality] |
| Occupation | [Occupation] |
| Genre | [Genre] |
| Label | [Label] |
| Years Active | [Years Active] |
| Notable Works | [Notable Works] |
| Collaborations | [Collaborations] |
| Awards | [Awards] |
| Early Life | [Early Life] |
| Discography | [Discography] |
| Tours | [Tours] |
| Philanthropy | [Philanthropy] |
| Personal Life | [Personal Life] |
Taylor Bennett was born in 1985 and is a former college football quarterback and Georgia House of Representatives member. He started as a student at Georgia Tech before transferring to Louisiana Tech. At Georgia Tech, he focused on international affairs. In the fall of 2008, he later enrolled at Louisiana Tech as a graduate student with a major in Information Systems Security. John Marshall Law School in Atlanta is where Taylor also earned a law degree.
21. Fredo Santana
| Fredo Santana | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Derrick Antonio Coleman (Fredo Santana) |
| Birthdate | July 4, 1990 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, trap |
| Occupation | Rapper |
| Years Active | 2011–2018 |
| Labels | RBC, Savage Squad, Glory Boyz |
| Debut Studio Album | Trappin Ain’t Dead (2013) |
| Highest Album Ranking | Reached number 45 on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart |
| Second Studio Album | Fredo Krueger 2 (2017) |
| Mixtapes | It’s a Scary Site (2012), Fredo Kruger (2013), It’s a Scary Site 2 (2013) |
| Notable Appearance | Cameo appearance in Drake’s music video for “Hold On, We’re Going Home” |
| Relationship | Older cousin of rapper Chief Keef |
| Drug Use and Health | Struggled with drug addiction (Xanax and lean); diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy; experienced seizures and hospitalizations due to drug use |
| Cause of Death | Fatal seizure resulting in cardiovascular disease; pronounced dead on January 19, 2018 |
Derrick Coleman was born in 1990 – died in 2018; known professionally as Fredo Santana, he was an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. The older cousin of Chicago rapper Chief Keef, Santana, began recording music in 2011, releasing a series of mixtapes throughout 2012 and 2013. His debut studio album, Trappin Ain’t Dead, was released in 2013 via Savage Squad and peaked at number 45 on the US Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums
22. Lil Reese
| Lil Reese | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lil Reese |
| Also Known As | Reese Money, Grim Reaper |
| Birthdate | January 6, 1993 (age 30) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, songwriter |
| Years Active | 2010–present |
| Labels | Glory Boyz, RBC, Def Jam |
| Collaborations | Chief Keef, Fredo Santana, Lil Durk |
| Notable Song | Featured on Chief Keef’s “I Don’t Like” |
| Notable Mixtapes | “Don’t Like”, “Supa Savage” and more |
| Notable EPs | “Supa Vultures” EP with Lil Durk and others |
| Record Deal | Signed with hip hop label Def Jam |
| Legal Troubles | Previously pleaded guilty to burglary charges and received probation |
| Controversial Tweet | Posted a controversial tweet during COVID-19 pandemic, facing backlash |
| Shooting Incident | Survived a shooting incident where he was critically wounded and recovered |
| Recent Shooting | Injured in a shootout at a parking garage in Chicago, currently in fair condition |
Tavares Lamont Taylor was born in 1993, known professionally as Lil Reese. He is an American rapper from Chicago, Illinois. His debut mixtape, ‘Don’t Like’, was released later that year. Since the first mixtape release, Taylor has gone on to release six mixtapes in total, including the 2013 ‘Supa Savage’ mixtape, as well as three EPs, including the 2017 collaborative project ‘Supa Vultures’ EP with Lil Durk.
23. Rockie Fresh
| Rockie Fresh | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Donald Howard Pullen |
| Stage Name | Rockie Fresh |
| Birthdate | April 16, 1991 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop |
| Occupation | Rapper, singer, songwriter |
| Record Labels | Maybach Music Group, Atlantic Records |
| Collaborations | Patrick Stump, Joel & Benji Madden |
| Notable Mixtapes | Rockie’s Modern Life, The Otherside, Electric Highway, The Birthday Tape, Fresh Veggies |
| Significant Projects | Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group, Rostrum Records |
| Endorsement Deal | PUMA |
Donald Howard Pullen was born in 1991, known professionally as Rockie Fresh, and is an American rapper. He was signed to Rick Ross’ Maybach Music Group and Atlantic Records. Pullen is known for his alternatively influenced hip-hop style and his associations with recording artists Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy and Joel & Benji Madden of Good Charlotte.
24. Open Mike Eagle
| Open Mike Eagle | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Open Mike Eagle |
| Birth Name | Michael W. Eagle II |
| Also known as | Mike Eagle |
| Birthdate | November 14, 1980 (age 42) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Current Location | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
| Education | Graduated from Southern Illinois University Carbondale |
| Musical Career | Released solo albums: “Unapologetic Art Rap” (2010), “Rappers Will Die of Natural Causes” (2011), “4nml Hsptl” (2012), “Dark Comedy” (2014) |
| Other Ventures | Co-hosts the podcast “Tights and Fights” |
| Television Appearances | Voiced a character in the animated series “Adventure Time” |
| Personal Life | Met ex-wife Tiffany at a TransAfrica conference at UCLA |
| Influences | They Might Be Giants |
| Musical Style | Coined the term “art rap” |
Michael W. Eagle II was born in 1980, known primarily by his stage name Open American hip hop performer and comedian Mike Eagle. He belongs to the hip-hop group Project Blowed and resides in Los Angeles, California. He is originally from Chicago, Illinois. Additionally, he has participated in Thirsty Fish, Swim Team, and Cavanaugh.
25. Lil Zay Osama
| Lil Zay Osama | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lil Zay Osama |
| Birth Name | Isaiah Jaylaun Dukes |
| Birthdate | June 3, 1997 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Genres | Hip hop, drill, R&B |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper |
| Years Active | 2011–present |
| Labels | Warner |
| Musical Style | “Pain music” reflecting violent upbringing and exploring themes of grief, trauma, and survival |
| Upbringing | Raised on the South Side of Chicago |
| Gang Association | Joined a gang at the age of 12 |
| Legal Troubles | Shot and arrested on gun charges, served time in juvenile detention |
| Record Label Signing | Signed with Warner Records in August 2019 |
| Notable Releases | “Changed Up” – First hit with millions of views on YouTube |
| Mixtapes Released | Trench Baby (February 19, 2021), Trench Baby 2 (November 12, 2021) |
| Collaborations | EST Gee, Mook6340, Benny The Butcher, Luh Kel, Sean Kingston |
Isaiah Dukes, born in 1997 and raised in Chicago, Illinois., known professionally as Lil Zay Osama, is an American rapper. His music, which he describes as “pain music”, reflects his violent upbringing on the South Side of Chicago and explores subjects including grief, trauma, and survival.