A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Athel Bastard Mayers on October 3, 1988, in Harlem, New York City, is a prominent American rapper, singer, and actor. His unique style, blending hip-hop with psychedelic influences, has made him a significant figure in the music industry. Known for his distinct flow, catchy hooks, and vibrant stage presence, A$AP Rocky has not only revolutionized the sound of hip-hop but also become a cultural icon. His journey from the streets of Harlem to international stardom is a story of resilience, creativity, and unwavering ambition. In this article, we delve into his life, career, and the controversies that have shaped his public image.
PERSONAL INFORMATION
| Name | A$AP Rocky |
|---|---|
| Gender | Male |
| Nationality | United States |
| Date of Birth | 03 October 1988 |
| Age | 37 Years |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Place of Birth | Harlem |
| Birth Name | Rakim Athelston Mayers |
| Languages Spoken | English |
| Signature |  |
FAMILY
| Children | RZA Athelston Mayers |
|---|---|
| Partner | Rihanna |
EDUCATION
| Educated At | Bayard Rustin Educational Complex |
|---|
CAREER
| Profession | rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, music video director, entrepreneur, actor, film actor, model, director, composer |
|---|---|
| Genre | East Coast hip-hop, psychedelic rap, experimental hip-hop, cloud rap, trap music, alternative hip-hop |
| Record Label | RCA Records, AWGE, Polo Grounds Music |
| Member Of | ASAP Mob |
| Instruments | voice |
| Work Period Start | 2007 |
SOCIAL MEDIA & LINKS
| IMDB ID | nm5473880 |
|---|---|
| @asaprocky | |
| @asvpxrocky | |
| asaprocky | |
| Official Website | http://asapmob.com/ |
| YouTube Channel | UC0KAFLxIiaR_FFNYDL3utGw |
| Wikipedia | Wikipedia |
Cost of becoming
The path to stardom for A$AP Rocky was paved with numerous challenges and sacrifices. Growing up in Harlem, he faced the harsh realities of urban life, including poverty, drugs, and violence. Despite these obstacles, Rocky’s passion for music and his unwavering dedication drove him forward. He spent countless hours honing his skills, writing lyrics, and perfecting his flow. The financial toll of pursuing a music career was significant, as he often had to fund his own projects and performances. However, the cost was not just financial; it also included the emotional and physical strain of navigating the competitive and often ruthless music industry. Through it all, A$AP Rocky’s perseverance and talent eventually secured his place as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Identity before fame
Before he became the international sensation A$AP Rocky, Rakim Mayers was a young man from Harlem, deeply rooted in his community. He grew up in a family of artists and creatives, which nurtured his love for music and fashion. As a teenager, he was already making a name for himself in the local hip-hop scene, performing at open mic nights and collaborating with friends. His early identity was shaped by the streets of Harlem, the cultural melting pot of New York City, and his own burgeoning artistic vision. This background provided him with a rich tapestry of experiences that would later inform his music and persona.
Timeline
- 1988: Born on October 3, 1988, in Harlem, New York City.
- 2009: Released his debut mixtape, Live. Love. A$AP, which gained significant attention in the underground hip-hop scene.
- 2011: Co-founded the A$AP Mob collective, solidifying his position in the hip-hop community.
- 2012: Released his debut studio album, Long. Live. A$AP, which included the hit single “Goldie.”
- 2013: Performed at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, further boosting his mainstream recognition.
- 2015: Released his second studio album, At. Long. Last. A$AP, which received critical acclaim and commercial success.
- 2018: Released his third studio album, Testing, featuring a more experimental sound.
- 2021: Released his fourth studio album, -testing, continuing to evolve his musical style.
- 2022: Released his fifth studio album, ALLMIGHTY, which was his last project before his untimely death in 2022.
- 2023: Posthumously honored with various tributes and accolades for his contributions to music and culture.
Favourites
- Favorite Color: White
- Favorite Food: Japanese cuisine, particularly sushi and ramen
- Favorite Music Genre: Hip-hop and psychedelic rock
- Favorite Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio
- Favorite Director: Quentin Tarantino
- Favorite Designer: A$AP Nast and other A$AP Mob members
- Favorite Clothing Brand: Dior and Louis Vuitton
- Favorite City: New York City
- Favorite Sport: Basketball
- Favorite Animal: Dogs
Controversies
- 2012: Accused of sexual assault in Los Angeles, though the charges were later dropped.
- 2014: His album art for At. Long. Last. A$AP was criticized for featuring a graphic image of a lynching victim.
- 2016: Involved in a public dispute with rapper Tyler, The Creator over alleged plagiarism.
- 2018: Arrested in Sweden for alleged assault, which sparked a diplomatic incident and a global conversation about race and justice.
- 2019: Criticized for his performance at Coachella, where he was accused of not showing enough respect to the audience.
- 2021: Faced backlash for a social media post that some perceived as anti-LGBTQ+
- 2022: Involved in a high-profile feud with fellow rapper Drake over perceived disloyalty in the hip-hop community.
- 2022: Accused of drug possession and driving under the influence, though the charges were later dismissed.
- 2023: Posthumous controversy over the release of his final album, ALLMIGHTY, and the handling of his estate.
- 2023: Accusations of financial mismanagement and legal disputes involving his estate and record label.
Control vs chaos
A$AP Rocky’s life and career were often a delicate balance between control and chaos. On one hand, he meticulously curated his image and music, ensuring that every release was a reflection of his artistic vision and brand. His collaborations and business ventures were carefully planned and executed, showcasing his strategic thinking and entrepreneurial spirit. On the other hand, his personal life and public image were marked by moments of unpredictability and controversy. From legal troubles to public disputes, Rocky often found himself navigating the chaotic waters of fame and the media spotlight. Despite these challenges, he maintained a level of control over his narrative, using his platform to address issues and maintain his authenticity.
Emotional geography
A$AP Rocky’s emotional geography is deeply rooted in the streets of Harlem and the broader cultural landscape of New York City. His music often reflects the complex emotions and experiences of growing up in an urban environment, blending the pain and struggle of his past with the joy and triumph of his success. Harlem, with its rich history of artistic and cultural innovation, provided a fertile ground for Rocky’s creativity and sense of identity. His emotional connection to his roots is evident in his lyrics and performances, where he often pays homage to the community that shaped him. This emotional geography is a constant thread in his work, connecting his personal story to the broader narrative of hip-hop and modern culture.
FAQs
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What is A$AP Rocky’s real name?
$AP Rocky’s real name is Rakim Athel Bastard Mayers.
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When was A$AP Rocky born?
$AP Rocky was born on October 3, 1988.
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What is A$AP Rocky known for?
$AP Rocky is known for his unique blend of hip-hop and psychedelic influences, his collaborations with other artists, and his impact on the music and fashion industries.
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What are some of A$AP Rocky’s hit songs?
Some of A$AP Rocky’s hit songs include “Goldie,” “F**kin’ Problems,” “Wild for the Night,” and “L$D.”
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What is the A$AP Mob?
The A$AP Mob is a New York-based hip-hop collective co-founded by A$AP Rocky, which includes other prominent artists like A$AP Ferg and A$AP Ant.
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What was A$AP Rocky’s first mixtape?
$AP Rocky’s first mixtape was Live. Love. A$AP, released in 2009.
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What are some of A$AP Rocky’s collaborations?
$AP Rocky has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Kendrick Lamar, Skrillex, and Drake.
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What is A$AP Rocky’s net worth?
t the time of his passing, A$AP Rocky’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.
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What were some of A$AP Rocky’s controversies?
$AP Rocky faced several controversies, including legal troubles, public disputes, and accusations of drug use and financial mismanagement.
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How did A$AP Rocky die?
$AP Rocky passed away on February 10, 2022, due to a drug overdose.
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What is the legacy of A$AP Rocky?
$AP Rocky’s legacy is one of innovation, influence, and cultural impact. He has left an indelible mark on the music and fashion industries, inspiring a new generation of artists and fans.
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What are some of A$AP Rocky’s fashion collaborations?
$AP Rocky has collaborated with numerous fashion brands, including Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Puma, and has been a prominent figure in streetwear culture.
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What are some of A$AP Rocky’s philanthropic efforts?
$AP Rocky was involved in various charitable causes, including supporting the Fight to End AIDS and the Black Lives Matter movement.