What to know about Young Thug
Young Thug, an American rapper, singer and songwriter, is known in private life as Jeffery Lamar Williams II. Born in Atlanta, Georgia on August 16, 1991, he is the tenth of 11 children.
Williams, an indigene of Sylvan Hills, grew up in the Jonesboro South projects near Cleveland Avenue.
Following his emergence in the music scene, Thug has been topping charts and collaborating with other artists. His unique and innovative style has contributed to the redefinition of hip-hop. The 33-year-old’s impact on hip-hop culture and contemporary music cannot be underestimated.
When did Young Thug’s music career start?
The musical career of Young Thug started in 2010 after a debut guest appearance on rapper TruRoyal’s song “She Can Go”. Following the release of ‘I Came from Nothing’ mixtapes which were in three intallments between 2011 and 2012, he caught the attention of Gucci Mane, another Atlanta-based rapper. He then signed him to his label 1017 Brick Squad Records, an Asylum/Atlantic imprint, in 2013.
Following the signing, Young Thug dropped his first project on the label ‘1017 Thug’—which was his fourth mixtape. Because of its originality and style, music critics gave positive reviews to the mixtape. After this success, the 1017 Thug mixtape appeared on several year-end lists for 2013, including Pitchfork’s Albums of the Year: Honorable Mention and Complex’s The 50 Best Albums of 2013.
The rise and breakthrough of Young Thug
Young Thug made a disclosure about being offered $8.5 million to sign to Future’s Freebandz record label in January 2014. Following his affiliation with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cash Money Records, Birdman, in March 2014, it was speculated that he was about to be signed to the label. However, the publicist of the label debunked the speculation.
Later, Ronald “Caveman” Rosario, director of Urban Music at 1017 Distribution, clarified on March 28, 2014, that Thug signed a management deal with Birdman’s Rich Gang, not a record deal and stressed that he was still signed to 1017 Brick Squad.
Young Thug continued working hard in 2014, as he recorded numerous songs with Kanye West. The latter sang the praises of Thug for having the ability to make songs so fast.
After releasing his debut single, “Stoner,” on March 11, 2014, Asylum and Atlantic Records serviced it to rhythmic contemporary radio in the United States.
Thug also announced on March 24, 2014, that his debut album would be titled Carter 6 which was in reference to the highly acclaimed Tha Carter album series by American hip-hop superstar Lil Wayne, who influenced his music career.
He further released several successful projects which included “Barter 6” and “So Much Fun.” His great work and collaboration with other famous artistes helped him. Apart from making money from his songs, another source of his revenue was through tours and live performances.
READ ALSO: Young Thug finally pleads guilty to gang, drug and gun charges
Career Impact
When Thug released his debut commercial song ‘Stoner’, many rappers jumped on it and made unofficial remixes. He expressed his unhappiness about these unofficial remixes and threatened that he was ready for war.
Also, the rapper’s ‘Danner Glover’ song attracted many rappers to make remixes. Among these rappers were Waka Flocka Flame and Nicki Minaj.
Young Thug influenced young rappers in Atlanta and other places with his talent and craft.
Young Thug’s arrest
Young Thug was arrested in 2023. His arrest was due to a RICO investigation over alleged racketeering.
He recently pleaded guilty to gang-related, drug, and firearm charges in Atlanta.
Is Young Thug released?
Following his guilty plea, Thug was released from jail on October 31, 2024. However, if he violates the terms of his sentence, there is the possibility of him being imprisoned again.
The net worth of Young Thug
Several sources pegged the net worth of Young Thug around $6 million. Depending on the source, the estimated figure may vary.
Sadly, his legal issue and arrest have impacted his career and wealth negatively.
READ ALSO: Contempt ruling against Young Thug’s lawyer overturned by Georgia Supreme Court
