Albert Johnson, known by his stage name Prodigy, was born on February 11, 1974, in New York City. Raised in a musical family, Prodigy's mother, Fatima Collins, was a member of the popular girl group The Crystals, and his grandfather was the renowned saxophonist Budd Johnson. Growing up in the rough neighborhoods of New York, Prodigy was exposed to the harsh realities of street life from a young age.
Prodigy discovered his love for music early on and began rapping as a teenager. He quickly gained attention for his raw talent and started making a name for himself in the underground hip-hop scene.
Prodigy's big break came when he joined forces with fellow rapper Havoc to form the group Mobb Deep. The duo's gritty and authentic approach to gangsta rap resonated with audiences, earning them a dedicated fan base. Their debut album, released in 1996, titled Hell on Earth, solidified their status as pioneers of the genre.
With hits like "Shook Ones, Pt. II" and "Survival of the Fittest," Mobb Deep's music captured the struggles and triumphs of life in the streets, showcasing Prodigy's intricate lyricism and Havoc's production skills. The duo's partnership was a match made in heaven, with their chemistry shining through in every track they released.
As Mobb Deep rose to fame, Prodigy's personal life became entangled with the trappings of success. He found himself embroiled in legal issues and feuds with other rappers, adding to the mystique surrounding the group. Despite the controversies, Mobb Deep continued to deliver hit after hit, solidifying their legacy as one of the most influential rap groups of their time.
In 2011, Prodigy decided to tell his story in his own words, releasing his autobiography titled My Infamous Life: The Autobiography of Mobb Deep's Prodigy. The book gave fans a glimpse into Prodigy's tumultuous journey through fame, highlighting the highs and lows of his career and personal life.
Despite facing his fair share of challenges, Prodigy's legacy as a rapper and lyricist remains untarnished. His impact on the hip-hop world is undeniable, with his influence still felt in the music industry today. Prodigy's untimely passing in 2017 left a void in the hearts of his fans, but his music continues to live on, inspiring new generations of artists.
In conclusion, Albert Johnson, aka Prodigy, will always be remembered as a true pioneer of gangsta rap, whose raw talent and uncompromising lyricism left an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop.