Kenzo Balla was born and raised in The Bronx, New York. He grew up in a tight-knit family with his mother and brother, who would later become a fellow rapper known as Crippy. His mother, a fan of Beyoncé and R&B music, often played music around the house, sparking Kenzo's interest in music from a young age.
As a teenager, Kenzo was a talented shooting guard on his local AAU basketball team. However, it was his experiences growing up in the Bronx that would ultimately shape his future. Witnessing tragedies and struggles in his community inspired him to use music as a way to express himself.
Kenzo's musical journey began in 2018 when he started recording his own songs. His unique style and raw talent quickly caught the attention of 10K Projects, leading to a record deal. His debut tracks, such as "Backends" and "5th to the Sev," showcased his lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
In 2022, Kenzo released his first album, Mr. Ready to Balla, which featured hits like "Late at Night" and "Villain." The following year, he dropped The Year of the Balla, with standout tracks including "Emotional Damage" and "My Type of Time."
Kenzo's music began gaining traction on streaming platforms, with over 375,000 monthly listeners on Spotify by the summer of 2023. Songs like "Opp Huntin'" and "PSA" quickly amassed millions of plays, solidifying his place in the rap scene.
Collaborating with other artists, such as Set Da Trend, Kyle Richh, and FaZe Kaysan, helped expand Kenzo's reach and fanbase. His versatile sound and honest lyrics resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal following.
Kenzo Balla's close bond with his family remains a driving force in his career. His mother's love for music and his brother's own musical aspirations have been sources of inspiration and motivation for Kenzo.
Despite his rapid rise to fame, Kenzo stays true to his roots and uses his platform to shed light on the realities of life in the Bronx. His authenticity and dedication to his craft set him apart in the competitive music industry.
As Kenzo Balla continues to make waves in the rap world, his journey serves as a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. With each new release, he solidifies his status as a rising star and a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.