Mod Sun, whose birth name is Derek Smith, was born on October 3, 1987, in Bloomington, Minnesota. His parents divorced when he was young, leading him to split his time between Long Beach, California, where his father lived, and Bloomington, where his mother resided. Growing up, he was influenced by his parents' diverse music tastes, which ranged from heavy metal to hip hop.
Before he became known as Mod Sun, Derek Smith was a drummer for heavy metal bands Four Letter Lie in Minnesota and Scary Kids Scaring Kids in Arizona. However, his passion for hip hop led him to pursue a solo music career. In 2009, he recorded his debut hip-hop mixtape titled Let Ya Teeth Show, marking the beginning of his journey as a rapper.
In 2010, Mod Sun gained popularity with the release of his first EP. His unique style, described as "hippy hop," blended elements of hippie culture with hip hop music. This distinctive sound caught the attention of fans and critics alike, setting him apart in the music industry. In 2017, he released his second studio album, Movie, further solidifying his place as a rising star in the rap scene.
Mod Sun's personal life has also been in the spotlight. He dated actress Bella Thorne from 2018 to 2019 and later began a relationship with singer Avril Lavigne. The couple made headlines when they announced their engagement in April of 2022. However, in February 2023, Mod Sun and Avril announced their separation, marking the end of their whirlwind romance.
Aside from his music career and personal life, Mod Sun is known for coining the term "hippy hop" to describe his genre of music. His 2011 mixtape, Blazed By The Bell, featured guest vocals from fellow rappers Nipsey Hussle and Schoolboy Q, further showcasing his versatility and collaborative spirit. Mod Sun continues to captivate audiences with his eclectic style and infectious energy, leaving a mark on the music industry that is uniquely his own.
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