Schoolboy Q, born Quincy Matthew Hanley on October 26, 1986, in Wiesbaden, Germany, had a tumultuous upbringing. At the age of 12, he joined the 52 Hoover Crips, a notorious street gang in Los Angeles. This early involvement in gang activity led him down a dangerous path, and he soon became involved in criminal activities, including drug dealing.
As a teenager, Schoolboy Q primarily sold Oxycontin, crack, and marijuana on the streets of Los Angeles. His involvement in the drug trade landed him in trouble with the law, and he was arrested and spent time in jail at the age of 21. Despite his criminal past, Schoolboy Q found solace in music.
It wasn't until Schoolboy Q turned 21 that he decided to pursue a career in music seriously. Drawing inspiration from his rough upbringing and experiences on the streets, he began rapping and writing lyrics as a form of expression. His raw and authentic style quickly caught the attention of music producers and fellow artists.
In 2011, Schoolboy Q gained recognition for his work with the hip hop supergroup Black Hippy, alongside artists like Kendrick Lamar and Ab-Soul. His gritty lyrics and unique flow set him apart from other artists in the genre, and he quickly made a name for himself in the hip hop community.
Schoolboy Q's independent album, Setbacks, was released in 2011 and gained critical acclaim for its raw and honest portrayal of his life experiences. The album charted on the US Billboard 200, solidifying his status as a rising star in the music industry.
In 2013, Schoolboy Q released his first studio album, Oxymoron, which debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200. The album received widespread praise from critics and fans alike, solidifying Schoolboy Q's position as a top-tier hip hop artist.
Throughout his career, Schoolboy Q has continued to push boundaries with his music, experimenting with different styles and collaborating with a variety of artists. His versatility and authenticity have made him a fan favorite in the rap world.
Despite his tough exterior and gritty lyrics, Schoolboy Q is a devoted father. His daughter, Joy, was born in 2010, and he has been open about the impact fatherhood has had on his life and music.
In addition to his music career, Schoolboy Q is also passionate about giving back to his community. He has spoken out against gang violence and has used his platform to raise awareness about social issues affecting young people in marginalized communities.
Throughout his career, Schoolboy Q has collaborated with some of the biggest names in hip hop, including ASAP Rocky, Kendrick Lamar, and Jay Rock. His dynamic flow and introspective lyrics have earned him a reputation as one of the most talented artists in the industry.
With multiple hit albums and a loyal fan base, Schoolboy Q's legacy in the music industry is secure. His raw and unapologetic style has resonated with listeners around the world, solidifying his status as a hip hop icon.
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