Zernardo Tate, known by his stage name ZMoney, was born on February 6, 1993 in Chicago, Illinois. He spent his childhood in various neighborhoods on the West Side of Chicago, including Lawndale and Austin. Growing up, ZMoney was surrounded by the vibrant hip-hop scene of Chicago, which would later influence his own music.
In 2014, ZMoney's promising rap career came to a halt when he was sentenced to jail. However, this setback did not deter him from his passion for music. While incarcerated, ZMoney poured his energy into songwriting, penning over 300 tracks. His dedication paid off when he was released and immediately got back to work on his music.
Upon his release, ZMoney wasted no time in making a comeback. In 2016, he released a seven-song mixtape that showcased his growth as an artist during his time in prison. His raw and authentic lyrics resonated with listeners, leading to a surge in popularity for ZMoney's music.
One fateful day, shortly after moving to Atlanta following his release from prison, ZMoney received a life-changing phone call. It was none other than Gucci Mane himself, expressing interest in hearing more of ZMoney's music. This unexpected turn of events marked a major turning point in ZMoney's career.
Impressed by ZMoney's unique style and storytelling ability, Gucci Mane offered him a record deal with his label, 1017 Eskimo. The partnership with Gucci Mane provided ZMoney with the platform to reach a larger audience and expand his fan base.
ZMoney's roots lie in Mississippi, where his parents originated from. This Southern heritage shines through in his music, as he often draws inspiration from his upbringing and family background. The rich musical traditions of the South have had a significant impact on ZMoney's sound and lyrical content.
During his formative years, ZMoney attended grade school alongside DJ Oreo, who would later become Chance The Rapper's original touring DJ. This connection to Chance The Rapper illustrates the close-knit nature of the Chicago music scene and the mutual support among rising artists in the city.
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