YG (rapper)
{{Short description|American rapper (born 1990)}}
{{distinguish|Yo Gotti}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2022}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = YG
| image = YG.jpg
| caption = YG in 2015
| birth_name = Keenon Dequan Ray Jackson
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|mf=yes|1990|3|9}}
| birth_place = Compton, California, U.S.
| genre = {{hlist|West Coast hip hop|gangsta rap|dirty rap (early)}}
| occupation = {{hlist|Rapper|songwriter|actor}}
| discography = YG discography
| years_active = 2008{{ndash}}present
| label = {{hlist|Epic|4Hunnid|Def Jam|CTE World|Interscope|BMG}}
{{Infobox person
| child = yes
| children = 2
| status =
| website = {{URL|4hunnid.com}}
}}
}}
Keenon Dequan Ray Jackson{{Cite web|url=https://www.californiabirthindex.org/birth/keenon_dequanray_jackson_born_1990_19962792|title=Keenon Dequanray Jackson, Born 03/09/1990 in California | CaliforniaBirthIndex.org|website=www.californiabirthindex.org}} (born March 9, 1990),{{cite web|first=Andy |last=Kellman|url=https://www.allmusic.com/artist/yg-mn0000803699/biography |title=YG Biography & History |publisher=AllMusic.com |date=March 9, 1990 |access-date=June 18, 2016}} better known by his stage name YG (short for Young Gangsta), is an American rapper. He released his debut mixtape 4Fingaz in 2008, and its follow-up, The Real 4Fingaz, the following year. The latter gained recognition for its local hit song "Toot It and Boot It", which entered the Billboard Hot 100 at number 67 and received platinum certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).{{cite web|first=Matthew|last=Wilkening|url=http://www.aolradioblog.com/2010/06/22/yg-toot-it-and-boot-it/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100624083255/http://www.aolradioblog.com/2010/06/22/yg-toot-it-and-boot-it/ |url-status=usurped |archive-date=June 24, 2010 |title=YG, 'Toot It and Boot It' – New Song |publisher=AOL Radio Blog |date=June 22, 2010 |access-date=February 11, 2012}} He signed a recording contract with Def Jam Recordings in October 2009, which entered joint-venture with Atlanta-based rapper Jeezy's record label, CTE World, in 2013.{{cite web|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/10/yg-signs-to-def-jam-first-local-rapper-signed-to-the-label-in-15-years.html |title=Def Jam again sets its sights on Los Angeles: Bompton's YG signs to the major |website=Latimesblogs.latimes.com |date=October 14, 2009 |access-date=February 11, 2012}}
His 2013 single, "My Nigga" (featuring Jeezy and Rich Homie Quan), peaked at number 19 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song and its follow-ups, "Left, Right" (featuring DJ Mustard) and "Who Do You Love?" (featuring Drake), preceded the release of his debut studio album, My Krazy Life (2014), which peaked at number two on the Billboard 200 and saw positive critical reception. Also in 2014, he guest appeared on Jeremih's single "Don't Tell 'Em", which peaked at number six on the Hot 100 and remains his highest-charting song. His second album, Still Brazy (2016), was met with critical acclaim despite less commercial orientation, as it explored political and social issues for its subject matter.{{cite web | url=https://www.thefader.com/2016/06/17/yg-still-brazy-interview/amp | title=YG on His New Album and Why He's Getting Political }}
His third studio album, Stay Dangerous (2018), was met with continued critical and commercial success. It was preceded by the single "Big Bank" (featuring 2 Chainz, Big Sean and Nicki Minaj), which peaked at number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains his highest-charting song as a lead artist. His fourth studio album, 4Real 4Real (2019), was released in memory of slain rapper and frequent collaborator Nipsey Hussle. His fifth and sixth studio albums, My Life 4Hunnid (2020) and I Got Issues (2022) followed thereafter. His collaborative albums, Kommunity Service (2021) with Mozzy and Hit Me When U Leave the Klub: The Playlist (2023) with Tyga, were both released independently and met with critical praise.{{Cite web|title=Tyga and YG Drop Collab Album: 'HIT ME WHEN YOU LEAVE THE KLUB: THE PLAYLIST'|date=September 30, 2023 |url=https://thesource.com/2023/09/30/tyga-and-yg-drop-collab-album-hit-me-when-you-leave-the-klub-the-playlist/}}
Early life
Keenon Dequan Ray Jackson was born on March 9, 1990, in Compton, California.{{cite web|last=Roberts|first=Randall|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-rapper-yg-krazy-life-interview-20140318-story.html|title=Rapper YG talks about his 'Krazy Life'|work=Los Angeles Times|date=March 18, 2014|access-date=April 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140517042138/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-rapper-yg-krazy-life-interview-20140318-story.html|archive-date=May 17, 2014|url-status=live}} He grew up on the 400 block of West Spruce Street in Compton, California. The 400 block name would inspire his "4hunnid" tag, along with the names of his record label and streetwear brands.{{cite web |last1=Rosecrans Vic |title=THE NEIGHBOURHOOD & YG "DANGEROUS" |url=https://rosecransave.com/2014/11/30/the-neighbourhood-yg-dangerous/ |website=Rosecrans Avenue |date=December 2014 |access-date=24 May 2023}}{{cite web |title=YG -- BPT Lyrics |url=https://genius.com/2925410 |website=Genius |access-date=24 May 2023}} His stage name "YG" stands for "Young Gangsta."{{Cite news|url=http://www.sosoactive.com/ten-must-know-yg-facts/|title=Ten Must Know Facts About Compton Rapper YG|last=jonsilva|date=March 24, 2014|work=SoSoActive.com|access-date=June 14, 2017|language=en-US}} YG joined the Pirus in 2006 at age 16.{{cite web|url=https://www.vibe.com/2014/09/one-time-yg-pulled-out-gun-church/|title=That One Time YG Pulled Out A Gun At Church…|last=Kennedy|first=John|work=Vibe|date=September 19, 2014|access-date=July 11, 2018}} His father served time in jail for tax fraud.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/8507663/yg-new-album-4-real-4-real-nipsey-hussle-interview|title=YG's Life Was Finally on Track -- Then Tragedy Hit|magazine=Billboard|access-date=May 30, 2019}}
Career
=2008–2012: Beginnings=
YG created the "Pu$haz Ink" record label and group with DJ Mustard in 2008.{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/01/yg-dj-mustard/ |title=YG And DJ Mustard Prime For A Mainstream Hip-Hop Takeover - XXL Issue 152 - XXL |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=2014-01-08 |accessdate=2014-01-29}} After releasing several songs that garnered him a large following on the internet, such as "She A Model" and "Aim Me" YG signed to Def Jam in 2009.{{cite web|url=http://www.islanddefjam.com/artist/home.aspx?artistID=7423 |title=Y.G. | Artists | Def Jam |publisher=Island Def Jam |date= |accessdate=February 11, 2012}} According to Max Gousse, the senior VP of A&R at Island/Def Jam who inked the rapper, the signing stemmed from a newfound emphasis on West Coast artists by label president/CEO L.A. Reid, as well as, YG's technical ability and stage presence.{{cite web|url=http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/music_blog/2009/10/yg-signs-to-def-jam-first-local-rapper-signed-to-the-label-in-15-years.html|title=Pop & Hiss|publisher=|accessdate=March 9, 2015}} However, just as he was getting his buzz up in mid-2009, he was arrested on a parole violation, stemming from a previous charge of residential burglary. Following this, he worked on mixtapes, touring, and a clothing line based on his brand, 4Hunnid.{{cite web|url=http://24hourhiphop.com/article.php?id=9101 |title=YG: Toot It and Boot It « |publisher=24hourhiphop.com |date=January 10, 2011 |accessdate=February 11, 2012}} Def Jam re-released "Toot It and Boot It," which features singer Ty Dolla Sign in June 2010, and became the rapper's first hit song. He was also included as part of XXL's 2011 Freshmen Class.{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/2011-freshman-class/yg/ |title=XXL 2011 Freshmen Class | Freshman YG |publisher=Xxlmag.Com |date=May 25, 2009 |accessdate=February 11, 2012}} Beginning with YG's mixtape The Real 4 Fingaz, Mustard began further producing on YG's projects. Their work resulted in songs such as "I'm Good", "Bitches Ain't Shit" featuring Tyga and Nipsey Hussle, and "You Broke", also featuring Nipsey Hussle. The singles were met with moderate success, but not near as much as his debut single.{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/you-broke-feat-nipsey-hussle-single/1445306233 |title=iTunes - Music - You Broke (feat. Nipsey Hussle) - Single by YG |publisher=iTunes |date=2013-03-19 |access-date=2013-09-27}}{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/01/yg-dj-mustard/2/ |title=YG And DJ Mustard Prime For A Mainstream Hip-Hop Takeover - XXL Issue 152 - Page 2 of 2 - XXL |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=2014-01-08 |accessdate=2014-03-14}}
=2012–2014: Signing with CTE World and ''My Krazy Life''=
{{main|My Krazy Life}}
In 2012, he announced his debut album, then titled “I'm 4rm Bompton”. Later in June 2013, he revealed that Jeezy's record label CTE World would release the album.{{cite web|url = http://www.complex.com/music/2013/06/yg-announces-that-hes-signing-to-young-jeezys-cte|title = YG Young Jeezy CTE|publisher = Complex|date = June 18, 2013|access-date = September 27, 2013}} He was then featured on Yo Gotti's "Act Right" also featuring Jeezy. It would peak at number 100 on the Billboard Hot 100.{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/431628/Yo+Gotti/chart?f=379|title=Yo Gotti|website=Billboard.com|access-date=March 9, 2015}} He was then prominently featured on the CTE World mixtape, Boss Yo Life Up Gang in August 2013.{{cite web|url=http://www.rap-up.com/2013/08/13/new-music-young-jeezy-yg-doughboyz-cashout-bylug-boss-yo-life-up-gang-vol-1-mixtape/|title=New Music: Young Jeezy, YG, & Doughboyz Cashout – 'Boss Yo Life Up Gang' [Mixtape]|work=Rap-Up|access-date=March 9, 2015}}
On September 4, 2013, YG revealed that his debut album would be released on November 19, 2013, via Def Jam Recordings and that he has changed the album title to My Krazy Life. He also revealed that Drake would be featured on a song titled "Who Do You Love?", produced by DJ Mustard. Shortly thereafter he released the album's lead single "My Nigga" featuring Rich Homie Quan and Jeezy, also produced by DJ Mustard.{{cite web|first=Rob |last=Markman |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1713525/drake-yg-my-krazy-life-feature.jhtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130908090123/http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1713525/drake-yg-my-krazy-life-feature.jhtml |url-status=dead |archive-date=September 8, 2013 |title=YG's Debut Gets A Name Change, Release Date And A Drake Feature |website=MTV.com |date=September 4, 2013 |access-date=September 27, 2013}} The song has since peaked at number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100.{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/5755392/yg/chart?f=379 |title=YG – Chart history |magazine=Billboard |access-date=January 29, 2014}} On December 10, 2013, YG released the DJ Mustard-produced "Left, Right" as the album's second single.{{cite web|author=Navjosh |url=http://hiphop-n-more.com/2013/12/yg-left-right-feat-dj-mustard-official-version/ |title=YG – 'Left, Right' (Feat. DJ Mustard) (Official Version) |publisher=HipHop-N-More |date=December 11, 2013 |access-date=January 29, 2014}} The following day, Def Jam announced that My Krazy Life would be released on March 18, 2014{{cite web |author=Amaya |url=http://www.defjam.com/ygs-debut-album-krazy-life-set-march-18th-release-date |title=YG's Debut Album "My Krazy Life" Set For A March 18th Release Date Def Jam |website=Defjam.com |date=December 11, 2013 |access-date=January 29, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140128062711/http://www.defjam.com/ygs-debut-album-krazy-life-set-march-18th-release-date/ |archive-date=January 28, 2014 }} and that "Who Do You Love?" featuring Drake would be the album's next single.{{cite web|last=Tardio |first=Andres |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26434/title.yg-my-krazy-life-release-date |title=YG "My Krazy Life" Release Date | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=HipHop DX |date=December 11, 2013 |access-date=January 29, 2014}} On February 18, 2014, YG revealed the cover artwork for his debut album My Krazy Life. The artwork features YG posing for a mugshot, with his name and album title detailed in the placard around his neck.{{cite web|last=Tardio |first=Andres |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26434/title.yg-my-krazy-life-release-date-cover-art |title=YG "My Krazy Life" Release Date, Cover Art & Tracklist | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=HipHop DX |date=February 20, 2014 |access-date=March 14, 2014}} It was released on March 18, 2014.
YG was accused of racism against the Asian American community, especially Chinese Americans, due to lyrics from the album's song "Meet the Flockers". In the song, YG raps "First, you find a house and scope it out / Find a Chinese neighborhood, cause they don't believe in bank accounts." In the succeeding lyrics, YG describes a home invasion and burglary.{{cite web |date=October 15, 2016 |title=Chinese-Americans Protest YG Rap Song Glorifying Robberies In Chinese Hoods |url=https://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2016/10/15/chinese-americans-protest-yg-rap-song-glorifying-robberies-in-chinese-hoods/ |access-date=March 10, 2021 |publisher=CBS Local}} Receiving little controversy when first released, over the years the song accumulated media attention, scrutiny, and protest.{{cite news |last=Hawkins |first=Derek |date=October 21, 2016 |title=Why some Asian Americans want to ban this rap song |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/10/21/a-2-year-old-rap-song-has-drawn-criticism-from-asian-americans-whats-behind-the-push-to-ban-it/ |access-date=September 17, 2021 |newspaper=Washington Post}} By 2021, community members, politicians such as San Francisco Supervisor Jane Kim, and YouTube employees demanded that the song be removed from YouTube.{{Cite web |last=Minsker |first=Evan |date=2021-03-31 |title=YouTube Won't Pull YG's "Meet the Flockers" Amid Staff Outcry Over Anti-Asian Lyrics |url=https://pitchfork.com/news/youtube-wont-pull-ygs-meet-the-flockers-amid-staff-outcry-over-anti-asian-lyrics/ |access-date=2024-12-12 |website=Pitchfork |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |date=2021-03-30 |title=YouTube Refuses to Remove Anti-Asian Song, Drawing Staff Ire |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-03-30/youtube-refuses-to-remove-anti-asian-song-drawing-staff-ire?sref=KQPtNSUL |access-date=2024-12-12 |work=Bloomberg.com |language=en}} YouTube stated that the song's lyrics did violate its hate speech policies, but refused to remove the song on artistic grounds. YG has described "Meet the Flockers" as being representative of the culture he grew up in, and discussed his past experiences committing burglaries.{{cite news |last=Hawkins |first=Derek |date=October 21, 2016 |title=Why some Asian Americans want to ban this rap song |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/morning-mix/wp/2016/10/21/a-2-year-old-rap-song-has-drawn-criticism-from-asian-americans-whats-behind-the-push-to-ban-it/ |access-date=September 17, 2021 |newspaper=Washington Post}} By 2021, the song was reuploaded to streaming platforms with the controversial lyrics edited out.{{Cite magazine |last=Shaffer |first=Claire |date=2021-04-06 |title=YG's 'Meet the Flockers' Returns to Streaming With Anti-Asian Lyrics Removed |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ygs-meet-the-flockers-removed-anti-asian-lyrics-1151805/ |access-date=2024-12-12 |magazine=Rolling Stone |language=en-US}}
=2015–2019: ''Still Brazy'', ''Stay Dangerous'' and ''4Real 4Real''=
{{Main|Still Brazy||Stay Dangerous||4Real 4Real}}
On June 24, 2015, in an interview with Billboard, YG revealed that his second studio album would be called Still Krazy and it would be released in 2015{{cite magazine
| url = https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6605861/yg-speaks-out-since-being-shot
| title = YG Speaks Out for First Time Since Being Shot: 'I'm Hard to Kill' (Exclusive)
| magazine = Billboard
| access-date = March 2, 2016
}} On July 15, 2015, YG teased the first single for the album, "Twist My Fingaz" on Instagram.{{cite web
| url = http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-previews-twist-my-fingaz-single-dropping-tomorrow-news.16505.html
| title = YG Previews "Twist My Fingaz" Single Dropping Tomorrow
| website = HotNewHipHop
| date = July 15, 2015
| access-date = March 2, 2016
}} The same day, YG released the single, "Cash Money" featuring Krayzie Bone.{{cite web
| url = http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-cash-money-feat-krayzie-bone-new-song.1965427.html
| title = YG – Cash Money Feat. Krayzie Bone {{!}} Stream [New Song]
| website = HotNewHipHop
| date = July 15, 2015
| access-date = March 2, 2016
}} The full version of "Twist My Fingaz" was released July 17, 2015.{{cite web
| url = http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-twist-my-fingaz-prod-by-terrace-martin-new-song.1965434.html
| title = YG – Twist My Fingaz (Prod. By Terrace Martin) {{!}} Stream [New Song]
| website = HotNewHipHop
| date = July 16, 2015
| access-date = March 2, 2016
}} On December 12, 2015, he released the second single, titled "I Want a Benz" featuring rappers Nipsey Hussle and 50 Cent.{{cite web
| url = http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-i-wanna-benz-feat-nipsey-hussle-and-50-cent-prod-by-london-on-da-track-new-song.1967647.html
| title = YG – I Wanna Benz Feat. Nipsey Hussle & 50 Cent (Prod. By London On Da Track) {{!}} Stream [New Song]
| website = HotNewHipHop
| date = December 13, 2015
| access-date = March 2, 2016
}}
Still Brazy was released on June 17, 2016. The third single "Why You Always Hatin?" premiered on OVO Sound Radio on May 21, 2016, featuring rappers Drake and Kamaiyah.{{cite web |url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/yg-to-premiere-single-on-ovo-radio-still-krazy-scheduled-for-june-news.21607.html? |title=YG set to premiere single |last=Smith
|first=Danny |date=May 13, 2016 |website=Hotnewhiphop |access-date= May 13, 2016}} On November 25, 2016, he digitally released the Black Friday inspired Red Friday, containing 8 new tracks.{{cite web |url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/ygs-red-friday-tracklist-is-here-news.25661.html? |title=YG Red Friday released on November 25 |last=Lilah |first=Rose |date=November 22, 2016 |website= Hotnewhiphop|access-date=November 22, 2016}}
YG announced through social media Just Re'd Up 3: Know Your Worth on December 17, 2016, and again on March 16, 2017. The project was to be executively produced DJ Mustard. It has yet to release, with no comment from YG or DJ Mustard.{{Cite news|url=http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.41714/title.yg-announces-just-red-up-3-with-dj-mustard|title=YG Announces "Just Re'd Up 3" With DJ Mustard|newspaper=HipHopDX|language=en-US|access-date=December 19, 2016}}
On February 3, 2017, the song "I Don't", by American singer Mariah Carey was released, featuring YG.{{cite web|last1=McIntyre|first1=Hugh|title=Mariah Carey Returns With New YG-Assisted Single 'I Don't'|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/hughmcintyre/2017/02/03/mariah-carey-returns-with-new-yg-assisted-single-i-dont/#77a2cf7634a7|website=Forbes.com|access-date=July 2, 2017}} Carey and YG performed "I Don't" live on Jimmy Kimmel Live! on February 15, 2017.{{cite web|url=http://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/mariah-carey-first-live-performance-since-disastrous-nye-gig-w467387|title=Mariah Carey Sings in First Live Performance Since Disastrous New Year's Eve Gig|work=Us Weekly|date=February 16, 2017|access-date=February 16, 2017}} On March 24, 2017, a remix featuring Remy Ma and YG was released.{{cite web|title=I Don't (feat. Remy Ma & YG) [Remix] – Single by Mariah Carey|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/i-dont-feat-remy-ma-yg-remix-single/1217573337|website=iTunes Store (U.S.)|date=March 24, 2017 |access-date=April 24, 2017}}{{cite web|title=I Don't (feat. Remy Ma & YG) [Remix] – Single by Mariah Carey|url=https://music.apple.com/gb/album/i-dont-feat-remy-ma-yg-remix-single/1217573337|website=iTunes Store (UK)|date=March 24, 2017 |access-date=March 24, 2017}}
On February 19, 2018, YG announced his third studio album would be Stay Dangerous on his Instagram page and would be released this summer. It was released in 2018.
On April 3, 2019, YG announced a "surprise album" titled 4Real 4Real via Twitter originally due for release on April 12, being delayed to May 24 due to the death of his close friend Nipsey Hussle. It was released to positive reviews. The album includes the single "Go Loko" and the diss track aimed at 6ix9ine, "Stop Snitchin".{{Cite web|url=https://twitter.com/YG/status/1113584832527781888|title=I was dropping a Surprise album April 12th But man. Now that we gotta deal with Big bro goin to heaven I will not drop the album this month. Pushing it to May, Sorry! LONG LIVE @NipseyHussle my brother from the other color!|last=DANGEROUS|first=STAY|date=April 3, 2019|via=Twitter|language=en|access-date=April 4, 2019}}
=2020–present: ''My Life 4Hunnid'', ''I Got Issues'', ''Just Re'd Up 3''=
{{Main|My Life 4Hunnid|Kommunity Service|I Got Issues|Just Re'd Up 3}}
As of 2020, YG has released a number of songs, including the protest track, "FTP (Fuck the Police)", with the video shot at a Black Lives Matter protest in Hollywood, following the murder of George Floyd. He also joined Public Enemy, alongside Nas, Questlove, and Rapsody, among others, at the 2020 BET Awards for a performance of Public Enemy's classic track "Fight the Power". On July 10, YG released the single "War", with a video where he is dressed as footballer Colin Kaepernick.{{cite web|url=https://pitchfork.com/news/yg-dresses-as-colin-kaepernick-in-video-for-new-song-swag-watch/|title=YG Dresses as Colin Kaepernick in Video for New Song "Swag"|work=Pitchfork|last=Bloom|first=Madison|date=July 10, 2020|access-date=July 11, 2020}}
On September 15, 2020, YG took to his social media to announce his new album My Life 4Hunnid, which was released on October 2, 2020. The album was entirely recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic and was "highly influenced" by 2Pac. The same week, he released the single "Money Mouf", with Saweetie and Tyga. On September 23, 2020, YG released the single, "Out on Bail", inspired by 2Pac's song of the same name.{{cite web|url=https://www.complex.com/music/a/cmplxjoshua-espinoza/yg-out-on-bail-new-album-highly-influenced-by-2pac|title=YG Drops "Out on Bail" Video, Says New Album Was 'Highly Influenced' by 2Pac|work=Complex|last1=Joshua|first1=Espinoza|last2=Cowen|first2=Trace William|date=September 23, 2020|access-date=September 23, 2020}}
On May 3, 2021, YG announced his first collaborative album, with Sacramento rapper Mozzy.{{Cite magazine|last=Blistein|first=Jon|date=May 3, 2021|title=YG, Mozzy Preview Collaborative Album With Title Track 'Perfect Timing'|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/yg-mozzy-new-song-perfect-timing-1164376/|access-date=June 18, 2021|magazine=Rolling Stone|language=en}} It was announced under the working title Perfect Timing, but was later changed to Kommunity Service and released on May 21, 2021. The cover art serves as a tribute to late rapper DMX and the film Belly, in which he starred in.{{Cite web|last=Mahadevan|first=Tara|date=May 18, 2021|title=YG and Mozzy Reveal 'Kommunity Service' Release Date, Tracklist, and Cover Art|url=https://www.complex.com/music/yg-mozzy-kommunity-service-release-date-tracklist-cover-art|access-date=June 18, 2021|website=Complex|language=en}} The album was supported by two singles: "Bompton to Oak Park" and "Perfect Timing" featuring Blxst.
Since his collaboration with Mozzy, YG has released two more studio albums: 2022's I Got Issues and 2024's Just Re'd Up 3, the latter being his seventh studio album.{{Cite magazine |last=Saponara |first=Michael |date=2024-08-16 |title=YG Returns With 'Just Re'd Up 3' Album Featuring Saweetie, Ty Dolla $ign & More |url=https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/yg-just-red-up-3-album-stream-1235755311/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |magazine=Billboard |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=YG Announces Just Re'd Up Summer 2024 Tour amid Seventh Album Rollout |url=https://people.com/yg-announces-2024-just-re-d-up-tour-dates-amid-seventh-album-rollout-8652103 |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=People.com |language=en}} YG also performed at The Pop Out: Ken and Friends, a 2024 Kendrick Lamar concert occurring in the wake of the Lamar-Drake feud.{{Cite magazine |last=Conteh |first=Mankaprr |date=2024-06-20 |title=Dr. Dre, Tyler, the Creator, YG, and Others 'Pop Out' at Kendrick Lamar's Juneteenth Concert |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/kendrick-lamar-dr-dre-tyler-the-creator-yg-juneteenth-concert-1235042864/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |magazine=Rolling Stone |language=en-US}}
4Hunnid Records
{{anchor|4Hunnid Records}}
{{Infobox record label
| name = 4Hunnid Records
| image = 4Hunnid Records logo.png
| image_size = 200px
| parent =
| founded = {{Start date and age|2015}}
| founder = YG
Brandon Z. Moore
| distributor = Epic Records
| genre = Hip hop
| country = United States
| location = Compton, California
| url = {{URL|4hunnid.com}}
}}
When YG originally came up with the idea for a label (originally titled Pushaz Ink, stylized as Pu$haz Ink), he later attempted to co-found it with DJ Mustard and Ty Dolla $ign.{{cite web|last=Balfour |first=Jay |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.27886/title.yg-details-work-with-dj-mustard-on-snoop-dogg-s-ggn |title=YG Details Work With DJ Mustard On Snoop Dogg's GGN | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=HipHop DX |date=March 9, 2014 |access-date=March 14, 2014}} Originally the "label" was used as a promotional tool and a brand for YG and DJ Mustard's group of rap collaborators they had grown up with. But as they moved forward in laying the groundwork for the label and its roster, plans for the label were scrapped when their meeting with Capitol failed and the three artists decided to go their separate ways.{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7468479/yg-4hunnid-records-interscope-multi-million-dollar-joint-venture|title=YG & 4Hunnid Records Sign Joint Venture With Interscope: Exclusive|website=Billboard.com}}
There were rumors throughout 2016 that YG would be launching a new label under the name 4Hunnid. They originally begun when YG released a fashion line prominently featuring the 4Hunnid logo. This was confirmed to be true on August 17, 2016, when Billboard magazine reported that YG signed a distribution deal for the label under the 4Hunnid name with Interscope Records and Empire Distribution. The name is a reference to the 400 block of West Spruce Street in Compton, CA, where he grew up.{{cite web |last1=Rosecrans Vic |title=THE NEIGHBOURHOOD & YG "DANGEROUS" |url=https://rosecransave.com/2014/11/30/the-neighbourhood-yg-dangerous/ |website=Rosecrans Avenue |date=December 2014 |access-date=24 May 2023}}{{cite web |title=YG -- BPT Lyrics |url=https://genius.com/2925410 |website=Genius |access-date=24 May 2023}}
Personal life
YG has two daughters from a previous relationship named Harmony and Vibe, born May 2015 and May 2019, respectively. YG is a member of the Compton-based Westside Tree Top Piru gang.{{cite web|url=http://the-source.com/2014/02/20/10-things-you-should-know-about-ygs-debut-album-my-krazy-life/6/ |title=10 Things You Should Know About YG's Debut Album, 'My Krazy Life' |publisher=TheSource |date=February 20, 2014 |access-date=March 14, 2014}}{{cite web|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/508623/rapper-yg-talks-snoop-dogg-collaboration-upcoming-movie-more |title=Rapper YG Talks Snoop Dogg Collaboration, Upcoming Movie & More |magazine=Billboard |date=January 26, 2012 |access-date=March 14, 2014}} On January 25, 2012, shots were fired during the filming of YG's music video "I'm a Thug". The police shut down and closed the set.{{cite web|url=http://the-source.com/2014/02/20/10-things-you-should-know-about-ygs-debut-album-my-krazy-life/6/ |title=10 Things You Should Know About YG's Debut Album, 'My Krazy Life' |publisher=The Source|date=February 20, 2014 |access-date=March 14, 2014}} {{dead link|date=September 2015}}
On June 12, 2015, YG was shot in the hip at a recording studio in Studio City, California, resulting in three separate wounds in his hip.{{cite web |last1=Bacher |first1=Danielle |title=YG Speaks Out for First Time Since Being Shot |url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6605861/yg-speaks-out-since-being-shot |magazine=Billboard |access-date=March 7, 2020 |date=June 24, 2015}}{{cite web|url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2015/06/12/yg-shot-in-los-angeles/ |title=YG Shot In Los Angeles |website=BallerStatus.com |date=June 12, 2015}} Authorities said that YG was "very uncooperative" when asked about the incident. His manager later revealed that his injuries were not life-threatening and said he was "fine" and recovering.[http://ktla.com/2015/06/12/rapper-yg-fine-after-being-shot-3-times-manager-says/ Rapper YG ‘Fine’ After Being Shot 3 Times, Manager Says]. KTLA (June 12, 2015). Retrieved on April 24, 2016. He returned to the studio the next day.{{cite web|url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/5-influential-rappers-that-broke-the-mental-health_us_57896a66e4b0e7c873500ec7 |title=5 Influential Rappers That Broke The Mental Health Stigma |date=July 27, 2016 |work=The Huffington Post }}
On September 6, 2019, it was confirmed that he and singer Kehlani were dating.{{cite web|url=https://www.thefader.com/2019/09/06/kehlani-yg-dating|title=Kehlani and YG confirm they are dating|publisher=The Fader|date=September 6, 2019|access-date=September 14, 2019|last=Renshaw|first=David}} As of 2023, YG was dating rapper Saweetie.{{Cite web |title=Kehlani Opens Up About Her Ex YG's Relationship With Saweetie |url=https://www.bet.com/article/femp5e/kehlani-opens-up-about-her-ex-ygs-relationship-with-saweetie |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=BET |language=en}}
YG is a notable fan of the Los Angeles Rams NFL team,{{cite web | last=Mendez | first=Marisa | title=YG Takes Tour Of New $5B Los Angeles Rams NFL Stadium | website=HipHopDX | date=September 3, 2020 | url=https://hiphopdx.com/news/id.57680/title.yg-takes-tour-of-5b-los-angeles-rams-new-nfl-stadium | access-date=September 17, 2021}} and was known to have befriended then-running back Todd Gurley.{{cite web|url= https://thesource.com/2018/11/14/yg-gifts-todd-gurley-of-the-rams-a-diamond-4hunnid-chain/|title= The Source |YG Gifts Todd Gurley of the Rams a Diamond '4Hunnid' Chain|date= November 14, 2018}} He was frequently spotted wearing a Rams home jersey in several video shoots and at several Rams’ home games, including one instance during the 2017 season against the Houston Texans in which Rams’ receiver Robert Woods caught a touchdown and jumped onto the table in the back of the endzone to celebrate alongside YG.{{cite web|url= https://www.nfl.com/videos/rapper-yg-receives-touchdown-ball-from-robert-woods-263358|title= Rapper YG receives touchdown ball from Robert Woods|website= NFL.com}}
On March 28, 2025, YG released a single called "2004" featuring Buddy and The Gang, in which he opened up about having been raped and taken advantage of sexually by an older woman when he was a minor.{{Cite web |last=Price |first=Joe |date=March 28, 2025 |title=YG Opens Up About Childhood Sexual Abuse in New Song '2004' |url=https://www.complex.com/music/a/backwoodsaltar/yg-opens-up-childhood-sexual-abuse-new-song-2004 |access-date=March 30, 2025 |website=Complex}}
Legal issues
In 2019, a Cadillac Escalade owned by YG was involved in a shooting and police chase from Compton to Inglewood, California.{{Cite web |last=Haffenden |first=Dayna |title=YG reportedly owns the vehicle involved in Compton shooting |url=https://www.revolt.tv/article/2019-07-05/93210/yg-reportedly-owns-the-vehicle-involved-in-compton-shooting |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=REVOLT}}{{Cite web |title=Rapper YG is registered owner of SUV involved in shootout, chase from Compton to Inglewood |url=https://abc7.com/compton-shooting-kg-suv-news-yg-hot-ones/5378214/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=ABC7 Los Angeles |language=en}}
In January 2020, YG was arrested at his Southern California home on robbery charges. He was set to perform a Nipsey Hussle tribute at the Grammys several days before the arrest.{{Cite magazine |last=Blistein |first=Jon |date=2020-01-24 |title=YG Arrested on Robbery Charges Days Before Grammys Performance |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/yg-arrest-robbery-grammy-awards-942630/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |magazine=Rolling Stone |language=en-US}} He was held on $250,000 bail at the Men's Central Jail for arraignment on January 28, 2020.[https://www.cnn.com/2020/01/24/entertainment/yg-arrested/index.html YG arrested on robbery charges after Los Angeles home raid] Marianne Garvey and Stella Chan, CNN, January 24, 2020 Charges against YG were ultimately not filed.{{Cite magazine |last=Dillon |first=Nancy |date=2022-05-09 |title=YG Felony Robbery Case Dismissed in Vegas After Civil Settlement |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/yg-felony-robbery-case-dismissed-in-vegas-1350779/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |magazine=Rolling Stone |language=en-US}}
A 2018 robbery case against YG was dismissed in 2022 after he settled with a man who alleged that the rapper stole a chain from him in a Las Vegas casino. The chain was worth between $3,000-$9,000.
In October 2024, he was arrested for driving under the influence.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-02 |title=Rapper YG arrested on suspicion of DUI in Burbank after hitting curb with Lamborghini, police say |url=https://abc7.com/post/rapper-yg-arrested-suspicion-dui-burbank-after-hitting-curb-lamborghini-police-say/15384155/ |access-date=2024-12-09 |website=ABC7 Los Angeles |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=McDonald |first=Sandra |date=October 1, 2024 |title=Rapper YG arrested on suspicion of DUI after hitting a Burbank curb with his red Lambo, police say |url=https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-10-01/rapper-yg-arrested-suspicion-dui-burbank |access-date=December 8, 2024 |website=Los Angeles Times}}
Discography
{{main|YG discography}}
Studio albums
- My Krazy Life (2014)
- Still Brazy (2016)
- Stay Dangerous (2018)
- 4Real 4Real (2019)
- My Life 4Hunnid (2020)
- I Got Issues (2022)
- Just Re'd Up 3 (2024)
Collaborative albums
- Kommunity Service (with Mozzy) (2021)
- Hit Me When U Leave the Klub: The Playlist (with Tyga) (2023)
Filmography
| class="wikitable"
|+ Films and television | |||
| Year | Title | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| rowspan="3"| 2012 | We the Party | C.C. | Support role |
| Mac & Devin Go to High School | Student/Smoker | Cameo | |
| White T | YG | Performer | |
| 2014 | Blame It On the Streets | YG | Main role; also executive producer and writer |
| 2018 | White Boy Rick | Leo Curry | Support role |
| 2020 | Dave | Himself | |
| 2021
| The Demi Lovato Show | Himself | |||
| 2022
| Party Cameo | |
Tours
;Headlining
- Fuck Donald Trump Tour (2016){{Cite web|url=https://www.thefader.com/2016/08/16/yg-fuck-donald-trump-tour|title=YG Announces Fuck Donald Trump Tour Dates|website=The FADER|language=en|access-date=September 30, 2019}}
- Stay Dangerous Tour (2019){{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/8485187/yg-tour-dates|title=YG Announces North American Leg Of 'Stay Dangerous' Tour: See the Dates|magazine=Billboard|access-date=September 20, 2019}}
;Supporting
- Drake vs. Lil Wayne {{small| (with Drake & Lil Wayne)}} (2014){{Cite web|url=https://theurbandaily.cassiuslife.com/2961415/yg-joins-drake-vs-lil-wayne-tour/|title=YG Joins 'Drake vs. Lil Wayne' Tour|date=September 13, 2014|website=The Urban Daily|language=en|access-date=September 30, 2019}}
- Forest Hills Drive Tour {{small| (with J.Cole)}} (2015){{Cite web|url=https://www.rap-up.com/2015/02/23/j-cole-announces-forest-hills-drive-tour-big-sean-jhene-aiko-pusha-t-yg/|title=J. Cole Announces 'Forest Hills Drive Tour' with Big Sean, Jhené Aiko, Pusha T, & YG|website=Rap-Up|language=en-US|access-date=September 30, 2019}}
- Endless Summer Tour {{small| (with G-Eazy & Logic)}} (2016){{Cite web|url=https://www.rap-up.com/2016/04/12/g-eazy-logic-yg-yo-gotti-the-endless-summer-tour-dates/|title=G-Eazy, Logic, YG, & Yo Gotti Announce 'The Endless Summer Tour'|website=Rap-Up|language=en-US|access-date=September 30, 2019}}
- The Damn Tour {{small| (with Kendrick Lamar)}} (2017){{Cite magazine|url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/hip-hop/7793199/kendrick-lamar-extends-damn-tour-adds-yg|title=Kendrick Lamar Extends DAMN. Tour, Adds YG to Lineup|magazine=Billboard|access-date=September 30, 2019}}
- Legendary Nights Tour {{small| (with Meek Mill & Future)}} (2019){{Cite web|url=https://tidal.com/LegendaryNights|title=Legendary Nights|website=TIDAL - High Fidelity Music Streaming|language=en-US|access-date=September 20, 2019}}
Awards and nominations
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{cc}}
{{Wikiquote}}
- {{allmusic}}
- {{IMDb name}}
{{YG}}
{{Def Jam Recordings|CEO=Steve Bartels|Founded=1984, New York City, NY}}
{{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Yg}}
Category:African-American businesspeople
Category:African-American male rappers
Category:African-American–Asian-American relations
Category:American music industry executives
Category:American shooting survivors
Category:Businesspeople from Los Angeles
Category:Def Jam Recordings artists
Category:West Coast hip-hop musicians
Category:Rappers from Compton, California
Category:Rappers from Los Angeles
Category:21st-century American rappers