Fat Pat

Patrick Lamark Hawkins, known by his stage name Fat Pat, was born on December 4, 1970, in Houston, Texas. He was a key member of the Houston-based rap group Screwed Up Click, which was led by the renowned DJ Screw. Fat Pat’s flows were an essential part of the “chopped and screwed” style, a technique pioneered by DJ Screw.

Although Fat Pat’s life was tragically cut short in 1998, his influence on Houston’s rap scene is undeniable. His posthumously released debut album, “Ghetto Dreams,” is widely regarded as a Houston classic. Fat Pat’s distinctive style and lyricism continue to inspire countless rappers today, cementing his legacy as a cornerstone of Houston’s hip-hop history.

Ganksta N-I-P

Ganksta N-I-P, born Arnell Hill on April 1, 1969, in Houston, Texas, is a rapper known for his hardcore, horror-themed lyrics, a style often referred to as horrorcore. N-I-P was a member of the South Park Coalition (S.P.C.), a collective of Houston rappers led by K-Rino, and his debut album “The South Park Psycho” (1992) is a cornerstone of this subgenre.

Despite the controversial nature of his lyrics, Ganksta N-I-P’s place in Houston’s rap history is solid. His horrorcore style, while not for everyone, showcases the breadth and diversity of the Houston rap scene. Even decades after his debut, his impact on the horrorcore subgenre continues to be felt and celebrated.

Gemini (rapper)

Christopher Barriere, known as Big Gemini or simply Gemini, was born on May 3, 1980, in Dallas, Texas, and later made a significant impact on the Houston rap scene. His bilingual lyrics in English and Spanish and his blend of hip-hop and R&B have made him a notable figure in the Southern hip-hop scene.

Gemini’s most famous single, “Hypnotized,” achieved nationwide success, reaching number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. His discography reveals his ability to blend meaningful lyrics with catchy hooks, and his fusion of various musical styles gives him a unique place in the broader landscape of Texas hip-hop.

Geto Boys

Geto Boys, originating from Houston, Texas, is one of the first rap groups to make it big out of the Southern United States in the late 1980s. The group was made up of Bushwick Bill, Scarface, and Willie D. The Geto Boys are known for their hard-hitting style and explicit lyrics covering hard issues such as mental health, poverty, violence, and racism.

Their biggest commercial success came with the 1991 album “We Can’t Be Stopped,” which featured the haunting hit single “Mind Playing Tricks on Me.” This track demonstrated the group’s storytelling skills and their ability to weave intricate narratives about the complexities of life in Houston’s inner city. Despite enduring numerous line-up changes and controversies, Geto Boys remain one of the most influential groups in hip-hop history.

Hyro the Hero

Hyro the Hero, born Hyron Fenton on July 18, 1989, in Houston, Texas, is known for his fusion of rap and rock music. Hyro the Hero’s unique sound combines the raw power of rock with the lyrical finesse of rap, creating a dynamic musical style that sets him apart from many of his peers.

Hyro’s breakout album, “Birth, School, Work, Death,” showcases his skill in blending genres. His music tells compelling stories about overcoming adversity and striving for success, resonating with a wide audience. With his powerful voice and energetic performances, Hyro the Hero represents a unique facet of Houston’s diverse music scene.

Juan Gotti

Juan Ramos, known by his stage name Juan Gotti, was born on May 8, 1971, in Houston, Texas. Known for his Mexican gangster rap style, Juan Gotti was the first Mexican rapper signed to Dope House Records, a label founded by South Park Mexican.

Gotti’s music blends traditional Mexican music with modern hip-hop, representing the experiences of Mexican-Americans in the US. His lyrics often discuss the struggles and triumphs of life in the barrio, offering a unique perspective within the rap genre. His album “No Sett Trippin'” was nominated for a Latin Grammy in 2005, solidifying his influence and impact in the Houston rap scene and beyond.

Kirko Bangz

Kirk Jerel Randle, popularly known as Kirko Bangz, was born on August 20, 1989, in Houston, Texas. He gained significant attention in the hip-hop scene with his 2011 hit single “Drank in My Cup,” which peaked at number 28 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Bangz’s music is characterized by his smooth flow and catchy hooks, often drawing upon his experiences growing up in Houston. His lyrical content often covers themes of ambition, struggle, and celebration. With several mixtapes and albums to his name, Bangz has solidified his position as a noteworthy figure in the Houston rap scene.

Lecrae

Lecrae Devaughn Moore, known professionally as Lecrae, was born on October 9, 1979, in Houston, Texas. He is an influential figure in the Christian hip-hop scene, with his music often reflecting his faith and addressing themes of spirituality and personal struggle.

Lecrae has made a significant impact in the music industry, with his 2014 album “Anomaly” debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, a first for a Christian hip-hop artist. Lecrae’s success has helped bring Christian hip-hop into the mainstream and inspire a new generation of artists in this subgenre. His lyrical ability, combined with his efforts to address significant social issues, has earned him respect within and outside the Christian music community.

Lil’ Flip

Wesley Eric Weston Jr., better known by his stage name Lil’ Flip, was born on March 3, 1981, in Houston, Texas. Lil’ Flip, also known as “The Freestyle King,” made a significant impact on Houston’s rap scene with his trademark double time flow and freestyle skills.

His second album, “Undaground Legend,” gained national attention and went platinum. This was followed by the double-disc album “U Gotta Feel Me,” which further solidified his place in hip-hop. Lil’ Flip’s music, characterized by its Southern charm and catchy hooks, played a crucial role in bringing Houston’s hip-hop scene to national attention in the early 2000s.

Lil’ Keke

Marcus Lakee Edwards, also known as Lil’ Keke, was born on March 31, 1976, in Houston, Texas. As a member of the hip-hop collective Screwed Up Click and a protégé of DJ Screw, Lil’ Keke played a significant role in popularizing the chopped and screwed DJ technique characteristic of the Houston rap scene.

Lil’ Keke’s debut album, “Don’t Mess Wit Texas,” featured the hit single “Southside,” which has since become an anthem for Houston. His music often captures the spirit of Houston’s hip-hop culture, reflecting themes of urban life, struggle, and perseverance. With a discography spanning over two decades, Lil’ Keke remains a significant figure in Houston’s rap history.

Lil’ O

Ore Magnus Lawson, better known by his stage name Lil’ O, was born on November 22, 1977, in Lagos, Nigeria, before moving to Houston, Texas. As a member of the Screwed Up Click, Lil’ O contributed to the development of the distinct Houston hip-hop sound.

His debut album, “Blood Money,” established his reputation as a Houston rapper, and his 2001 hit single “Back Back” gained nationwide attention. Lil’ O’s music often reflects the challenges and triumphs of life in Houston’s urban neighborhoods, with his energetic style and charismatic presence earning him a loyal fanbase.

Lil’ Troy

Troy Lane Birklett, known by his stage name Lil’ Troy, was born on February 24, 1966, in Houston, Texas. His biggest hit, “Wanna Be a Baller,” remains one of the most iconic Houston rap songs of all time.

Lil’ Troy’s music, characterized by its catchy hooks and Southern swagger, helped bring the Houston rap scene to national attention in the late ’90s. Despite legal troubles that affected his career, Lil’ Troy remains a significant figure in Houston rap, his music offering snapshots of the city’s vibrant and complex urban culture.

Lucky Luciano (rapper)

Christian Anthony Garcia, better known by his stage name Lucky Luciano, was born on December 18, 1981, in Houston, Texas. Luciano gained significant recognition for his role in the Texas hip-hop scene, particularly within the Latino community.

Known for his high-energy flow and dedication to his Houston roots, Luciano has remained a mainstay in the local scene for years. His lyrical content often depicts street life in Houston, combined with themes of struggle and ambition. This genuine portrayal has earned him a devoted fan base and solidified his status as an influential figure in Houston’s rap scene.

Maxo Kream

Emekwanem Ogugua Biosah Jr., known professionally as Maxo Kream, was born on March 29, 1990, in Houston, Texas. He emerged on the Houston rap scene in the early 2010s, gaining traction with his vivid storytelling and deep, laid-back voice.

Maxo’s music often explores gritty themes, including his experiences with street life, drugs, and violence. Despite the heavy topics, his lyrical skill, dark humor, and detailed storytelling have won him critical acclaim. His 2019 album “Brandon Banks,” a reflection on his relationship with his father, further underscored his ability to turn personal experience into engaging rap narratives.

Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Jovon Ruth Pete, known professionally as Megan Thee Stallion, was born on February 15, 1995, in Houston, Texas. She has quickly risen to global fame, becoming one of the most prominent female rappers of her generation.

Megan Thee Stallion’s music is characterized by her fiery flow, confident lyrics, and a blend of Houston’s hip-hop traditions with modern-day trap influences. With her breakout single “Big Ole Freak” and subsequent hits like “Savage” and “Body,” she has garnered several accolades and has become an influential figure in the music industry. Her empowering lyrics and unapologetic personality have made her a cultural icon and a leading voice in the fight for women’s rights in the music industry.

Mike Jones (rapper)

Michael Jones, professionally known as Mike Jones, was born on January 6, 1981, in Houston, Texas. His breakout album “Who is Mike Jones?” catapulted him to national recognition and established him as a notable figure in the Houston rap scene.

Jones’ unique approach to self-promotion, which included handing out shirts with his phone number on them, set him apart from his contemporaries. His music, characterized by its catchy hooks and relatable themes, has left a significant impact on the genre. While his career has seen ups and downs, Mike Jones continues to represent Houston in the hip-hop community with his unmistakable style.

Mr. Mike

Michael Walls, known by his stage name Mr. Mike, was born on November 26, 1972, in Houston, Texas. He first gained recognition as part of the hip hop duo South Circle with Thorough.

Mr. Mike’s gritty lyrics and haunting storytelling established him as a force within the Southern rap scene. His debut solo album, “Wicked Wayz,” went on to achieve gold certification. Often exploring dark and controversial themes, Mr. Mike’s contribution to the Houston rap scene has been considerable, influencing the next generation of Southern rappers with his distinctive style.

OG Ron C

Ronald Rummell Coleman, better known as OG Ron C, was born on August 3, 1973, in Houston, Texas. As a DJ, mixtape producer, and one of the co-founders of Swishahouse Records, he has significantly contributed to the development of Houston’s chopped and screwed hip-hop subculture.

OG Ron C’s mixes, characterized by slowing down and chopping the music to create a hypnotic effect, have influenced numerous Houston rappers. Known for his distinctive style and dedication to the Houston music scene, OG Ron C has left a lasting impact on the evolution of Houston hip-hop, perpetuating the unique style of DJ Screw and bringing it to a wider audience.

O.G. Style

Eric Woods, known by his stage name O.G. Style, was born on March 10, 1970, and raised in Houston, Texas. He was an American rapper who was active in the late 80s and early 90s, best known for his album “I Know How to Play ‘Em”.

O.G. Style was characterized by his smooth flow and lyrical skills, delivering rhymes with precision and fluency. His music often focused on life in the streets, speaking about the realities of Houston’s urban life. He left an indelible mark on the Houston rap scene and remains a respected figure in the city’s hip-hop history.

Paul Wall

Paul Michael Slayton, better known by his stage name Paul Wall, was born on March 11, 1981, in Houston, Texas. He’s known for his Southern rap style and his contributions to Houston’s chopped and screwed sound.

Paul Wall has achieved significant recognition for his distinct style and devotion to his Houston roots. He came into prominence in the mid-2000s with his successful album “The Peoples Champ”. Not only is Wall’s music appreciated, but he’s also a reputable figure in the community for his engagement in various philanthropic efforts.

Pimp C

Chad Lamont Butler, better known by his stage name Pimp C, was born on December 29, 1973, in Port Arthur, Texas. He was one half of the influential hip hop duo UGK along with Bun B, significantly contributing to the Houston hip hop scene.

Pimp C was known for his distinctive Southern drawl and laid-back rhyming style. His music often explored life on the streets, combined with themes of struggle and ambition. This genuine portrayal earned him a devoted fanbase and solidified his status as a figurehead in the Southern hip-hop scene. His legacy continues to inspire a new generation of rappers.

Riff Raff (rapper)

Horst Christian Simco, better known by his stage name Riff Raff, was born on January 29, 1982, in Houston, Texas. He first came to prominence on MTV’s reality show “From G’s to Gents” and has since made a name for himself in the music industry.

Riff Raff’s music is as eclectic and unique as his personality. His flamboyant style and outrageous lyrics have garnered attention from critics and fans alike, leading to collaborations with major artists like Snoop Dogg and Diplo. Although some question his seriousness, there’s no denying the impact he’s made on the Houston rap scene.

Sauce Walka

Albert Walker Mondane, known by his stage name Sauce Walka, was born on June 29, 1990, in Houston, Texas. He is known for his high-energy delivery and vibrant personality, which have set him apart in the Houston rap scene.

As a member of the Sauce Twinz, Sauce Walka gained recognition for his unique style and innovative approach to hip hop. His music blends traditional Southern hip hop with contemporary trends, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Walka’s individuality and creativity have solidified his status as a key figure in the Houston music industry.

SaulPaul

Adam SaulPaul Hurst, known professionally as SaulPaul, was born on November 3, 1981, in Houston, Texas. He is not only a rapper but also a motivational speaker who has dedicated his life to positive change through music.

SaulPaul’s music is characterized by its uplifting and inspiring messages. After a troubled youth, SaulPaul turned his life around and now uses his experiences to influence others positively. His motivational speeches have reached audiences nationwide, proving that music can truly make a difference. SaulPaul’s work has marked him as a unique figure in the world of Houston rappers.

Scarface (rapper)

Brad Terrence Jordan, better known by his stage name Scarface, was born on November 9, 1970, in Houston, Texas. He rose to fame in the late 1980s as a member of the Geto Boys, a group that played a significant role in putting Houston on the rap map.

Scarface’s gritty, explicit lyrics and his detailed storytelling about life on the streets have made him a legendary figure in Houston’s hip-hop scene and the wider genre of Southern rap. His signature deep and gravelly voice, along with the haunting beats that accompany his tracks, only adds to the intense atmosphere of his music. The rapper’s solo career, which took off in the 1990s, further solidified his status as a key player in the industry.

Screwed Up Click

The Screwed Up Click is not a single rapper, but a group of rappers from Houston, Texas. They were led by DJ Screw, who was born on July 20, 1971, in Smithville, Texas. The members of the group primarily include Big Hawk, Big Moe, Big Pokey, the Botany Boyz, E.S.G., Fat Pat, Lil’ Flip, Lil’ Keke, Lil’ O, Trae tha Truth, and Z-Ro.

The Screwed Up Click played a crucial role in the development of the chopped and screwed DJ technique, which was DJ Screw’s signature style. This unique style, characterized by slowed down beats and drawn-out vocals, has left a significant impact on Houston’s rap scene and has influenced many artists beyond the city. The Screwed Up Click’s music often tells stories about life in Houston, touching on themes of struggle, ambition, and community.

Slim Thug

Stayve Jerome Thomas, known by his stage name Slim Thug, was born on September 8, 1980, in Houston, Texas. He is one of the key players in Houston’s rap scene and has made significant contributions to Southern hip-hop.

Slim Thug’s music is characterized by its laid-back delivery and vivid lyrical content, focusing on the realities of life in Houston. The rapper came into prominence in the early 2000s and quickly gained a strong following with his albums like “Already Platinum”. His influence on the Houston rap scene and his ability to resonate with audiences have solidified his status as a staple in the industry.

South Park Mexican

Carlos Coy, better known by his stage name South Park Mexican, was born on October 5, 1970, in Houston, Texas. South Park Mexican’s music provides a detailed, often harrowing account of life in Houston’s South Park neighborhood, characterized by its mix of grit, realism, and occasional humor.

South Park Mexican rose to prominence in the late 1990s as a prominent voice in Southern rap. Despite his controversial legal issues, his discography continues to be influential in the Houston rap scene, painting vivid pictures of street life, ambition, struggle, and redemption.

The Color Changin’ Click

The Color Changin’ Click is a group that was established in 2001 in Houston, Texas, led by rapper Chamillionaire and his brother Rasaq, along with fellow rappers Paul Wall, 50/50 Twin, and Lew Hawk. They are known for their dynamic style and chameleon-like ability to adapt to various styles and beats.

This group is an essential part of the Houston rap scene for its notable mixtapes, which often feature freestyles over popular beats from the time. The Color Changin’ Click showcases the city’s vibrant, diverse, and ever-evolving hip-hop scene.

Tobe Nwigwe

Tobe Nwigwe was born on March 14, 1987, in Alief, a suburb of Houston, Texas. Nwigwe was a football star in his youth, but an injury redirected his career towards music. He is of Nigerian descent and often intertwines elements of his African heritage with Houston’s rap sound.

Nwigwe’s music stands out for its depth, creativity, and the positivity of its messages. His lyrics often revolve around his experiences, his faith, and his desire to inspire and create a positive impact. Nwigwe has garnered widespread acclaim for his artistic, thought-provoking music videos and his unique approach to promoting his music, especially on social media platforms.

Too Much Trouble

Too Much Trouble, also known as TMT, is a group hailing from Houston, Texas. The group was discovered by legendary rapper Bushwick Bill and consisted of members Ghetto M.C., Bar-None, Drunk-D, and DJ Bad News. The group was formed in the late ’80s, and they are also often referred to as the “Baby Geto Boys.”

Their music is often categorized by its aggressive lyrics and stark depiction of street life. Although they didn’t achieve widespread mainstream success, their raw and unfiltered lyrical content, coupled with their depiction of the gritty side of Houston life, makes them an integral part of Houston’s rap history.

Trae tha Truth

Frazier Othel Thompson III, better known as Trae tha Truth (or simply Trae), was born on July 3, 1980 in Houston, Texas. Trae is a key figure in Houston’s rap scene, known for his deep, raspy voice and his uncompromising lyrics about life in Houston’s impoverished neighborhoods.

In addition to his music, Trae is also a prominent community activist, establishing a holiday known as “Trae Day” in 2008 to help the local community with school supplies and health checks. His musical output is extensive, with numerous albums and mixtapes, often working with other artists both inside and outside Houston, reflecting the respect he has earned within the hip-hop community.

Travis Scott

Jacques Berman Webster II, known as Travis Scott, was born on April 30, 1992 in Houston, Texas. Scott is one of the most successful rappers to emerge from Houston in recent years, known for his innovative style, combining elements of trap and psychedelic music with an atmospheric, somewhat dystopian sound design.

Scott’s albums, like “Rodeo” and “Astroworld”, have achieved commercial and critical success, making him one of the leading figures in contemporary hip-hop. His larger-than-life performances and creative approach to marketing and merchandising have only added to his cultural impact, marking him as one of the key players redefining the boundaries of what a hip-hop artist can be.

Trinity Garden Cartel

Trinity Garden Cartel is a Houston-based hip-hop group founded in the early 90s by members Da Herb Man, D of Trinity Garden Cartel, Icey Hott, and X-Man. Born and bred in the Trinity Garden neighborhood of Houston, their music portrays the grim reality of life in inner-city Houston, infused with potent lyrics and hard-hitting beats.

The Trinity Garden Cartel’s distinct sound and unapologetic lyrics gained them a significant following in Houston’s underground rap scene. Despite experiencing several lineup changes over the years, the group remains an essential part of the city’s hip-hop history, known for their street-centric tales and uncompromising authenticity.

T-Wayne

Tyshon Dwayne Nobles, better known as T-Wayne, was born on October 27, 1990 in Abilene, Texas. He later moved to Houston and emerged on the music scene in 2014 with the hit single “Nasty Freestyle”, which achieved viral fame on the social media platform Vine, leading to mainstream success.

Despite having a relatively small discography, T-Wayne has made an impact in the rap scene, with his signature southern sound and clever wordplay. His rise to fame exemplifies the power of social media in modern music promotion, and he continues to maintain a steady following in the rap community.

UGK

UGK, an acronym for Underground Kingz, was a legendary American hip-hop duo from Port Arthur, Texas. The duo was formed in 1987 by Chad “Pimp C” Butler (who tragically passed away in 2007) and Bernard “Bun B” Freeman. UGK is acclaimed for their southern hip-hop anthems and contribution to the development of the Dirty South style of rap music. They rose to fame in the late ’80s with their first album “The Southern Way.”

UGK became nationally recognized after their collaboration with Jay-Z on the hit single “Big Pimpin’,” and are also known for their chart-topping album “Ridin’ Dirty.” They’ve notably collaborated with fellow Houston rapper Scarface, and their influence on Southern hip hop culture is undeniably profound. Their music is characterized by deep bass, soulful samples, and candid lyrics about life in the South.

Ugly God

Royce Rodriguez, known by his stage name Ugly God, was born on September 19, 1996 in Indiana but later moved to Houston, Texas. He broke onto the scene with his viral hit “Water” in 2016, quickly garnering attention in the hip-hop community for his unconventional style, humorous lyrics, and self-produced beats.

Ugly God’s music blends comedic elements with traditional hip-hop, resulting in a unique sound that is both playful and catchy. Despite his unusual approach, Ugly God’s creativity has been rewarded with a spot on XXL’s 2017 Freshman Class, demonstrating his significant potential in the industry.

Viper (rapper)

Lee Carter, known by his stage name Viper, was born on October 7, 1971, in El Dorado, Arkansas but later moved to Houston, Texas. Viper has become somewhat of an internet phenomenon, known for his highly prolific output and his unusual approach to hip-hop.

Despite not having much mainstream success, Viper has gained a cult following online for his distinctive “cloud rap” style, characterized by ethereal beats and heavy use of autotune. His work ethic is nearly unparalleled in the industry, having released hundreds of albums since his debut.

Willie D

William James Dennis, known as Willie D, was born on November 1, 1966 in Houston, Texas. He’s a vital member of the Geto Boys, a group that put Southern hip-hop on the map. Willie D is known for his aggressive lyrical style and is considered one of the godfathers of gangsta rap.

Aside from his work with the Geto Boys, Willie D has had a successful solo career, tackling social issues with a confrontational style in albums like “Controversy” and “I’m Goin’ Out Lika Soldier.” In addition to his music, Willie D is active in his local community and has used his platform to discuss political and social issues.

Z-Ro

Joseph Wayne McVey IV, known as Z-Ro, was born on January 19, 1977 in Houston, Texas. Known as “The Mo City Don,” Z-Ro is celebrated for his melodic rap style, emotional delivery, and honest lyrics about his struggles with depression and poverty.

Z-Ro’s music embodies the Houston hip-hop scene, with his distinctive combination of singing and rapping over screwed-and-chopped beats, a style known as “Slab Music.” Despite personal challenges and legal troubles, Z-Ro has become one of Houston’s most respected artists, known for his authenticity and his dedication to his craft

Frequently Asked Questions About Houston Rappers

• Who is the biggest rapper in Houston?

Houston has given birth to numerous big names in the rap game, such as Travis Scott, Bun B, and Scarface, to name a few. However, the biggest rapper would be subjective and depend on criteria such as record sales, cultural impact, or current relevance. As of now, Travis Scott is arguably one of the most commercially successful and influential rappers from Houston, gaining international fame and recognition.

• What rappers came out of Houston?

Houston has a rich hip-hop history and has produced a multitude of successful rappers. Some of the most notable include UGK (Bun B and Pimp C), Scarface, Travis Scott, Paul Wall, Slim Thug, Chamillionaire, Z-Ro, and Megan Thee Stallion. These artists, among others, have helped shape the unique Houston rap sound and have made significant contributions to hip-hop as a whole.

• How is Drake related to Houston?

While Drake was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, he has deep connections with Houston, Texas. Early in his career, Drake was mentored by Houston’s own Lil Wayne, and he often credits the city with having a major influence on his music. He’s known for frequently collaborating with Houston artists, sampling Houston music, and throwing annual events in the city such as “Houston Appreciation Weekend.”

• What is Houston rap called?

Houston rap doesn’t have a specific name, but the style is often associated with “chopped and screwed” music, which was pioneered by DJ Screw, a Houston native. This style involves slowing down the tempo of the track and applying techniques like skipping beats and record scratching to create a trippy, laid-back sound. It’s also sometimes referred to as “Slab Music” when it’s specifically combined with melodic hooks and introspective lyrics.

• Who is the most streamed artist in Houston?

As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the most streamed artist from Houston would likely be Travis Scott. His albums have consistently topped the charts, and his singles frequently garner hundreds of millions of streams. His song “SICKO MODE” from the album “Astroworld,” for instance, has amassed over a billion streams on Spotify alone. However, it’s always a good idea to check the most current data as streaming numbers can fluctuate.