Westside Gunn, boo-boo-boom!!
Introduction
Westside Gunn is an American rapper from Buffalo, New York. He is a founder and current member of the hip hop group Hall N’ Nash. He released his debut album, Flygod, in 2016, which was produced by fellow Buffalo friend and producer Mr. Green. The album was met with critical acclaim, and Westside Gunn was subsequently nominated for Best New Artist at the 2017 Grammy Awards.
www.musicwithmoonlight.com
Early Years, Influences, and Shady Records
Westside Gunn’s early career was heavily influenced by Jay-Z, Gang Starr, Nas, Mobb Deep, Big L, M.O.P., and AZ. He was inspired by the success of his younger brother Conway (who is also a rapper) to become involved in hip-hop music himself.
While growing up in Buffalo, Westside Gunn played basketball at The Point School, where he excelled enough at the sport that he received multiple scholarships offers from Division 1 college basketball programs. However, Westside Gunn decided to pursue a career as a rapper instead, much to the dislike of his parents.
In 2009, Westside Gunn and his brother Conway appeared on several songs with rapper Meek Mill: “Them Gunz,” “Amen,” and “On the Regular.” In late 2011, he was featured in a cypher at Hot 97’s Toca Tuesdays alongside Action Bronson, Kool G Rap, Fatman Scoop, and Prodigy. The following year, he was featured in XXL’s Show & Prove section.
In 2012, he released a pair of mixtapes entitled “Hitler Wears Hermes” and “G.I. Jane.” He also began to receive a notable amount of attention from music critics, including being profiled by “Complex Magazine” and named one of their “25 New Rappers to Watch Out For”. In March 2017, he announced that he had signed to Eminem’s record label, Shady Records.
The success of Supreme Blientele
On July 20, 2018, Westside Gunn released his second studio album, Supreme Blientele. The album features guest appearances from Busta Rhymes, Action Bronson, Benny the Butcher, Smoke D.Z.A., and Jadakiss.
Production on the album was handled by Alchemist, 9th Wonder, Daringer, and Griselda Records’ in-house producer, Daringer. It was made available for purchase on iTunes and Spotify, as well as on limited edition vinyl.
Supreme Blientele debuted at number 75 on the Billboard 200 with first-week sales of 4,000 copies in the United States and has received an average score of 83/100 from 7 reviews (indicating “universal acclaim”) on Metacritic.
Being the ‘Most Slept-On’ Rapper
Westside Gunn has been one of the most slept-on rappers in the game. His music is gritty and dark, and he has a unique style that sets him apart from other rappers.
Westside Gunn’s music is a reflection of his life experiences. His lyrics are honest and raw, and he doesn’t shy away from talking about difficult topics. He doesn’t make music for the mainstream audience; he makes music for people who appreciate real hip-hop.
