Cordae Biography
Who is Cordae? A Brief Career Overview
Meet Cordae, the extraordinarily talented rapper and songwriter who's making waves in the music industry with his refreshing lyrical depth and compelling storytelling. Born Cordae Amari Brooks, he formerly went by YBN Cordae and Entendre, standing strong as a defining voice in hip-hop, pop rap, and underground hip hop.
Cordae's rise to prominence began with his debut album, The Lost Boy, released in 2019, which garnered two Grammy nominations, setting the stage for a career characterized by authenticity and intellectual engagement. With lyrics that resonate with the everyday experiences of life, love, and loss, this Maryland native has firmly established himself as a trusted narrator of modern life's complexities. He seamlessly fuses both contemporary and classic hip-hop influences into his work, contributing to the rich tapestry of today's vinyl culture with key releases that vinyl collectors cherish.
Cordae's Early Life and Background
Cordae was born on August 26, 1997, in Raleigh, North Carolina, and moved to Suitland, Maryland at the age of nine. Growing up in a single-parent household, his mother played a pivotal role in shaping his character and musical interests. Among the humble surroundings of public housing, young Cordae found solace in music, especially classic hip-hop, courtesy of his father's record collection. Artists like Nas and Rakim were not just songs to him; they were lessons in storytelling, rhythm, and creative expression.
From an early age, he gravitated toward writing, penning his first rap at just fifteen and embarking on a journey that would later intertwine with his passion for collecting vinyl records. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future artistic endeavors, where the tangible experience of vinyl would become an essential part of his musical journey.
The Musical Influences That Shaped Cordae's Sound
Cordae's sound is a rich blend of influences, seamlessly woven from the threads of Nas, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, and Big L. His admiration for these iconic figures not only shapes his lyrical content but also influences his innovative approach to hip-hop. Their intricate lyricism and powerful message-driven narratives have inspired him to reflect on his own life experiences through music.
The young artist's passion for vinyl is evident in his penchant for collecting albums from these artists, including Nas' Illmatic, which he regards as a quintessential hip-hop album. Each vinyl record in his growing collection serves as a testament to the timeless nature of music and evolution, a recurring theme in Cordae's artistry.
How Cordae Entered the Music Industry
Cordae's music career took off in 2018 after he joined the YBN collective, where his potential quickly became apparent. His first big break as a solo artist came not through traditional means but via a remix of Eminem's classic song, "My Name Is." Following this introduction, he released various tracks that caught the attention of music fans and critics alike.
In 2019, Cordae released his highly anticipated debut studio album, The Lost Boy, which was heralded as a landmark record in his growing career. This album featured tracks that resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing his skillful songwriting and cementing his reputation for authenticity in the hip-hop scene. The album's vinyl release was greeted with enthusiasm, as collectors and fans clamor for quality pressings that encapsulate his raw talent and impactful storytelling.
Cordae's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
The stepping stone to Cordae's mainstream success came in 2019 with The Lost Boy. This critically acclaimed album not only peaked at number 13 on the Billboard 200 but also featured hits like "RNP" and "Bad Idea," which contributed to vinyl sales soaring among collectors. His singles achieved certified gold status, and the hype surrounding his vinyl releases only continued to grow.
A testament to his artistic impact, Cordae was named as part of XXL's "Freshman Class" and garnered multiple award nominations. With high-energy performances at festivals and media appearances on platforms like the Super Bowl, Cordae's prominence in hip-hop became undeniable, leading to greater opportunities and collaborations with industry giants like Eminem and Roddy Ricch.
How Personal Life Shaped Cordae's Music
Cordae's personal experiences significantly influence his artistry; themes of struggle, loss, and perseverance abound in his work. Following the loss of a friend, he channeled grief into artistic expression, evident in the themes of his album, From A Bird's Eye View. It reflects a broader exploration of identity and evolution as a young Black man in America.
His public persona is further enhanced by his commitment to philanthropy and social justice, actively participating in protests and advocating for change. Cordae's high-profile relationship with tennis star Naomi Osaka adds a layer of depth to his public image while demonstrating the multifaceted nature of modern artists. These experiences inform not just his lyrics but also influence visual narratives in his vinyl artwork, elevating each release into a meaningful conversation with his audience.
