YG

From his earliest mixtapes to a decade-long run at the top of the charts, YG has worked with a disciplined, L.A.-rooted intensity. Born Keenon Dequan Ray Jackson, he introduced himself as the “Young Gangsta” with 4Fingaz in 2008 and its follow-up a year later. The latter broke through with “Toot It and Boot It,” a platinum hit that landed at 67 on the Billboard Hot 100. After signing with Def Jam in 2009, he linked with Jeezy’s CTE World in 2013, and his blunt, Mustard-produced anthems found mainstream traction. “My Nigga” climbed to 19, eventually setting up his debut album, My Krazy Life (2014), which peaked at number two and drew strong critical backing.

Crept up in Compton, YG never abandoned his grip. Still Brazy (2016) traded radio polish for a tougher, more socially aware edge, earning acclaim while signalling a leaner commercial stance. The follow-ups — Stay Dangerous (2018), 4Real 4Real (2019), and My Life 4Hunnid (2020) — each entered the top ten of the Billboard 200, powered by the hit “Big Bank” featuring 2 Chainz, Big Sean, and Nicki Minaj. His later output drifted from major-label structure after I Got Issues (2022), his final Def Jam release. Working with Mozzy on Kommunity Service and Tyga on Hit Me When U Leave the Klub, YG proved that even off the majors, he could craft records that hit with both urgency and reflection.

Discography

• My Krazy Life (2014)
• Still Brazy (2016)
• Stay Dangerous (2018)
• 4Real 4Real (2019)
• My Life 4Hunnid (2020)
• I Got Issues (2022)