Artist Julius Dubose, born on December 6, 1995, in the Highbridge neighborhood of the Bronx, New York, is professionally known as A Boogie wit da Hoodie. His stage name is a combination of his nickname "A Boogie," inspired by the character Ace Boogie from the film "Paid in Full," and the fact that he frequently wore hoodies. He began rapping at the age of twelve, drawing inspiration from artists like Kanye West and 50 Cent. After facing legal troubles as a teenager, he moved to Florida, where he was under house arrest and began to focus seriously on his music.
Career Beginnings
In 2015, Dubose returned to New York to pursue a full-time music career. He, along with Don Q and others, established the Highbridge the Label. In February 2016, he released his debut mixtape, "Artist," which was recorded during a difficult breakup and helped shape his future sound. This project gained significant attention and led to him opening for Drake and Future on their Summer Sixteen Tour. In July 2016, he signed a record deal with Atlantic Records.
Rise to Fame
A Boogie's breakthrough came with his 2017 debut studio album, "The Bigger Artist," which peaked at number four on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured the hit single "Drowning" featuring Kodak Black. In 2018, he won Best New Artist at the BET Awards. His sophomore album, "Hoodie SZN" (2018), became his first to top the Billboard 200 chart. This was followed by "Artist 2.0" (2020), which debuted at number two. His subsequent albums include "Me vs. Myself" (2022) and "Better Off Alone" (2024).
Musical Style
A Boogie wit da Hoodie's music is characterized by its blend of East Coast hip hop and trap with melodic, R&B-influenced flows. His lyrics often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and street life. He is known for his nonchalant delivery and memorable hooks.
Discography
Studio Albums
- The Bigger Artist (2017)
- Hoodie SZN (2018)
- Artist 2.0 (2020)
- Me vs. Myself (2022)
- Better Off Alone (2024)
Mixtapes and EPs
His early work includes the "Artist" mixtape (2016) which was pivotal in launching his career. He also released the EP "TBA" in 2016, which stands for "The Bigger Artist". In 2023, he released an EP titled "B4 BOA" as a precursor to his fifth studio album.