DaBaby
Biography
Jonathan Lyndale Kirk, known professionally as DaBaby, is an American rapper born on December 22, 1991, in Cleveland, Ohio. He moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of six and spent most of his early years there. After graduating from high school in 2010, he attended the University of North Carolina at Greensboro for two years before deciding to pursue a music career. Growing up, he was influenced by artists like Eminem, 50 Cent, and Lil Wayne.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
DaBaby, initially known as Baby Jesus, began his rap career in 2014, releasing several mixtapes between 2014 and 2018. His debut mixtape, "NonFiction," was released in 2015. He gained significant attention after signing with the North Carolina-based record label South Coast Music Group, which led to a joint deal with Interscope Records in 2019.
His debut studio album, "Baby on Baby" (2019), featured the breakthrough single "Suge," which peaked in the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 and earned him two Grammy nominations. This success was followed by his inclusion in XXL's 2019 Freshman Class. Throughout 2019, he was featured on several hit songs, including Megan Thee Stallion's "Cash Shit" and Post Malone's "Enemies."
Studio Albums and Continued Success
"Kirk" (2019)
In September 2019, DaBaby released his second studio album, "Kirk," which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album, named after his last name, was a tribute to his late father and included successful singles like "Intro" and "Bop." The emotional track "Intro" touches on his father's passing and his rise to fame.
"Blame It on Baby" (2020)
His third album, "Blame It on Baby," released in April 2020, also debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, becoming his second chart-topping album. It featured his highest-charting single, "Rockstar," with Roddy Ricch, which spent seven non-consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The song also earned a Grammy nomination for Record of the Year. In the same year, he was featured on the hit remixes of Jack Harlow's "Whats Poppin" and Dua Lipa's "Levitating."
Later Releases
Following his mainstream success, DaBaby released the EP "My Brother's Keeper (Long Live G)" in November 2020. He continued to release music, including a collaborative mixtape with YoungBoy Never Broke Again titled "Better than You" in 2022 and his fourth studio album, "Baby on Baby 2," later that year.
Musical Style
DaBaby is known for his Southern hip hop and trap style, characterized by a rapid-fire, energetic flow and often humorous, unapologetic lyrics. His music typically features strong, bouncy beats. While some critics have noted a repetitive formula in his sound, his energetic delivery and confident swagger have remained a consistent and successful part of his artistic identity.
Legal Issues and Controversies
DaBaby's career has been marked by several legal issues and controversies. In November 2018, he was involved in a fatal shooting at a Walmart in North Carolina, which he stated was in self-defense. The most serious charges were dropped, and he pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor weapons charge. He has also faced charges of battery and has been involved in public altercations. In 2021, he faced significant backlash for making homophobic remarks during a performance at the Rolling Loud festival.