G-Eazy
Biography
Gerald Earl Gillum, known professionally as G-Eazy, is an American rapper and producer born on May 24, 1989, in Oakland, California. His parents, who are both artists, separated when he was in the first grade, and he was raised by his mother in Berkeley and Oakland. He began making beats as a teenager, attending Berkeley High School where he was inspired by the success of the local hip-hop group, The Pack. After graduating, he moved to New Orleans to attend Loyola University, where he studied music industry studies and continued to hone his craft, releasing several mixtapes.
Career Beginnings
While at Loyola University, G-Eazy started to gain recognition in the East Bay Area's new hip-hop scene, collaborating with artists like Lil B and The Cataracs. Initially a record producer, he began working on his own singles. In 2010, he got the opportunity to open for major artists like Lil Wayne and Snoop Dogg. A significant moment in his early career was the release of his 2011 mixtape "The Endless Summer," which featured a popular remake of the 1961 hit "Runaround Sue."
Major Label Success
G-Eazy's major-label debut album, "These Things Happen," was released in 2014 by RCA Records and peaked at number three on the Billboard 200. The album included the triple-platinum single "I Mean It." His follow-up album, "When It's Dark Out" (2015), achieved similar success and featured the hit single "Me, Myself & I" with Bebe Rexha, which reached number seven on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2017, he released "The Beautiful & Damned," which included his highest-charting single to date, "No Limit," featuring Cardi B and A$AP Rocky, peaking at number four.
Musical Style and Image
G-Eazy is often recognized for his slicked-back hair and leather jacket, earning him the nickname "the James Dean of rap." His music often explores themes of hedonism, conflicted inner turmoil, and ambition. His sound has evolved over the years, incorporating influences from hyphy, southern bounce music, classic rock, and electronic dance music. He has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Britney Spears, Halsey, and Kehlani.
Later Work and Other Ventures
His 2021 album, "These Things Happen Too," saw a commercial decline compared to his previous works. In 2022, he took a hiatus after releasing the song "Angel" as a tribute to his late mother. He returned in 2023 and released the album "Freak Show" in June 2024. Beyond music, G-Eazy has an interest in fashion, having collaborated with brands and been recognized for his style. He also made his acting debut in the 2019 film "Hustlers."
Personal Life
G-Eazy's personal life has been a subject of public interest. He was in a high-profile relationship with singer Halsey from 2017 to 2018. He has also been linked to actress Ashley Benson and model Yasmin Wijnaldum. He has a younger brother, James, who is also a musician. His mother, Suzanne Olmsted, passed away in November 2021.