Westside Gunn

Westside Gunn, born Alvin Lamar Worthy on July 27, 1982, in Buffalo, New York, is an American rapper, fashion designer, and entrepreneur. Emerging from the gritty streets of Buffalo, Westside Gunn has carved out a unique niche in the hip-hop landscape with his distinctive style and unapologetic authenticity. Raised in a musical household, Westside Gunn was exposed to hip-hop at an early age, drawing inspiration from both East Coast legends like Wu-Tang Clan and Nas, as well as Southern pioneers like UGK and Three 6 Mafia. His early experiences navigating the streets of Buffalo, coupled with his love for hip-hop, laid the foundation for his future career in music. In 2012, Westside Gunn co-founded Griselda Records alongside his brother Conway the Machine and cousin Benny the Butcher. Together, they embarked on a mission to bring the raw essence of street rap back to the forefront of hip-hop. With gritty production, vivid storytelling, and razor-sharp lyricism, Westside Gunn quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the underground rap scene.

His breakthrough project, "Flygod" (2016), introduced audiences to his distinctive sound and lyrical prowess. The album received widespread acclaim for its gritty production and unapologetic street narratives, cementing Westside Gunn's status as a rising star in hip-hop. Since then, Westside Gunn has released a string of critically acclaimed projects, including "Supreme Blientele" (2018) and "Pray for Paris" (2020), further solidifying his reputation as one of the most innovative voices in modern rap. His collaborations with acclaimed producers like The Alchemist and Madlib have further expanded his sonic palette, showcasing his versatility and willingness to push artistic boundaries. In addition to his music career, Westside Gunn is also a successful entrepreneur and fashion designer. He founded the fashion brand "Fashion Rebels" and has collaborated with luxury brands like Virgil Abloh's Off-White, further establishing himself as a trendsetter both in and out of the music industry. With his uncompromising vision, entrepreneurial spirit, and undeniable talent, Westside Gunn continues to push the boundaries of hip-hop and inspire a new generation of artists to embrace their authenticity and pursue their dreams. As he continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, his influence on the culture of hip-hop only continues to grow.