21 Savage

Shéyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, known professionally as 21 Savage, was born in London, England, and raised on the Eastside of Atlanta. He began his recording career in 2013, releasing three independent mixtapes that garnered regional attention. Following the death of a friend in a shootout on his 21st birthday, Abraham-Joseph began rapping, a pivotal moment that influenced both his stage name and the candid style that characterizes his work in hip-hop and trap music.

His mixtape "The Slaughter Tape" established his presence in the Atlanta rap scene. Abraham-Joseph gained national recognition when he was named to the XXL Freshman Class. His collaboration with Metro Boomin on the EP "Savage Mode" produced hits such as "X" and "No Heart," propelling him to mainstream success. After signing with Epic Records, his debut studio album, "Issa Album," debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200. He was featured on Post Malone's single "Rockstar," which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified Diamond by the RIAA.

Abraham-Joseph's second studio album, "I Am > I Was," debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and included the single "A Lot" featuring J. Cole, which won Best Rap Song at the Grammy Awards. He continued his chart success with "Savage Mode II," another collaboration with Metro Boomin, which also debuted at number one and produced top-ten singles "Runnin" and "Mr. Right Now" featuring Drake. He appeared on Drake's single "Jimmy Cooks," which debuted atop the Hot 100, and the collaborative album "Her Loss" with Drake became his third project to top the Billboard 200. His third album, "American Dream," became his fourth consecutive chart-topping project, producing the Billboard Hot 100 top-ten songs "Redrum" and "Née-Nah."

Abraham-Joseph's personal life drew national attention when he was arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which revealed his status as a British citizen who had overstayed an H-4 visa. The incident sparked widespread discussion about immigration policy and identity, with public demonstrations and a significant petition campaign advocating for his release. After a lengthy legal process, Abraham-Joseph became a lawful permanent resident of the United States, with his immigration court proceedings terminated and his ability to travel internationally restored.

A two-time Grammy nominee, Abraham-Joseph's lyrics often reflect the traumas of his past, contributing to his reputation for authenticity within the hip-hop community. Beyond music, he is active in philanthropy, particularly in Atlanta, supporting programs for underprivileged youth. He launched the 21 Savage Bank Account Campaign to teach financial management to children and hosts the annual "Issa Back to School Drive," providing free haircuts, supplies, and uniforms. He also introduced a free online financial literacy program for young people, partnering with Atlanta's mayor to distribute tablets and WiFi to underserved students. His Leading By Example Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, leads his charitable initiatives.

With a catalog of over 90 million RIAA-certified units, Abraham-Joseph is recognized as a significant figure in Atlanta trap music and as an advocate for the communities that influenced his career.