Warren Mayes: The First New Orleans Rapper With a Major Deal With Atlantic

Warren Mayes stands as one of the true pioneers of New Orleans hip-hop, remembered not just for his talent but for blazing a trail no one had walked before. As the first rapper from New Orleans to sign a major record deal—with Atlantic Records—Mayes played an instrumental role in shaping the city’s rap identity during a time when the South had yet to be recognized as a serious force in hip-hop.

Raised in the 9th ward but made his name in the 4th Ward’s Iberville Projects alongside eight siblings, Warren Mayes was immersed in a world of raw rhythm and cultural richness. He came up during an era before bounce music exploded and long before Cash Money and No Limit Records became household names. Mayes’ sound was both polished and gritty—bridging the gap between the streets of New Orleans and the mainstream.

Before the city had a well-defined hip-hop sound, Mayes was creating music that turned heads far beyond Louisiana. His early work, including his debut “Doin Them Right”, was self-produced yet sonically on par with East Coast productions, leading many to assume he hailed from New York. Alongside fellow local legend Sporty T, Mayes helped put New Orleans rap on the map with authenticity and hustle.

His defining moment came with the release of “Get It Girl”, a track that became an undeniable anthem in the city. DJ Captain Charles recalls being handed the cassette directly from Mayes—a moment that would change the local music scene. The song's debut during a community event at A.L. Davis Park caused an eruption of excitement, confirming Mayes’ status as a local star and catching the attention of Atlantic Records.

But Warren Mayes wasn’t just a rapper. He was a true entrepreneur—show promoter, producer, and businessman. His daughter, known as G Baby, remembers her father not just as a music icon but as a multi-faceted visionary who never stopped pushing boundaries.

Tragically, Warren Mayes' life was cut short on July 31, 1999, when he was shot and killed while leaving a club. The city mourned the loss of a rising star, but his legacy didn’t end there. G Baby has since stepped into the spotlight, continuing her father’s legacy while shedding light on the man behind the music. Contrary to earlier reports, Mayes was the proud father of 21 children—his influence runs deep both in music and in life.

Warren Mayes will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a visionary who paved the way for generations of New Orleans rappers. From his roots in the Iberville Projects to his groundbreaking deal with Atlantic Records, his story is etched into the foundation of Southern hip-hop history. His legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep love for the culture that shaped him.