Webster Gradney Jr., known to the world as Webbie, is an American rapper who has made a significant impact on the hip hop scene. Born on September 6, 1985, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Webbie has been a prominent figure in Southern hip hop since the early 2000s. Signed to the independent Trill Entertainment label since 2003, his journey from local rapper to national star is a testament to his talent and resilience.
Webbie's early years were marked by hardship. His mother passed away when he was just nine years old, and he was raised by his father and grandmother. Despite these challenges, Webbie found solace in music, writing rhymes from the age of five. Influenced by hardcore rap artists such as Master P, Eightball & MJG, the Geto Boys, and UGK, Webbie developed a passion for Southern hip hop that would shape his career.
Webbie first gained attention with his appearances on Lil Boosie's album For My Thugz in 2001, specifically on the track "Gotta Get It." This collaboration set the stage for future projects with Lil Boosie, including the albums Ghetto Stories (2003) and Gangsta Musik (2004). Songs like "Bad Bitch" and "Swerve" from these albums were featured in the 2005 movie Hustle & Flow, further boosting Webbie's profile.
In 2005, Webbie's solo career took off with the release of his major-label debut album, Savage Life, under Trill
Entertainment and Asylum Records. The album debuted at number eight on the US Billboard 200 chart, driven by the success of the hit single "Gimme That" featuring Bun B. This marked the beginning of Webbie's rise in the hip hop industry.
Webbie continued to build on this success with his second album, Savage Life 2, released in early 2008. The album featured the hit single "Independent" with Lil Boosie and Lil Phat, which became Webbie's most successful song to date. The track peaked at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the Rap Songs chart, cementing Webbie's status as a major player in the hip hop world.
Over the years, Webbie has released several more albums, including Savage Life 3 (2011) and Savage Life 4 (2013). His consistent output and dedication to his craft have earned him a loyal fan base and continued relevance in the industry. In addition to his music career, Webbie has ventured into film. He starred in the independent biographical movie Ghetto Stories (2010) with Lil Boosie, based on their lives and lyrical themes. He also appeared in the 2011 film Video Girl, featuring actress Meagan Good.
Despite the ups and downs of his career, Webbie's influence on Southern hip hop remains undeniable. His journey from the streets of Baton Rouge to national stardom is a story of perseverance and passion. As he continues to make music and explore new ventures, Webbie's legacy as a pioneering artist in the hip hop scene is secure.
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