Young Jeezy
Encyclopedia
Jay Wayne Jenkins better known by his stage name Young Jeezy, is an American rapper. He is the member of the hip hop group United Streets Dopeboyz of America
(USDA) and a former member of BMF (Black Mafia Family). He began his career in 2001 under an independent label and joined Boyz 'N Da Hood in 2005, the same year his solo major label debut Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
was released. Its single "Soul Survivor", which featured Akon, became a top-ten hit in the US.
The Inspiration followed in 2006, and The Recession
followed in 2008; both albums yielded chart-topping singles. Jeezy has also appeared on numerous other rap and R&B singles such as "Say I
" by Christina Milian
, "I'm So Paid
" by Akon
, "Hard
" by Rihanna
, and "Love in This Club
" by Usher
, the latter being a number one single on the US Billboard Hot 100
in 2008.
, South Carolina
and relocated to Atlanta, Georgia
when he was a toddler. Because his parents were separated, custody of him transferred between family members frequently. At one point, he lived with his grandmother in Hawkinsville, Georgia. In an interview with XXL
magazine, he described his childhood as "empty". In 1994, he spent nine months in YCA (Youth Challenge Academy), a boot camp
in Fort Stewart
, Georgia
, for narcotics possession.
, who also produced some of the tracks. In 2003, Jeezy released (also independently) Come Shop wit Me, a two CD set featuring completely new tracks with some songs from T.U.I. Jeezy signed with Bad Boy Records
in 2004 and joined the group Boyz n da Hood
, whose self-titled album
was released in June 2005 and peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200
albums charts.
's manager Henry 'Noonie' Lee showed Young Jeezy's demo to his friend Shakir Stewart
, Vice President Artist and Repertoire (VP A&R) at Def Jam. Stewart "fell in love with it [the demo] the first time [he] heard it" and took it to L.A. Reid. Reid recognised the talent and gave Stewart the green light to sign him. As the "hottest thing on the street" at the time, various labels - including Warner and Interscope – were after his signature. However, Jeezy decided he wanted to be in business with Stewart and Reid. As a result, signed with Def Jam Records.
Jeezy's major label debut, Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
, was released on July 26, 2005. He debuted at #2, selling 172,000 copies in its first week. It spawned several hit singles such as "Soul Survivor" featuring Akon
. It reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Hot Rap Tracks charts. "And Then What" featuring Mannie Fresh
, which reached #67 on the Hot 100 and #13 on the Hot Rap Tracks. "My Hood", #19 on the Rap chart. In an interview with HitQuarters
, A&R Shakir Stewart said that Jeezy had recorded over 60 songs for the album.
Jeezy partially wrote and performed on Gucci Mane
's song, "Icy". Supposedly, Jeezy was never paid properly for his services. Those in Gucci Mane's camp have suggested that gang members from the Mechanicsville area attacked Gucci Mane to defend Jeezy's honor. Jeezy put out a track called "Stay Strapped" dissing Gucci Mane to the beat of "T.I.'s" song "A.S.A.P." Jeezy responded to Gucci Mane's, while rapping "even his own momma know, Radric Davis a bitch". In a recent Cutmaster C mixtape, The Hood News Page 3: Jay-Z Boycotts Cristal, Gucci disses Jeezy along with Jay Z in his track, "745". Jeezy addresses Gucci back on the same mixtape. While on the track "Break It Down", featuring Cmillz. On "Streets On Lock", from The Inspiration, Jeezy addressed Gucci Mane
again, saying "What type of real nigga name himself after a bag?/Nigga you's a hoe, a Louis Vuitton fag". Towards the end of 2009, DJ Drama brought Young Jeezy to the radio station and called Gucci Mane to settle the beef once and for all. The two stopped feuding but throughout early 2010, the crews of Jeezy & Gucci (CTE & Brick Squad) have been in and out altercations with each other despite the fact Jeezy & Gucci have nothing to do with that. In 2011, Jeezy plans to release a new single featuring DJ Spluge and the rest of the Gangster Brigade.
In interviews and on several records, Jeezy has affirmed his resistance to commercialism
in his music. Maintaining his street credibility
, according to Jeezy, is of the utmost concern to him as an artist. In 2005, Jeezy was featured in several popular hip hop songs including Gucci Mane
's "Icy" and Boyz n da Hood's "Dem Boyz
". Due to having a successful solo career, he left the group. From time to time he still keeps in contact with a few of the members, but in early 2010 Jeezy & Jody Breeze (who is still a member of Boyz N Da Hood) began to diss each other which started a new beef between the two.
's single "Say I
". Jeezy's second major label album was The Inspiration, released in 2006. The album's first single "I Luv It
" peaked at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Bury Me A G" and "Go Getta" featuring R. Kelly
, and "Dreamin’
" featuring Keyshia Cole
followed.
He also portrayed himself in the hip-hop fighting themed game Def Jam: Icon
. In 2007, Jeezy released Cold Summer, an album by rap group USDA
which consists of Jeezy, Blood Raw, Slick Pulla
, 2Eleven and Boo Rossini.
Jeezy presented a week-long toy drive and charity event series with his CTE family with the first annual Toyz n da Hood toy drive. The series presented 1,000 toys for 1,000 kids at various locations in Macon and Atlanta, which began on December 17, 2007, with the CTE Christmas Kickoff from 10 pm to 5 am at Club Miami. The toy giveaway took place in the Unionville neighborhood of Macon and at the Old Fourth Ward Community in Atlanta.
was the lead single, which also led to a Grammy Nomination for Best Rap performance by a duo, but it came short. Put On was followed by "Vacation", "Crazy World", "My President" with Nas
, and "Who Dat" to complete the Recession's singles. Jeezy appeared on the R&B singles "Love in This Club
" by Usher
and "I'm So Paid
" by Akon
(also with Lil Wayne
). "Love in This Club" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Later, he performed on Ciara
's single "Never Ever
", from her album Fantasy Ride
.
In the summer of 2008, Jeezy was at the center of a controversy over his choice for president. While he had previously endorsed Barack Obama, he spoke about meeting and supporting John McCain during an interview with Vibe magazine. The statement caused a stir, and Jeezy quickly clarified his choice, via a viral video. In the four-minute explanation, Jeezy made it clear, Obama was his main choice. "I represent the Democratic party. ... I've never been nor do I ever plan to be a John McCain supporter", the rapper said. "I support Barack Obama." Jeezy and Jay-Z
performed in a concert to celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama
on January 18, 2009. On The O'Reilly Factor
, commentator Bill O'Reilly
criticized their performance as a "rant that offended people", but Jeezy responded: "I got white friends. It's nothing like that. I'm a taxpayer, I got a right to voice my opinion at any point in time. I don't think he really understands my struggle."
, his latest LP, as of November 2009. In March 2010, it was reported that Young Jeezy dropped "Young" from his stage name. Later, Young Jeezy denied the name change and claimed it was just a rumor: however, on the cover for his single "Lose My Mind
", his name is printed as "Jeezy". On May 17, 2011, Jeezy released the first single for Thug Motivation 103, "Ballin", which features Lil Wayne.
On March 4, 2010 Jeezy released the track "Illin", featuring the group Clipse
; specifically Pusha T. On the track Pusha T raps, "No amount of record sales could derail this ...Stuffing dead prezzies in the wall like that Yale bitch..." The line was controversial and many felt the line was in bad taste and demeaned Yale student Annie Le, who was murdered
in 2009, by making light of a crime that had grabbed a lot of media attention due to its extremely upsetting and tragic nature. On July 22, 2011, Young Jeezy released the second single off TM103, "Shake Life". On July 26, 2011, Young Jeezy announced a September 20, 2011 release date for TM103. However the album was pushed back yet again, this time to December 20, 2011.
On September 29, 2011, Young Jeezy released the third single off TM103, named "F.A.M.E. (Fake Ass Mothafu*kas Envy)", featuring T.I. This is the first official song T.I. was featured on since his latest stint in prison.
. After Hurricane Katrina
, Jeezy opened his house to the victims in an effort to help them have a place to stay. In October 2005, the mother of his 9 year old son used this as the basis to petition for child support. Early in the year, she had claimed that she had little income, no assets and did not even have a house.
On March 11, 2005, Jeezy was arrested after an alleged shooting involving some of his friends in Miami Beach, Florida. He was charged with two counts of carrying a concealed firearm without a permit; however, prosecutors dropped his charges two months later over lack of evidence. In the early hours of September 29, 2007, Jeezy totaled his Lamborghini
when it was hit by a taxi crossing Peachtree Street, outside of Justin's, Sean Combs
’ restaurant in Atlanta. The Atlanta Journal Constitution reported his claim that this gave him "a new appreciation for life". In Atlanta on June 18, 2008, police arrested him for DUI
.
Independent albums
Collaboration albums
Mixtapes
United Streets Dopeboyz of America
U.S.D.A. is a hip hop group from Atlanta, Georgia. The group's founder, Atlanta-based rapper Young Jeezy, officially brought the group mainstream after his departure from Boys n da Hood...
(USDA) and a former member of BMF (Black Mafia Family). He began his career in 2001 under an independent label and joined Boyz 'N Da Hood in 2005, the same year his solo major label debut Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
-Samples:*"Go Crazy" contains a sample of " I Want to Go Back" by Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions.*"Talk to 'em" contains samples from "I Need You" by Frankie Beverly and Maze.-Chart positions:...
was released. Its single "Soul Survivor", which featured Akon, became a top-ten hit in the US.
The Inspiration followed in 2006, and The Recession
The Recession
-Additional credits:-Music videos:*"Put On" - July 21, 2008*"Vacation" - August 27, 2008*"Crazy World" - November 17, 2008*"Who Dat" - December 17, 2008*"My President" - January 16, 2009*"Welcome Back" - February 18, 2009*"Circulate" - February 26, 2009...
followed in 2008; both albums yielded chart-topping singles. Jeezy has also appeared on numerous other rap and R&B singles such as "Say I
Say I
"Say I" is a song by American singer Christina Milian. Built around a sample of Jackie Moore's "Clean Up Your Own Yard," it was written by Bunny Sigler, J...
" by Christina Milian
Christina Milian
Christine Flores , better known by her stage name Christina Milian , is an American singer-songwriter, actress, dancer, and model....
, "I'm So Paid
I'm So Paid
"I'm So Paid" is the second single from Akon's third studio album Freedom. The track features additional vocals from Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy. The song was released as a digital download worldwide and a physical single in France only on October 4, 2008. Akon mentions Olympic Athlete Usain Bolt in...
" by Akon
Akon
Aliaune Damala Badara Thiam, better known as simply Akon , is a Senegalese American R&B recording artist and songwriter.According to Forbes, Akon grossed $21 million in 2010, $20 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2008. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of "Locked Up", the first...
, "Hard
Hard (song)
"Hard" is a song by Barbadian recording artist Rihanna from her fourth studio album, Rated R . It was written by Terius Nash, Christopher Stewart, Rihanna and American rapper Jeezy, who also provides featured vocals. Nash and Stewart produced the song under their respective stage names The-Dream...
" by Rihanna
Rihanna
Robyn Rihanna Fenty , better known as simply Rihanna, is a Barbadian recording artist. Born in Saint Michael, Barbados, Rihanna moved to the United States at the age of 16 to pursue a recording career under the guidance of record producer Evan Rogers...
, and "Love in This Club
Love in This Club
"Love in This Club" is a song by American R&B singer Usher. Featuring rapper Young Jeezy, it was released on February 22, 2008 as the lead single from Usher's fifth studio album, Here I Stand. The song was written by Usher, Polow da Don, Young Jeezy, Darnell Dalton, Ryon Lovett, Lamar Taylor and...
" by Usher
Usher (entertainer)
Usher Terry Raymond IV , who performs under the mononym Usher, is an American singer-songwriter, and actor. He is considered around the world to be the reigning King of R&B. Usher rose to fame in the late 1990s with the release of his second album My Way, which spawned his first Billboard Hot 100...
, the latter being a number one single on the US Billboard Hot 100
Billboard Hot 100
The Billboard Hot 100 is the United States music industry standard singles popularity chart issued weekly by Billboard magazine. Chart rankings are based on radio play and sales; the tracking-week for sales begins on Monday and ends on Sunday, while the radio play tracking-week runs from Wednesday...
in 2008.
Early life
Jay Wayne Jenkins was born in ColumbiaColumbia, South Carolina
Columbia is the state capital and largest city in the U.S. state of South Carolina. The population was 129,272 according to the 2010 census. Columbia is the county seat of Richland County, but a portion of the city extends into neighboring Lexington County. The city is the center of a metropolitan...
, South Carolina
South Carolina
South Carolina is a state in the Deep South of the United States that borders Georgia to the south, North Carolina to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Originally part of the Province of Carolina, the Province of South Carolina was one of the 13 colonies that declared independence...
and relocated to Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia (U.S. state)
Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1732, the last of the original Thirteen Colonies. The state is named after King George II of Great Britain. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution, on January 2, 1788...
when he was a toddler. Because his parents were separated, custody of him transferred between family members frequently. At one point, he lived with his grandmother in Hawkinsville, Georgia. In an interview with XXL
XXL (magazine)
XXL is a Hip-Hop magazine, published by Harris Publications.In 1997, XXL was founded by former Source staffers as well as other Harris Publication employees, who wanted to create their own magazine about the hip-hop music and culture using the model developed by the founders of The Source...
magazine, he described his childhood as "empty". In 1994, he spent nine months in YCA (Youth Challenge Academy), a boot camp
Recruit training
Recruit training, more commonly known as Basic Training and colloquially called Boot Camp, is the initial indoctrination and instruction given to new military personnel, enlisted and officer...
in Fort Stewart
Fort Stewart
Fort Stewart is a census-designated place and U.S. Army post primarily in Liberty County and Bryan County, but also extending into smaller portions of Evans, Long, and Tattnall Counties in Georgia, USA. The population was 11,205 at the 2000 census...
, Georgia
Georgia (U.S. state)
Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States. It was established in 1732, the last of the original Thirteen Colonies. The state is named after King George II of Great Britain. Georgia was the fourth state to ratify the United States Constitution, on January 2, 1788...
, for narcotics possession.
Independent debut
Jeezy released his first independent album, Thuggin' Under the Influence (T.U.I.), in 2001 under the name Lil J. It featured artists such as Freddy J.,Kinky B, Fidank, and Lil JonLil Jon
Jonathan Mortimer Smith , better known by his stage name Lil Jon, is an American rapper, music producer, entrepreneur, and occasional disc jockey who was a member of the group Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz. Lil Jon formed the group in 1997, and the group released several albums between then and 2004...
, who also produced some of the tracks. In 2003, Jeezy released (also independently) Come Shop wit Me, a two CD set featuring completely new tracks with some songs from T.U.I. Jeezy signed with Bad Boy Records
Bad Boy Records
Bad Boy Records is a record label founded in 1993 by producer/rapper/entrepreneur Sean "Diddy" Combs. Today it operates as a subsidiary of Warner Music Group, and is distributed by Atlantic Records.-Beginnings:...
in 2004 and joined the group Boyz n da Hood
Boyz N Da Hood
Boyz N Da Hood is an American Southern gangsta rap group from Atlanta, Georgia. They are currently signed to Sean Combs's Bad Boy Records. A new album, Back N Da Hood, is planned for release in 2011...
, whose self-titled album
Boyz N Da Hood (album)
Boyz n da Hood is the debut album by hip hop group Boyz n da Hood released on June 21, 2005.The first single from the album was "Dem Boyz", featuring solo verses from Young Jeezy, Jody Breeze and Duke...
was released in June 2005 and peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200
Billboard 200
The Billboard 200 is a ranking of the 200 highest-selling music albums and EPs in the United States, published weekly by Billboard magazine. It is frequently used to convey the popularity of an artist or groups of artists...
albums charts.
Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101 (2005)
In May 2004, Jazze PhaJazze Pha
Phalon Anton Alexander , also known as Jazze Pha , is an American singer, and songwriter.raised in Memphis, TN; son of James Alexander ....
's manager Henry 'Noonie' Lee showed Young Jeezy's demo to his friend Shakir Stewart
Shakir Stewart
Shakir Stewart , a native of Oakland, California, was a US record executive in a number of companies, the latest being Def Jam...
, Vice President Artist and Repertoire (VP A&R) at Def Jam. Stewart "fell in love with it [the demo] the first time [he] heard it" and took it to L.A. Reid. Reid recognised the talent and gave Stewart the green light to sign him. As the "hottest thing on the street" at the time, various labels - including Warner and Interscope – were after his signature. However, Jeezy decided he wanted to be in business with Stewart and Reid. As a result, signed with Def Jam Records.
Jeezy's major label debut, Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101
-Samples:*"Go Crazy" contains a sample of " I Want to Go Back" by Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions.*"Talk to 'em" contains samples from "I Need You" by Frankie Beverly and Maze.-Chart positions:...
, was released on July 26, 2005. He debuted at #2, selling 172,000 copies in its first week. It spawned several hit singles such as "Soul Survivor" featuring Akon
Akon
Aliaune Damala Badara Thiam, better known as simply Akon , is a Senegalese American R&B recording artist and songwriter.According to Forbes, Akon grossed $21 million in 2010, $20 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2008. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of "Locked Up", the first...
. It reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Hot Rap Tracks charts. "And Then What" featuring Mannie Fresh
Mannie Fresh
Byron O. Thomas, better known by his stage name Mannie Fresh, is currently an artist and hip-hop producer who records for Def Jam South and his own division Chubby Boy Records...
, which reached #67 on the Hot 100 and #13 on the Hot Rap Tracks. "My Hood", #19 on the Rap chart. In an interview with HitQuarters
HitQuarters
HitQuarters is an international music industry publication and contact database founded in 1999. It is noted for in-depth interviews with industry figures, with past subjects including Simon Cowell, Martin Kierszenbaum, Jason Flom, Diane Warren, Peter Edge, Ron Fair and RedOne, as well as its A&R...
, A&R Shakir Stewart said that Jeezy had recorded over 60 songs for the album.
Jeezy partially wrote and performed on Gucci Mane
Gucci Mane
Radric Davis , better known by his stage name Gucci Mane, is an American rapper. He debuted in 2005 with Trap House and followed with albums such as Hard to Kill in 2006, Trap-A-Thon and Back to the Trap House in 2007. In 2009, his second studio album The State vs. Radric Davis was released...
's song, "Icy". Supposedly, Jeezy was never paid properly for his services. Those in Gucci Mane's camp have suggested that gang members from the Mechanicsville area attacked Gucci Mane to defend Jeezy's honor. Jeezy put out a track called "Stay Strapped" dissing Gucci Mane to the beat of "T.I.'s" song "A.S.A.P." Jeezy responded to Gucci Mane's, while rapping "even his own momma know, Radric Davis a bitch". In a recent Cutmaster C mixtape, The Hood News Page 3: Jay-Z Boycotts Cristal, Gucci disses Jeezy along with Jay Z in his track, "745". Jeezy addresses Gucci back on the same mixtape. While on the track "Break It Down", featuring Cmillz. On "Streets On Lock", from The Inspiration, Jeezy addressed Gucci Mane
Gucci Mane
Radric Davis , better known by his stage name Gucci Mane, is an American rapper. He debuted in 2005 with Trap House and followed with albums such as Hard to Kill in 2006, Trap-A-Thon and Back to the Trap House in 2007. In 2009, his second studio album The State vs. Radric Davis was released...
again, saying "What type of real nigga name himself after a bag?/Nigga you's a hoe, a Louis Vuitton fag". Towards the end of 2009, DJ Drama brought Young Jeezy to the radio station and called Gucci Mane to settle the beef once and for all. The two stopped feuding but throughout early 2010, the crews of Jeezy & Gucci (CTE & Brick Squad) have been in and out altercations with each other despite the fact Jeezy & Gucci have nothing to do with that. In 2011, Jeezy plans to release a new single featuring DJ Spluge and the rest of the Gangster Brigade.
In interviews and on several records, Jeezy has affirmed his resistance to commercialism
Commercialism
Commercialism, in its original meaning, is the practices, methods, aims, and spirit of commerce or business. Today, however, it primarily refers to the tendency within open-market capitalism to turn everything into objects, images, and services sold for the purpose of generating profit...
in his music. Maintaining his street credibility
Credibility
Credibility refers to the objective and subjective components of the believability of a source or message.Traditionally, modern, credibility has two key components: trustworthiness and expertise, which both have objective and subjective components. Trustworthiness is based more on subjective...
, according to Jeezy, is of the utmost concern to him as an artist. In 2005, Jeezy was featured in several popular hip hop songs including Gucci Mane
Gucci Mane
Radric Davis , better known by his stage name Gucci Mane, is an American rapper. He debuted in 2005 with Trap House and followed with albums such as Hard to Kill in 2006, Trap-A-Thon and Back to the Trap House in 2007. In 2009, his second studio album The State vs. Radric Davis was released...
's "Icy" and Boyz n da Hood's "Dem Boyz
Dem Boyz
"Dem Boyz" is the first single from the Boyz n da Hood's debut album Boyz n da Hood.Remix=The official remix features verses by rappers T.I...
". Due to having a successful solo career, he left the group. From time to time he still keeps in contact with a few of the members, but in early 2010 Jeezy & Jody Breeze (who is still a member of Boyz N Da Hood) began to diss each other which started a new beef between the two.
The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102, U.S.D.A. (2006–2007)
In 2006, he was featured in Christina MilianChristina Milian
Christine Flores , better known by her stage name Christina Milian , is an American singer-songwriter, actress, dancer, and model....
's single "Say I
Say I
"Say I" is a song by American singer Christina Milian. Built around a sample of Jackie Moore's "Clean Up Your Own Yard," it was written by Bunny Sigler, J...
". Jeezy's second major label album was The Inspiration, released in 2006. The album's first single "I Luv It
I Luv It
"I Luv It" is the first single from Young Jeezy's second album The Inspiration.-Song information:The song is produced by DJ Toomp. It was released on Def Jam on November 2, 2006...
" peaked at #14 on the Billboard Hot 100. "Bury Me A G" and "Go Getta" featuring R. Kelly
R. Kelly
Robert Sylvester Kelly , better known by his stage name R. Kelly, is an American singer-songwriter and record producer. A native of Chicago, Kelly began performing during the late 1980s and debuted in 1992 with the group Public Announcement. In 1993, Kelly went solo with the album 12 Play...
, and "Dreamin’
Dreamin' (Young Jeezy song)
"Dreamin is a song by American rapper Young Jeezy's released as the third single from his second album The Inspiration. It features singer Keyshia Cole and is produced by The Runners....
" featuring Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Cole
Keyshia Myeshia Cole Gibson born October 15, 1981) is an American singer–songwriter and actress. She gained nationwide acclaim when her 2005 debut album, The Way It Is went platinum. Her sophomore album Just Like You went into production shortly after that and was released in September 2007...
followed.
He also portrayed himself in the hip-hop fighting themed game Def Jam: Icon
Def Jam: Icon
Def Jam: Icon is a fighting game, and is the third in Electronic Arts's Def Jam-licensed hip hop video game series. The game was developed by EA Chicago, developers of Fight Night Round 3 and is the first Def Jam game not to be developed by AKI Corporation. Unlike the previous games in the series,...
. In 2007, Jeezy released Cold Summer, an album by rap group USDA
United Streets Dopeboyz of America
U.S.D.A. is a hip hop group from Atlanta, Georgia. The group's founder, Atlanta-based rapper Young Jeezy, officially brought the group mainstream after his departure from Boys n da Hood...
which consists of Jeezy, Blood Raw, Slick Pulla
Slick Pulla
Renaldo Whitman, better known by the stage name Slick Pulla , is an American rap artist from Atlanta, Georgia. He is signed to Young Jeezy's record label Corporate Thugz Entertainment and is a member of the rap group United Streets Dopeboyz of America or U.S.D.A...
, 2Eleven and Boo Rossini.
Jeezy presented a week-long toy drive and charity event series with his CTE family with the first annual Toyz n da Hood toy drive. The series presented 1,000 toys for 1,000 kids at various locations in Macon and Atlanta, which began on December 17, 2007, with the CTE Christmas Kickoff from 10 pm to 5 am at Club Miami. The toy giveaway took place in the Unionville neighborhood of Macon and at the Old Fourth Ward Community in Atlanta.
The Recession (2008)
His third album, The Recession, was released in 2008. "Put On" featuring Kanye WestKanye West
Kanye Omari West is an American rapper, singer, and record producer. West first rose to fame as a producer for Roc-A-Fella Records, where he eventually achieved recognition for his work on Jay-Z's album The Blueprint, as well as hit singles for musical artists including Alicia Keys, Ludacris, and...
was the lead single, which also led to a Grammy Nomination for Best Rap performance by a duo, but it came short. Put On was followed by "Vacation", "Crazy World", "My President" with Nas
Nas
Nasir bin Olu Dara Jones, who performs under the name Nas , formerly Nasty Nas, is an American rapper and actor. He is regarded as one of the most important figures in hip hop and one of the most skilled and influential rappers of all-time...
, and "Who Dat" to complete the Recession's singles. Jeezy appeared on the R&B singles "Love in This Club
Love in This Club
"Love in This Club" is a song by American R&B singer Usher. Featuring rapper Young Jeezy, it was released on February 22, 2008 as the lead single from Usher's fifth studio album, Here I Stand. The song was written by Usher, Polow da Don, Young Jeezy, Darnell Dalton, Ryon Lovett, Lamar Taylor and...
" by Usher
Usher (entertainer)
Usher Terry Raymond IV , who performs under the mononym Usher, is an American singer-songwriter, and actor. He is considered around the world to be the reigning King of R&B. Usher rose to fame in the late 1990s with the release of his second album My Way, which spawned his first Billboard Hot 100...
and "I'm So Paid
I'm So Paid
"I'm So Paid" is the second single from Akon's third studio album Freedom. The track features additional vocals from Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy. The song was released as a digital download worldwide and a physical single in France only on October 4, 2008. Akon mentions Olympic Athlete Usain Bolt in...
" by Akon
Akon
Aliaune Damala Badara Thiam, better known as simply Akon , is a Senegalese American R&B recording artist and songwriter.According to Forbes, Akon grossed $21 million in 2010, $20 million in 2009 and $12 million in 2008. He rose to prominence in 2004 following the release of "Locked Up", the first...
(also with Lil Wayne
Lil Wayne
Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. , better known by his stage name Lil Wayne, is an American rapper. At the age of nine, Lil Wayne joined Cash Money Records as the youngest member of the label, and half of the duo, The B.G.'z, with B.G.. In 1997, Lil Wayne joined the group Hot Boys, which also included...
). "Love in This Club" peaked at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Later, he performed on Ciara
Ciara
Ciara Princess Harris , known mononymously as Ciara, is an American singer-songwriter, dancer, actress and fashion model. Born in Austin, Texas, she traveled around the world during her childhood, only to land in Atlanta, Georgia where she met music producer, Jazze Pha...
's single "Never Ever
Never Ever (Ciara song)
"Never Ever" is a song performed by R&B singer Ciara. It is the first official single from her third studio album, Fantasy Ride. The song features rapper Young Jeezy, was produced by Polow da Don, and was co-written by Ciara and Elvis “BlacElvis” Williams, who both produced and co-wrote Ciara's...
", from her album Fantasy Ride
Fantasy Ride
Fantasy Ride is the third studio album by American R&B singer Ciara. It was released on May 3, 2009 in the UK by RCA Records and May 5 in the United States on LaFace Records. The album combines R&B and hip hop sound from her previous albums along with a new pop and dance direction.The album...
.
In the summer of 2008, Jeezy was at the center of a controversy over his choice for president. While he had previously endorsed Barack Obama, he spoke about meeting and supporting John McCain during an interview with Vibe magazine. The statement caused a stir, and Jeezy quickly clarified his choice, via a viral video. In the four-minute explanation, Jeezy made it clear, Obama was his main choice. "I represent the Democratic party. ... I've never been nor do I ever plan to be a John McCain supporter", the rapper said. "I support Barack Obama." Jeezy and Jay-Z
Jay-Z
Shawn Corey Carter , better known by his stage name Jay-Z, is an American rapper, record producer, entrepreneur, and occasional actor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America, having a net worth of over $450 million as of 2010...
performed in a concert to celebrate the inauguration of President Barack Obama
Barack Obama
Barack Hussein Obama II is the 44th and current President of the United States. He is the first African American to hold the office. Obama previously served as a United States Senator from Illinois, from January 2005 until he resigned following his victory in the 2008 presidential election.Born in...
on January 18, 2009. On The O'Reilly Factor
The O'Reilly Factor
The O'Reilly Factor, originally titled The O'Reilly Report from 1996 to 1998 and often called The Factor, is an American talk show on the Fox News Channel hosted by commentator Bill O'Reilly, who often discusses current controversial political issues with guests.The program was the most watched...
, commentator Bill O'Reilly
Bill O'Reilly (political commentator)
William James "Bill" O'Reilly, Jr. is an American television host, author, syndicated columnist and political commentator. He is the host of the political commentary program The O'Reilly Factor on the Fox News Channel, which is the most watched cable news television program on American television...
criticized their performance as a "rant that offended people", but Jeezy responded: "I got white friends. It's nothing like that. I'm a taxpayer, I got a right to voice my opinion at any point in time. I don't think he really understands my struggle."
Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition (2011-present)
Jeezy is working on Thug Motivation 103Thug Motivation 103
Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition is the upcoming fourth studio album by American rapper Young Jeezy, set to be released on December 20, 2011 through Corporate Thugz Enterainment, and Def Jam Recordings...
, his latest LP, as of November 2009. In March 2010, it was reported that Young Jeezy dropped "Young" from his stage name. Later, Young Jeezy denied the name change and claimed it was just a rumor: however, on the cover for his single "Lose My Mind
Lose My Mind
"Lose My Mind" is the first single released from Young Jeezy's upcoming album, Thug Motivation 103. The song features rapper Plies. The song was also released on Jeezy's mixtape "Trap or Die II". It is nominated for Best Rap Performance By Duo or Group at the 2011 Grammy's.-Music video:The music...
", his name is printed as "Jeezy". On May 17, 2011, Jeezy released the first single for Thug Motivation 103, "Ballin", which features Lil Wayne.
On March 4, 2010 Jeezy released the track "Illin", featuring the group Clipse
Clipse
Clipse is a Virginia Beach, Virginia-based hip hop duo. Formed in 1992 by brothers Malice and Pusha T , the group is heavily affiliated with production team The Neptunes and signed to Star Trak Entertainment.- Exclusive Audio Footage :The Thornton brothers were born in The Bronx, New...
; specifically Pusha T. On the track Pusha T raps, "No amount of record sales could derail this ...Stuffing dead prezzies in the wall like that Yale bitch..." The line was controversial and many felt the line was in bad taste and demeaned Yale student Annie Le, who was murdered
Murder of Annie Le
Le was born in Placerville, California, to a Vietnamese American family. She spent her childhood with her aunt and uncle. Le was valedictorian of her graduating class at Union Mine High School, and voted one of two students to be "the next Einstein." After earning approximately $160,000 in...
in 2009, by making light of a crime that had grabbed a lot of media attention due to its extremely upsetting and tragic nature. On July 22, 2011, Young Jeezy released the second single off TM103, "Shake Life". On July 26, 2011, Young Jeezy announced a September 20, 2011 release date for TM103. However the album was pushed back yet again, this time to December 20, 2011.
On September 29, 2011, Young Jeezy released the third single off TM103, named "F.A.M.E. (Fake Ass Mothafu*kas Envy)", featuring T.I. This is the first official song T.I. was featured on since his latest stint in prison.
Personal life
He is a personal friend of fellow Atlanta rapper Yung JocYung Joc
YaMar Jon Robinson , better known by his stage name Yung Joc, is an American rapper.-Early life:Robinson's father, Vivian Young, ran a hair-care products company and helped him write a jingle for Revlon; Robinson founded his own label to release his music.-New Joc City :After Teaming with producer...
. After Hurricane Katrina
Hurricane Katrina
Hurricane Katrina of the 2005 Atlantic hurricane season was a powerful Atlantic hurricane. It is the costliest natural disaster, as well as one of the five deadliest hurricanes, in the history of the United States. Among recorded Atlantic hurricanes, it was the sixth strongest overall...
, Jeezy opened his house to the victims in an effort to help them have a place to stay. In October 2005, the mother of his 9 year old son used this as the basis to petition for child support. Early in the year, she had claimed that she had little income, no assets and did not even have a house.
On March 11, 2005, Jeezy was arrested after an alleged shooting involving some of his friends in Miami Beach, Florida. He was charged with two counts of carrying a concealed firearm without a permit; however, prosecutors dropped his charges two months later over lack of evidence. In the early hours of September 29, 2007, Jeezy totaled his Lamborghini
Lamborghini
Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., commonly referred to as Lamborghini , is an Italian car manufacturer. The company was founded by manufacturing magnate Ferruccio Lamborghini in 1963, with the objective of producing a refined grand touring car to compete with established offerings from marques like...
when it was hit by a taxi crossing Peachtree Street, outside of Justin's, Sean Combs
Sean Combs
Sean John Combs , also known by his stage names Diddy and P. Diddy, is an American rapper, singer, record producer, actor, and entrepreneur. He has won three Grammy Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards, and his clothing line earned a Council of Fashion Designers of America award. He was originally...
’ restaurant in Atlanta. The Atlanta Journal Constitution reported his claim that this gave him "a new appreciation for life". In Atlanta on June 18, 2008, police arrested him for DUI
DUI
DUI is a three letter acronym that may stand for:* Driving under the influence * Democratic Union for Integration — the largest ethnic Albanian party in the Republic of Macedonia* Data Use Identifier...
.
Discography
Studio albums- 2005: Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101-Samples:*"Go Crazy" contains a sample of " I Want to Go Back" by Curtis Mayfield & The Impressions.*"Talk to 'em" contains samples from "I Need You" by Frankie Beverly and Maze.-Chart positions:...
- 2006: The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102The Inspiration: Thug Motivation 102Sample credits"I Luv It"*"I Believe to My Soul" by Donny Hathaway"Go Getta"*"Born on Halloween" by Blue Magic*"Gone Away" by Roberta Flack"Streets on Lock"*Interpolation of "Out of Touch" by Hall & Oates"Bury Me a G"...
- 2008: The RecessionThe Recession-Additional credits:-Music videos:*"Put On" - July 21, 2008*"Vacation" - August 27, 2008*"Crazy World" - November 17, 2008*"Who Dat" - December 17, 2008*"My President" - January 16, 2009*"Welcome Back" - February 18, 2009*"Circulate" - February 26, 2009...
- 2011: Thug Motivation 103: Hustlerz Ambition
Independent albums
- 2001: Thuggin' Under the Influence (T.U.I.)
- 2003: Come Shop wit Me
Collaboration albums
- 2005: Boyz n da HoodBoyz N Da Hood (album)Boyz n da Hood is the debut album by hip hop group Boyz n da Hood released on June 21, 2005.The first single from the album was "Dem Boyz", featuring solo verses from Young Jeezy, Jody Breeze and Duke...
(with Boyz n da HoodBoyz N Da HoodBoyz N Da Hood is an American Southern gangsta rap group from Atlanta, Georgia. They are currently signed to Sean Combs's Bad Boy Records. A new album, Back N Da Hood, is planned for release in 2011...
) - 2007: Cold Summer (with U.S.D.A)
- 2011: The Afterparty (with U.S.D.A)
- TBA: It's The World (with CTE WorldCorporate ThugzCorporate Thugz Entertainment is a record label founded by rapper Young Jeezy and his childhood friend Kinky B and owned by Def Jam Recordings.-Corporate Thugz Entertainment:...
)
Mixtapes
- 2004: Tha Streets Iz Watchin (Hosted by DJ DramaDJ DramaTyree Cinque Simmons better known as DJ Drama is an American hip hop artist and the official DJ for Grand Hustle/Atlantic recording artist T.I.....
) - 2005: Trap Or Die (Hosted by DJ Drama)
- 2006: Can't Ban The Snowman (Hosted by DJ Drama)
- 2006: I Am the Street Dream! (Hosted by DJ Drama)
- 2008: The Prime Minister (Hosted by DJ InfamousDJ InfamousMarco Rodriguez-Diaz, better known by his stage name Infamous, is a Grammy winning record producer and three-time world champion DJ.-Biography:Infamous is a Miami Based Music Producer most known for his work with rapper Lil Wayne...
) - 2009: Trappin' Ain't Dead (Hosted by DJ Folk)
- 2010: Trap Or Die Part 2: By Any Means Necessary (Hosted by Don CannonDon CannonDonald Cannon is an American record producer and DJ. At the age of five, Donald Cannon began his musical career with his first a set of turntables, a mixer and a karaoke machine...
) - 2010: 1000 Grams (Hosted by DJ Scream)
- 2010: The Last Laugh
- 2011: The Real Is Back
- 2011: The Real Is Back 2
Awards
- BET Awards
- 2010, Viewer's Choice Award ("Hard") with Rihanna [Won]
- 2009, Best Male Hip-Hop Artist [Nominated]
- 2008, Best Collaboration ("I'm So Hood [Remix]") with DJ Khaled, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, Lil Wayne, Fat Joe, Birdman, & Rick Ross [Nominated]
- BET Hip-Hop Awards
- 2008, Best Hip-Hop Video ("I'm So Hood [Remix]") with DJ Khaled, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, Lil Wayne, Fat Joe, Birdman, & Rick Ross [Nominated]
- 2008, Best Hip-Hop Collabo ("I'm So Hood [Remix]") with DJ Khaled, Ludacris, Busta Rhymes, Big Boi, Lil Wayne, Fat Joe, Birdman, & Rick Ross [Won]
- 2008, People's Champ Award ("Put On") with Kanye West [Nominated]
- 2006, Hip-Hop CD of the Year ("Let's Get It: Thug Motivation 101") [Nominated]
- 2006, Hip-Hop MVP of the Year [Nominated]
- Grammy Awards
- 2009, Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group ("Put On") with Kanye West [Nominated]
-
- 2010, Best Rap Performance By a Duo or Group ("Amazing") with Kanye West (Nominated)
- 2011, Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group ("Lose My Mind") with Plies (Nominated)
- Ozone Awards
- 2008, Best Rap Artist [Nominated]
- 2008, Best Rap/R&B Collaboration ("Love in This Club") with Usher (Won)
- 2007, Best Rap Album The Inspiration (Won)
- 2007, Best Rap/R&B Collaboration ("Go Getta") with R. Kelly [Nominated]
- 2007, Best Video ("Grew Up a Screw Up") with Ludacris [Nominated]
- 2007, Best Group with Slick Pulla & Blood Raw as USDA [Nominated]