Quavo is one of the most influential and successful rap artists of the 21st century. But do you know his real name and how he rose to fame? Let’s explore Quavo’s true identity and his journey in the music industry.
Quavious Keyate Marshall: The man behind Quavo
Quavo’s real name is Quavious Keyate Marshall. Born in Athens, Georgia on April 2, 1991. He was raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
He is of African-American descent and has a sister named Kashara.
Quavo went to Berkmar High School. He didn’t just study, though. He also played football as the starting quarterback in 2009. He was named the county’s offensive player of the year after leading the team to a 7-4 record. However, despite finishing the football season for his senior year, Quavo dropped out of Berkmar months before graduation.
He had a passion for music since he was a child. He grew up listening to rap legends such as Tupac, Biggie, and Nas. He also learned how to play the piano and drums. He started making beats and recording songs with his nephew Takeoff and their mutual friend Offset, who were also interested in rap.
Migos: The rise and fall of a hip hop phenomenon
In 2008, Quavo, Takeoff, and Offset formed a hip hop group called Polo Club. They later changed their name to Migos, a slang term for an abandoned house used as a trap house. The trio is from Lawrenceville, Georgia, and they are often credited for popularizing the trap subgenre of rap music.
Migos released their first mixtape, Juug Season, in 2011, followed by No Label in 2012. They gained mainstream attention in 2013 with their viral single “Versace,” remixed by Drake. The song got a nomination for a BET Hip Hop Award.
Migos’ first album, Yung Rich Nation (2015), featured Chris Brown, Young Thug, and Lil Wayne. The album peaked at number 17 on the Billboard 200 and spawned the hit single “One Time.”
In 2017, Migos gained recognition for their second studio album, Culture. The album topped the Billboard 200 chart and received a platinum certification from the RIAA. One of the most popular songs from the album was “Bad and Boujee,” which featured Lil Uzi Vert and became a cultural sensation, with the lyrics becoming a meme. The album also included other smash hits like “T-Shirt,” “Slippery,” and “Kelly Price.”
Migos were unstoppable in 2018. Their third studio album, Culture II, topped the Billboard 200 and went platinum. The album included the Grammy-nominated song “Stir Fry,” produced by Pharrell Williams. It also had hits like “Walk It Talk It,” “MotorSport,” and “Narcos.”
Migos released their fourth and final studio album, Culture III, in 2021, which was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The album featured the singles “Straightenin,” “Avalanche,” and “Need It.”
Migos announced their disbandment in 2023, citing creative differences and personal issues. The group thanked their fans for their support and said that they would pursue their solo careers.
Quavo Huncho: The solo star
Outside of Migos, Quavo has been featured on several Billboard Hot 100 top 10 hits, such as Post Malone’s “Congratulations”—which was certified diamond by the RIAA—as well as DJ Khaled’s chart-toppers “No Brainer” and “I’m the One,” the latter of which peaked atop the chart. He has also collaborated with artists like Travis Scott, Justin Bieber, Cardi B, Madonna, and Beyoncé.
Quavo released his debut solo album Quavo Huncho in 2018. It ranked number two on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold by the RIAA.The album featured the singles “Workin Me,” “Lamb Talk,” and “Bubble Gum.” The album also included a song called “Huncho Dreams,” which was a response to Nicki Minaj’s “Barbie Dreams,” in which he addressed their rumored relationship.
He released his second solo album, Rocket Power, in 2023, which was dedicated to the memory of his nephew and former Migos member Takeoff, who passed away in a car accident in 2022. The album debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and earning Quavo his first Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. The album featured the singles “Rocket Man,” “Space Jam,” and “Moonwalk.”
Quavo is known for his unique rap style, featuring triplet flows and distinctive ad-libs, such as “skrrt,” “brrr,” and “huncho.” He is also praised for his versatility and charisma, as he can switch from rap to pop to R&B with ease. He is widely regarded as one of the best hook makers and chorus singers in the rap game.
Quavo: The fashion icon and pop culture influencer
Rapper Quavo is not only a music star but also a fashion icon and a pop culture influencer. He is known for his flamboyant fashion sense, which includes designer clothes, jewelry, sunglasses, and hairstyles. He has been featured on the cover of magazines like GQ, Complex, and The Fader. He has also launched his own clothing line, Huncho, which offers streetwear and accessories.
He has also made his mark on hip hop culture, with his name and lyrics being referenced in movies, TV shows, video games, and memes. He has appeared in films like The Fate of the Furious, Narcos: Mexico, and Wash Me in the River. He has also voiced himself in animated shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy. He has also starred in his own reality show, Quavo’s World, which follows his life and adventures.
Quavo also helps others by giving money and resources to different causes like education, health, and social justice. He joins events and campaigns like the Black Lives Matter movement, the COVID-19 relief efforts, and the voter registration drives.
Quavious Keyate Marshall is undoubtedly one of the most influential and successful rap artists of the 21st century. He has proven himself as a leader, a visionary, and a legend in the music industry. He has gone beyond music and become an influential icon and role model for millions of fans around the world.
