Rob49: The Rise of a New Orleans Rap Sensation
Robert Coleman Thomas, professionally known as Rob49, was born on March 6, 1999, in New Orleans, Louisiana.
He gained prominence as an American rapper, particularly recognized for his collaboration with 21 Savage on Travis Scott's hit song "Topia Twins," which achieved success on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking within the top 20.
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Early Life:
Robert Thomas spent his early years in the Iberville Projects of New Orleans, primarily raised by his mother due to his father's extended incarceration during his childhood.
The family experienced displacement during Hurricane Katrina, temporarily residing in Baton Rouge and Houston before returning to New Orleans. Following high school graduation, Thomas enlisted in the National Guard as a pathway to pursue higher education.
He initially attended Southern University with aspirations to study nursing but withdrew after two semesters to pursue a career in music.
Before Fame:
Before gaining recognition in the music industry, Rob49 made the pivotal decision to drop out of college to focus on his passion for rapping.
His early days were marked by honing his skills and navigating the competitive landscape of the hip-hop scene.
Career:
Rob49 officially launched his music career in 2020 after leaving Southern University. He adopted the stage name "Rob49" as a homage to his upbringing in New Orleans' 4th and 9th wards.
His debut mixtape, "4our the World," was released on March 11, 2020, followed by "Vulture" on May 2, 2020, and "Krazy Man" on July 24, 2020.
Over the subsequent years, he continued to build momentum with releases such as "4GOD" (2021) and "Welcome to Vulture Island" (2022), featuring collaborations with notable artists like Birdman, Lil Baby, and G Herbo.
Rob49's versatility and lyrical prowess garnered attention, leading to collaborations with industry veterans and appearances on prominent albums and tours.
His participation in Future's "One Big Party Tour" and features on albums by Lil Durk, French Montana, and Trippie Redd underscored his rising influence in the rap community.
In June 2023, Rob49 was honored as a member of the prestigious XXL Freshmen Class, highlighting his impact on contemporary rap culture.
His sixth album, "4GOD II," released on June 9, 2023, featured a star-studded lineup including Roddy Ricch, DaBaby, and NoCap. The deluxe edition, released on August 11, 2023, expanded with additional tracks featuring Skilla Baby, Tay B, and Lil Durk.
Rob49's career trajectory continues to ascend, marked by his collaboration with Travis Scott on "Topia Twins," a standout track from Scott's album "Utopia" (2023), solidifying his position as a prominent figure in today's rap scene.
Personal Life:
Beyond his musical achievements, Rob49 faced adversity in January 2023 when he was injured in a mass shooting during the filming of French Montana's music video for "Igloo" in Miami.
The incident, which affected multiple individuals, underscored the risks and challenges faced by artists in the entertainment industry.
Musical Influences:
Rob49 has cited a diverse range of musical influences that have shaped his style, including Southern rap legends like Lil Wayne, Juvenile, and Master P, whose impact on the New Orleans music scene deeply resonated with him.
These influences are reflected in his lyrical content and delivery, blending traditional Southern rap elements with a contemporary twist.
Philanthropic Efforts:
Rob49 has been actively involved in charitable initiatives, particularly those aimed at supporting communities affected by natural disasters or social inequalities.
His philanthropic endeavors reflect his commitment to giving back and using his platform to uplift others.
Future Projects:
Looking ahead, Rob49 continues to explore new creative avenues and collaborations within the music industry.
Fans can anticipate upcoming releases, tours, or even ventures into acting or multimedia projects that showcase his multifaceted talents.
Rob49's journey from the streets of New Orleans to becoming a chart-topping rapper exemplifies resilience, artistic vision, and a commitment to storytelling through music.
His contributions to hip-hop culture continue to resonate, making him a significant figure in the evolution of modern rap.