Hopsin
- Attended James Monroe High School
Marcus Jamal Hopson, known professionally as Hopsin, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer hailing from Panorama City, Los Angeles, California. Born on July 18, 1985, Hopsin gained recognition for his unique style, characterized by the use of white-colored eye contacts in his music videos and performances. His distinctive approach to hip-hop, combined with intricate lyrics and a strong message, has made him a notable figure in the genre.
Hopsin's journey into the world of music began in the late 2000s when he was signed by renowned record executive Jerry Heller to Ruthless Records. In 2009, he released his debut studio album, "Gazing at the Moonlight," which showcased his lyrical abilities and laid the groundwork for his future endeavors. The same year, he established his independent label, Funk Volume, which served as a platform for his subsequent projects. His second album, "Raw," was released in 2010 and further solidified his presence in the hip-hop scene.
The pinnacle of Hopsin's career came with the release of his third album, "Knock Madness," in 2013. The album was well-received and marked a significant milestone in his career, earning him a wider audience and critical acclaim. Following this success, he signed with Warner Records and released "Pound Syndrome" in 2015, which peaked within the top 20 of the Billboard 200 and remains his most commercially successful work to date.
In 2016, Hopsin launched his successor label, Undercover Prodigy, in a joint venture with 300 Entertainment. Through this label, he released his fifth album, "No Shame," in 2017. While the album garnered mixed reviews and had lesser commercial success compared to his previous projects, it showcased his evolution as an artist and his willingness to tackle personal themes and societal issues.
Throughout his career, Hopsin has not only focused on his own music but also supported other artists through Funk Volume. The label signed and released projects for regional talents such as SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, and Jarren Benton before its dissolution in 2016. In addition to his musical contributions, Hopsin took on a new role in 2020 when he joined the board of directors for Artist Republik, a media-based technology company aimed at empowering independent artists in the music industry.
As of now, Hopsin continues to be an influential figure in hip-hop, known for his thought-provoking lyrics and dedication to his craft. His journey from a young aspiring rapper to a prominent artist reflects his resilience and passion for music, making him a respected name in the industry.