Emerging from the storied streets of Memphis, Tennessee, Key Glock established himself as a formidable voice in hip-hop, carrying the torch for his city's distinctive sound. Born Markeyvius LaShun Cathey on August 3, 1997, his path to music was profoundly shaped by his family, most notably his cousin, the late Memphis rap icon Young Dolph. Under Dolph's mentorship and through his independent label, Paper Route Empire, Glock honed a raw, confident style characterized by booming bass, unflinching lyricism, and a charismatic, deadpan delivery.
His career launched in earnest with the 2017 mixtape "Glock Season," a project that immediately resonated with the local scene and laid the foundation for his growing catalog. He built a steady momentum with a series of well-received mixtapes, including "Glock Bond" and "Son of a Gun," which solidified his status as a core artist within Paper Route Empire. His official debut studio album, 2020's "Yellow Tape," marked a significant commercial breakthrough, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard 200 and eventually earning a gold certification from the RIAA, proving his appeal far beyond Memphis.
The 2021 sequel, "Yellow Tape 2," elevated him further, debuting at number seven on the Billboard 200. The album spawned the multi-platinum single "Ambition for Cash" and the poignant track "Proud," which became his first entry on the Billboard Hot 100 following the tragic murder of his cousin and mentor, Young Dolph, in late 2021. In the wake of this loss, Glock became a central figure in upholding Dolph's legacy and the independence of Paper Route Empire. He continued his prolific output with the 2023 album "Glockoma 2," which featured the sleeper hit "Let's Go," securing his second career entry on the Hot 100 and demonstrating his enduring connection with fans.
Key Glock's journey is one of organic growth, from a local standout to a nationally recognized rapper whose work consistently charts. He maintains a dedicated following through his authentic portrayal of Memphis life, his unwavering work ethic, and his commitment to the independent model championed by Young Dolph. As a leading figure for Paper Route Empire, he continues to release music that reinforces his position as a pivotal artist in the contemporary hip-hop landscape.