David Banner

David Banner, born Lavell Crump, is a rapper, producer, and actor from Jackson, Mississippi, who became one of the defining voices of Southern hip-hop in the 2000s. His stage name is a reference to the television series The Incredible Hulk. Before going solo, he was part of the duo Crooked Lettaz, and after graduating from Southern University he launched his solo career with Them Firewater Boyz, Vol. 1 in 2000.

Banner's commercial breakthrough came with his 2003 major-label debut Mississippi: The Album, released on Universal Records, driven by the hit single «Like a Pimp». The record topped Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop charts and established his signature style — heavy, bass-driven Southern production paired with socially conscious lyricism that set him apart from many of his crunk and dirty-South contemporaries. He followed it with several more albums through the decade, including tracks like «Play» and «Get Like Me» that became club and radio staples.

Beyond his own recordings, Banner built a significant reputation as a producer, notably crafting T.I.'s breakout hit «Rubberband Man». In 2010 he released the independently issued Death of a Pop Star, a collaborative project with producer 9th Wonder. Over his career he has also pursued acting and public advocacy work, remaining a respected figure in Southern hip-hop for combining regional sound with pointed social commentary.