Rick Ross

Rick Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II on January 28, 1976, is an American rapper who became one of the defining voices in mainstream Southern hip-hop of the 2000s and 2010s. Known for his booming baritone delivery, thick beard, and trademark grunt ad-libs, Ross built a persona rooted in opulent, mafioso-style storytelling that set him apart from many of his peers.

His 2006 debut album Port of Miami went platinum and produced the breakout hit «Hustlin'», which reached the top of the Billboard charts and established the template of luxury, crime-adjacent narrative rap that would define much of his subsequent catalog. He followed with a steady stream of commercially successful albums, cementing his place as one of the most consistent hitmakers of his generation, with tracks like «Aston Martin Music» and «Stay Schemin'» showcasing his ear for polished, radio-ready production paired with dense wordplay.

Beyond his solo work, Ross founded Maybach Music Group, a label that became a significant force in mainstream hip-hop, signing artists such as Meek Mill and Wale and releasing multiple gold-certified solo and compilation albums. As both a performer and executive, Rick Ross helped shape the sound and business model of 2010s Southern rap, blending grandiose lyrical themes with sharp commercial instincts.