Belly, born Ahmad Balshe on April 7, 1984, in Jenin, Palestine, and raised in Ottawa, Canada, is a rapper, singer, and record producer known for his profound lyrical prowess and a career marked by both critical acclaim and mainstream success. He burst onto the music scene with mixtapes in the 2000s, eventually catching the attention of major labels and collaborators. Widely recognized for his dark, introspective lyrics and unique blend of hip-hop elements, Belly crafts a soundscape that is both reflective of his personal experiences and responsive to the wider societal and cultural issues.

Belly's career took a definitive turn with the release of his mixtape "The Revolution" in 2007, winning a Juno Award for Rap Recording of the Year. His crossover into the U.S. market was bolstered by a partnership with XO, a record label led by fellow Canadian artist The Weeknd, and subsequently signing to Roc Nation in 2015. Belly's discography showcases his versatility and evolution as an artist, including hits like "What You Want" featuring The Weeknd and "Might Not." His album "IMMIGRANT" was a commentary on his experiences and perspectives as an immigrant, while his 2021 album "See You Next Wednesday" further cemented his stature, featuring collaborations with respected artists such as Nas in "Die For It" and tracks like "Better Believe." Belly's art continues to resonate, offering a complex tapestry woven from the threads of his Middle Eastern background, his experiences in Canada, and his creative explorations within the music industry.

Genres

Canadian Hip Hop

Canadian Trap

Related Artists

Gunna

NAV

The Weeknd

Future

Travis Scott

Drake

J. Cole

Lil Durk

Tory Lanez

Big Sean

Logic

Denzel Curry

Latest Release

96 Miles From Bethlehem

Belly

Album - 9 Tracks - Released May 30, 2024