Mr. Mike, whose real name is Michael Banks, is a notable figure in the Southern hip-hop expanse, most renowned for his gritty and poignant reflections on street life. Emerging in the early 1990s, he first gained prominence as one-half of the successful rap duo South Circle with Thorough. His 1996 solo debut, "Wicked Wayz," led by his distinctively deep voice and a collaboration with Ice Cube, thrust him into the spotlight, earning him recognition in the hardcore rap community.

Over the course of his career, Mr. Mike has been recognized for his storytelling prowess and unflinching honesty, addressing themes of struggle, survival, and the complexities of street politics. Releases like "Pimp Back" and "Jealousy" showcase his ability to balance bravado with vulnerability, while "I Found God in tha Streetz" and "Family Do You da Worse" touch on the transformative and often challenging nature of life in the urban landscape. As an artist, Mr. Mike's authenticity has resonated with fans seeking music with substance, earning him a respected place within the genre. His more recent works continue to display his evolution as an artist, with "When the Smoke Clears" and "South Side Rider" reaffirming his dedication to delivering thought-provoking lyrics over hard-hitting beats.

Genres

Dirty South Rap

Dirty Texas Rap

Related Artists

Kendrick Lamar

J. Cole

A$AP Rocky

Nas

Logic

Chance the Rapper

Joey Bada$$

Royce Da 5'9"

Noname

Latest Release

The Old Me

Mr. Mike

Single - Released October 31, 2024