Prodigy was one half of the influential New York hip-hop duo Mobb Deep, alongside Havoc. Born Albert Johnson on November 2, 1974, in Hempstead, Long Island, he became a central figure in East Coast hip-hop during the 1990s. Prodigy and Havoc met as teenagers while attending the High School of Art and Design in Manhattan. They quickly bonded over their shared love of music, leading to the formation of Mobb Deep. The duo gained critical and commercial success with their second album, "The Infamous," which included hits like "Shook Ones, Pt. II." Prodigy was known for his hard-hitting lyrics that vividly depicted the struggles and survival stories of urban life.

Beyond his work with Mobb Deep, Prodigy pursued a successful solo career, highlighted by his debut solo album "H.N.I.C." and its sequels. His solo discography often delved into deeper and more personal themes, including his battles with sickle cell anemia, a condition he suffered from since birth and which influenced much of his work. Noteworthy later works include "The Hegelian Dialectic" series, showcasing his lyrical depth and storytelling prowess. Despite battling health issues, Prodigy remained a prolific figure in hip-hop until his untimely death on June 20, 2017. His legacy is marked by his contributions to the raw, unvarnished narrative of street life in his music, which continues to influence the genre.

Genres

Hardcore Hip Hop

Queens Hip Hop

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Latest Release

SIGN OF SE7EN

Rakim•

Prodigy•

X-Raided

Single - Released July 25, 2024