Shyne, born Jamal Michael Barrow on November 8, 1978, in Belize City, Belize, is a rapper and former protégé of hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. His career launched in the late 1990s after signing with Bad Boy Records, and his self-titled debut album, 'Shyne' (2000), quickly distinguished him within the hip-hop community for his gritty lyrics and husky voice, drawing comparisons to the late Notorious B.I.G. The album boasted notable tracks such as "Bad Boyz" and "That's Gangsta," securing his reputation in the rap scene.

However, Shyne's ascending trajectory was abruptly interrupted when he was involved in a high-profile New York nightclub shooting in 1999 and subsequently convicted of assault, gun possession, and reckless endangerment. Sentenced to 10 years in prison, Shyne continued to influence the hip-hop world from behind bars with the release of his second album, 'Godfather Buried Alive' in 2004. Despite his legal battles, Shyne has managed a comeback since his release in 2009 and subsequent deportation to Belize, embracing not only his musical career but also engaging in philanthropy and politics, even getting elected to the Belizean House of Representatives in 2020. His recent releases, such as "Bad Mood" and "Tamale," continue to reflect his unique blend of reggae and rap, and his experiences that have reshaped his life and lyricism.

Genres

Gangster Rap

Hardcore Hip Hop

Hip Pop

Jewish Hip Hop

Southern Hip Hop

Related Artists

Black Rob

Drag-On

Memphis Bleek

Freeway

G. Dep

Young Gunz

Beanie Sigel

Sheek Louch

The LOX

N.O.R.E.

The Diplomats

Styles P

Latest Release

Las Hallacas Guarapo

Shyne

Single - Released April 10, 2024