Capone

Capone, born Kiam Aksi Holley, is a rap legend renowned for his profound influence on East Coast hip-hop culture. Born to Haitian parents, Capone’s upbringing in Queens, New York, infused his music with a unique blend of cultural influences and street wisdom. Alongside his close friend and collaborator Noreaga, Capone rose to prominence as one half of the iconic duo Capone-N-Noreaga (C-N-N).

The duo’s seminal album, “The War Report,” released in 1997, catapulted them to stardom, reaching the Top 5 of the Hip Hop/R&B charts and achieving Gold certification. Renowned for revitalizing East Coast rap, “The War Report” solidified Capone-N-Noreaga’s status as trailblazers in the genre.

Despite encountering legal challenges that briefly interrupted his career, Capone continued to make waves in the industry. Following his release from jail, he reunited with N.O.R.E. to record their second album, “The Reunion.” However, Capone’s incarceration once again interrupted their musical journey.

In 2004, Capone showcased his versatility by crafting the single “I Need Speed” for the video game “Need for Speed: Underground 2,” highlighting his adaptability beyond traditional album releases. Subsequently, his departure from Def Jam Recordings in 2005 marked a turning point in his career, leading to the release of his debut solo album, “Pain, Time, and Glory.”

Capone continued to showcase his lyrical prowess and resilience through subsequent albums such as “Menace 2 Society” (2006) and “Revenge Is a Promise” (2009). In 2020, under Empire Distribution, he collaborated with Daz Dillinger on the album “Guidelines,” further solidifying his enduring legacy in the rap scene as a true pioneer and innovator.