Kirko Bangz

Kirk Jerel Randle, known professionally as Kirko Bangz, was born on August 20, 1989, in Houston, Texas. He began his rapping career at the age of fifteen, motivated by his mother’s efforts as a single parent. After graduating from North Shore High School, he pursued a communications major at Prairie View A&M University, where he also developed his music career. It was during his time at the university that he met his future manager, D Will, and started focusing on his musical aspirations.

Bangz launched his career in 2009 with his first mixtape, “Procrastination Kills.” He later signed with Warner Records and released his debut single, “What Yo Name Iz?” on February 7, 2011. This song achieved commercial success, reaching number 41 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. A remix of the track, featuring artists like Big Sean, Wale, and Bun B, was released in June 2011. His second single, “Drank in My Cup,” released on September 16, 2011, became his most notable hit. It debuted on the Billboard Hot 100 in February 2012, eventually peaking at number 28 on the chart and topping the Hot Rap Songs chart. The song’s popularity led to numerous remixes and freestyles from prominent hip-hop artists.

In 2013, Kirko Bangz was recognized as part of XXL’s Freshman Class. He continued to release mixtapes, including “Progression 3” in August 2013 and “Progression V: Young Texas Playa” in December 2014, with appearances from artists like Bun B, Paul Wall, and YG. He later signed with 300 Entertainment in 2015 and released two EPs, “Fallin’ Up Mix” in August 2015 and “Playa Made” in February 2016. Despite these releases, his anticipated debut album, “Bigger Than Me,” remains unreleased due to complications regarding material ownership with Warner Music Group.