Lil’ Keke

Born Marcus Lakee Edwards on March 29, 1976, Lil’ Keke emerged from Houston, Texas, as an original member of the influential Southern hip hop collective Screwed Up Click. His early career began in the 1990s, freestyling over tapes and developing a distinct lyrical style. He gained significant recognition with his track “Southside” from his 1997 album, “Don’t Mess Wit Texas,” a song that became an anthem for Houston’s burgeoning rap scene. His collaboration with DJ Screw, the originator of the ‘chopped and screwed’ sound, was pivotal, with Keke contributing to numerous mixtapes and becoming known for his unique flow and inventive phrases.

Lil’ Keke’s career saw consistent releases and collaborations, reinforcing his status in hip-hop. In 2005, he signed with Swishahouse Records, a move that further broadened his reach and led to features on tracks like Paul Wall’s 2007 hit “Break ‘Em Off.” His 12th studio album, “Loved by Few, Hated by Many,” released in 2008, achieved commercial success by reaching the Top 10 on Billboard’s Top Rap Albums chart. Beyond his music, Lil’ Keke has engaged in community service in Houston, an effort recognized with an award from President Barack Obama in 2016.

Over decades, Lil’ Keke has maintained a presence in music, releasing new albums such as “Slfmade” (2016), “Slfmade 2” (2018), “Slfmade 3” (2020), and “Lgnd” (2022). He has also launched his own company and brand, Slfmade 713, incorporating Houston’s area code into its identity. His consistent output, impactful collaborations with artists like Slim Thug, Paul Wall, and Big K.R.I.T., and his sustained connection to the Houston community, underscore his enduring legacy in Southern hip-hop.