Kingpin Skinny Pimp

Kingpin Skinny Pimp, born Derrick Dewayne Hill in 1976, is a revered rapper and producer from Memphis, Tennessee. Growing up in the tough environment of the Dixie Homes projects in North Memphis, he discovered his passion for rap at a young age, starting to rhyme in 1985 while attending Herman Junior High School. Early in his career, he collaborated with DJ Squeeky, but it was his partnership with DJ Paul and Juicy J of Three 6 Mafia that helped propel his career. He played a key role in the creation of their 1995 debut album Mystic Stylez.

In 1996, Skinny Pimp launched his solo career with the album King of da Playaz Ball, produced by DJ Paul and Juicy J. Despite facing limited radio play, the album sold over 60,000 units, cementing Skinny Pimp’s place in the Memphis rap scene. However, financial struggles led him to sign away the rights to his music for just $10,000—a decision he later regretted.

Throughout his career, Skinny Pimp has released several influential albums, such as Skinny But Dangerous (1996), The New Beginning (1998), and Da Product Vol. 1 (2001). His style, which blends rapid-fire delivery and gritty lyricism, has made a lasting impact on the Memphis rap scene. Inspired by the film Hustle & Flow (2005), which mirrored his own journey, Skinny Pimp continues to be a respected figure in hip-hop, shaping the genre even without mainstream recognition.