Lola Brooke

Lola Brooke, born Shyniece Thomas on February 1, 1994, in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, is an American rapper whose rise to fame reflects both her talent and her resilience. Growing up as an only child, Lola was raised by her mother, a widow, in the vibrant yet challenging environment of Brooklyn. From an early age, she showed a deep interest in music, often writing in her journal and crafting lyrics as early as eight years old. Her early inspirations were heavily influenced by the hip-hop culture that surrounded her, particularly the music of 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Meek Mill, and Foxy Brown. The premiere of 50 Cent’s “Wanksta” in 2002 was a pivotal moment for her, sparking her desire to pursue rap.

Despite her passion, Lola’s journey into the music industry didn’t begin immediately. Before she fully committed to her music career, she worked as a residential aide at a shelter, a job she held until 2017. During this period, she continued to hone her craft, working alongside her cousin Jah, who learned how to produce beats using Pro Tools. In 2016, Lola took a significant step towards her dream by signing with Team 80 Productions. This move marked the beginning of her professional journey in the music industry.

Lola’s breakthrough came in 2021 with the release of her single “Don’t Play with It.” The track quickly gained traction on social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok, where its catchy beat and assertive lyrics resonated with a wide audience. The success of “Don’t Play with It” marked a turning point in her career, propelling her into the spotlight and leading to her signing with Arista Records in 2023.

Her momentum continued to build as she joined A Boogie wit da Hoodie as an opening act on his Me v. Myself Tour in early 2023. That same year, she released several high-profile tracks, including “So Disrespectful” and a remix of “Don’t Play with It,” featuring fellow American rappers Latto and Yung Miami. Her growing influence was further cemented when she made a cameo appearance on the CBS television series East New York in March 2023, showcasing her expanding presence beyond just the music scene.

April 2023 saw Lola Brooke featured on the Girls Mix version of Ciara’s song “Da Girls,” alongside Ciara and Lady London. The collaboration highlighted her versatility and ability to blend her style with that of other prominent artists. By June 2023, she had been selected as part of the prestigious XXL Freshmen Class, a recognition that has often been a precursor to greater success in the rap industry.

Lola’s debut studio album, Dennis Daughter, was released on November 10, 2023. The album title pays homage to her late father and reflects her personal journey and the struggles she has overcome. Musically, Lola’s work is characterized by its gritty, unapologetic lyrics and a sound that blends traditional hip-hop elements with modern influences. Her stage name, Lola Brooke, is a nod to her Brooklyn roots and the beloved Looney Tunes character Lola Bunny, reflecting both her toughness and her playful side.

Throughout her career, Lola has drawn inspiration from a diverse range of artists, including 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Foxy Brown, and Lil’ Kim. She refers to herself by the nickname “Big Gator,” a moniker that encapsulates her fierce and tenacious personality. Her music, much like her journey, is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and unwavering determination to succeed in a competitive industry.