Michael Len Williams II, better known as Mike WiLL Made-It, was born on March 23, 1989, in Marietta, Georgia. Growing up in a musically inclined family, Mike WiLL’s passion for music was nurtured by his Uncle Al, a musician whose influence played a significant role in shaping his career. From a young age, Mike WiLL was immersed in the world of music, developing a keen interest in production that would later define his career. His early exposure to the music industry came through hanging around with his uncle and gaining insight into the perseverance and individuality needed to succeed.
Mike WiLL’s career began to take shape in the early 2010s. His production work, particularly in the trap genre, quickly gained attention. He first made waves with his mixtape Est. In 1989, which featured a blend of singles and previously unreleased tracks, including collaborations with Future and Gucci Mane. This mixtape served as a showcase of his talent and helped him build a reputation in the industry. His production skills earned him a substantial following and significant radio play, laying the foundation for his future success.
Throughout his career, Mike WiLL Made-It has been known for his work with some of the biggest names in hip hop and pop. His notable productions include Rae Sremmurd’s “Black Beatles” and “Powerglide,” Kanye West’s “Mercy,” Rihanna’s “Pour It Up,” and Beyoncé’s “Formation.” His ability to craft hits across various genres is evident in his impressive discography. Mike WiLL’s debut single “23” in 2013, featuring Miley Cyrus, Wiz Khalifa, and Juicy J, marked his entry as a lead artist and achieved considerable commercial success, peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Mike WiLL’s talent in production was further highlighted with his follow-up single “Rake It Up” in 2017, featuring Yo Gotti and Nicki Minaj, which reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut studio album, Ransom 2 (2017), showcased his versatility and included collaborations with artists like Rihanna, Kendrick Lamar, and Future. This album solidified his status as a leading producer in the industry.
In addition to his work as a producer, Mike WiLL founded EarDrummer Records in 2013, in partnership with Interscope Records. This label has signed notable acts such as Rae Sremmurd and the late rapper Trouble, further expanding his influence in the music industry. His contributions to the soundtrack of the film Creed II in 2018, which featured original music written and produced by Mike WiLL, demonstrated his ability to create compelling music for various projects.
Mike WiLL’s influences include renowned producers like Dr. Dre, Timbaland, and Shawty Redd, whose work has significantly shaped his production style. His admiration for these artists is reflected in his own music, which blends elements of trap with innovative sounds. Additionally, Mike WiLL’s respect for producers like DJ Toomp and Pharrell highlights his appreciation for diverse musical influences.
In recent years, Mike WiLL has continued to make strides in his career. He released the single “Bang Bang” with Chief Keef in 2020 and collaborated with Nicki Minaj and YoungBoy Never Broke Again on “What That Speed Bout!?” Although his album Michael faced delays, Mike WiLL’s influence remains strong. In 2023, he partnered with ESPN as the lead producer for the 2023-24 NBA season, showcasing his versatility and ongoing relevance in the industry. His single “Different Breed,” featuring Latto and Swae Lee, further solidified his position as a prominent figure in music.
