Jordan Terrell Carter, known professionally as Playboi Carti, was born on September 13, 1996, in Atlanta, Georgia. A prominent figure in contemporary rap, Carti has significantly influenced the trap and rage subgenres of hip-hop. His career is marked by innovative music, a distinctive style, and a growing legacy within the music industry.
Carti began his music career under the moniker Sir Cartier, releasing a mixtape titled Young Misfit in November 2012. However, he rebranded as Playboi Carti at the age of 17, marking a turning point in his career. His breakthrough came in 2015 with the single “Broke Boi,” which garnered significant attention and laid the foundation for his future success.
Initially signed to the underground label Awful Records, Carti gained further exposure through his collaborations and performances at major fashion events such as Yeezy Season 5, VFiles, and Raf Simons, where he shared stages with artists like Lil Uzi Vert and A$AP Rocky. In 2016, he was featured on A$AP Mob’s debut studio album Cozy Tapes Vol. 1: Friends, contributing to tracks like “London Town” and “Telephone Calls.”
Playboi Carti’s self-titled debut mixtape, released on April 14, 2017, marked a significant milestone in his career. The mixtape, featuring collaborations with Lil Uzi Vert, A$AP Rocky, and Leven Kali, peaked at number 12 on the US Billboard 200. Notable tracks such as “Magnolia” and “Wokeuplikethis” (featuring Lil Uzi Vert) became hits, with “Magnolia” particularly standing out for its success on the Billboard Hot 100.
The mixtape’s success was complemented by Carti’s debut tour, where he opened for Gucci Mane and Dreezy. His growing prominence was further cemented by features on A$AP Mob’s Cozy Tapes 2: Too Cozy, A$AP Ferg’s Still Striving, and NAV’s Perfect Timing by the end of 2017.
Carti’s debut studio album, Die Lit, released on May 11, 2018, saw critical and commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard 200. The album was noted for its standout tracks including “Shoota,” “Foreign,” “Choppa Won’t Miss,” “Mileage,” and “Poke it Out.” It featured collaborations with Lil Uzi Vert, Nicki Minaj, Chief Keef, Young Thug, Travis Scott, and Bryson Tiller. Despite mixed reviews, the album was well-received by fans and solidified Carti’s position in the rap scene.
After a two-year hiatus, Carti released his highly anticipated second studio album, Whole Lotta Red, on December 25, 2020. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and was praised for its audacious and experimental style. It was listed among the greatest albums of the year by publications like Rolling Stone and The Washington Post.
In 2024, Carti achieved a new milestone with the single “Carnival,” featuring Rich the Kid and ¥$, which became his first song to top the Billboard Hot 100. He is also set to release his third studio album later in 2024.
Playboi Carti is known for his unique “baby voice” vocal technique, characterized by high-pitched, often unclear pronunciations and energetic cadences. He has used this style on tracks such as “Almeda” with Solange, “Earfquake” with Tyler, the Creator, and “Pissy Pamper” with Young Nudy and Pi’erre Bourne. Carti’s music is often described as “playful, hard-hitting, and very melodic,” with a focus on atmosphere rather than traditional lyricism.
Carti’s aesthetic incorporates elements of Satanic imagery and vampire influences, reflecting his eclectic musical inspirations that include A$AP Rocky, Kanye West, Jay-Z, MF Doom, Slayer, Sex Pistols, and Kiss. His style has been praised for its audacity and has contributed to his status as a trailblazer in modern trap music.
