Smiley

Smiley, born Alexander Eli Morand in 1997, is a Canadian rapper from Toronto’s Pelham Park neighborhood. He took his first steps into the rap scene in 2014, joining the group Garden Gang. Early in his career, Smiley gained recognition with tracks like “9 on Me” and “Garden Girl,” which showcased his distinct flow and storytelling style.

In 2021, Smiley’s career took a significant leap forward when he signed with OVO Sound, the renowned record label founded by Drake. Shortly after joining OVO, he released his breakout single “Over the Top,” which featured none other than Drake himself. The track quickly made waves, charting on both the Canadian Hot 100 and the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying Smiley’s presence in the mainstream rap scene.

Later that same year, Smiley dropped his highly anticipated album Buy or Bye 2. The project featured collaborations with artists such as Yung Bleu, Duvy, Pressa, and OhGeesy, further expanding his reach and versatility as an artist. The album’s success continued to build on the momentum of his hit single, showcasing Smiley’s evolving sound and his ability to work with top-tier artists.

With his unique blend of Toronto rap influences and his own personal style, Smiley has positioned himself as one of the city’s most promising rising stars. His journey is a testament to the power of persistence, collaboration, and staying true to his roots while pushing forward in the competitive world of hip-hop.