Hailing from Massachusetts, Joyner Lucas (born Gary Maurice Lucas, Jr.) first gained widespread recognition in 2015 with his release, Ross Capicchioni. Since then, he has built a successful and occasionally controversial career as a rapper, producer, songwriter, and actor. In 2019, he received two Grammy nominations for Best Rap Song and Best Music Video. With his upcoming album, ADHD, expected to follow the success of his commercial debut, 508-507-2209, Lucas is a rising talent worth keeping an eye on. Here are 20 facts about his life and career.
1. The Evolution of His Stage Name
Initially performing under the name G-Storm, Lucas later adopted the moniker Future Joyner before finally settling on Joyner Lucas. During this time, he also collaborated with his uncle, Cyrus tha Great, to form the group “Film Skool Rejeks” and released a mixtape before pursuing solo success.
2. Major Record Label Signing in 2017
In September 2016, Lucas signed with Atlantic Records, fulfilling his dream of joining a major label. He believed that a big label would provide the resources and support needed to achieve the level of success he desired.
3. Fatherhood and Personal Life
Although Lucas is private about his personal life, he often references his son in his music and has described writing about his child and estranged girlfriend as a cathartic process.
4. Two Grammy Nominations
Lucas received two nominations at the 61st Grammy Awards: Best Music Video for “I’m Not Racist” and Best Rap Song for “Lucky You.” He ultimately lost to Childish Gambino’s “This is America” and Drake’s “God’s Plan” in their respective categories.
5. Ross Capicchioni: A True Story
Lucas’ 2015 track, Ross Capicchioni, is based on the real-life story of a 17-year-old who survived a near-fatal assault during a gang initiation. The music video follows the events leading up to the shooting, with Lucas portraying the perspective of the shooter.
6. A Humble Artist
Despite being compared to hip-hop greats like J. Cole, Kendrick, Drake, and Eminem, Lucas remains humble and acknowledges their superior talents.
7. Featured on a Sports Video Game
Lucas’ track “F.Y.M.” (ft. Mystikal) from his Atlantic Records debut, 508-507-2209, was included in the soundtrack for Madden NFL 18, alongside artists like Kendrick Lamar, A$AP Mob (Rocky), Playboi Carti, Logic, Joey Bada$$, Action Bronson, Big Sean, and Travis Scott.
8. Building His Fortune
As of 2019, Lucas’ net worth is estimated to be around $1 million, a figure that is expected to grow as his career progresses.
9. Polarizing Opinions with “I’m Not Racist”
Lucas’ 2017 release, “I’m Not Racist,” sparked controversy and debate over its exploration of race relations in America. While some praised the track, others criticized it as reductive and overly simplistic.
10. Eminem as a Key Influence
Lucas has cited Eminem as one of his primary influences and even collaborated with him on the track “Lucky You” from Eminem’s 2018 album, Kamikaze.
11. Parting Ways with Atlantic Records in 2018
In December 2018, Lucas announced that he had left Atlantic Records to become an independent artist once again. Despite the split, he has continued to work on his upcoming album, ADHD.
12. Feud with Tory Lanez
In November 2018, a feud erupted between Lucas and Tory Lanez after Lanez claimed to be a better MC. The two engaged in a freestyle battle and exchanged taunts on social media, with Lanez ultimately declaring himself the winner.
13. Conflict with Hopsin
Lucas found himself in another hip-hop feud in Fall 2018 when Hopsin implied that he was the better rapper. The two exchanged heated words, with Hopsin threatening to “break [Lucas’] soul.”
14. Controversy with the Catholic Church
Lucas’ May 2019 track “Devil’s Work” caused controversy with the Catholic Church due to its music video, which was filmed in St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Worcester. The pastor who initially granted permission for the filming later expressed regret after seeing the final product.
15. Disagreement with Tomi Lahren
In “Devil’s Work,” Lucas lists several people who he believes “deserve to die instead” of late musical legends, including far-right pundit Tomi Lahren. Lahren took issue with her inclusion in the song, calling it “disgusting” and a “step too far.”
16. Collaboration with Chris Brown
In February 2018, Lucas collaborated with controversial artist Chris Brown on a joint project titled “Angels and Demons.” Lucas has defended Brown on social media and continued to support him amid rape allegations.
17. BOI-1DA’s Favorite Lyricist
Canadian hip-hop producer BOI-1DA has praised Lucas as one of the best lyricists and storytellers he has ever heard, citing his creativity and unconventional approach as reasons for their collaboration.
18. Criticized for Defending R. Kelly
Following the premiere of the Lifetime documentary “Surviving R. Kelly,” Lucas took to Twitter to offer support to the embattled artist, which led to backlash and forced him to delete his tweet and clarify his intentions.
19. Not a Sports Fan
Despite having a track featured in a sports video game, Lucas is not a sports fan himself. He has explained that he stopped watching sports to focus on his career and achieve success.
20. Involved in the Entire Creative Process
Lucas is heavily involved in all aspects of his music, from writing lyrics to directing and editing music videos. He often envisions the video concept before even beginning to work on the track itself.
Follow Us
