Silento, the artist behind the viral hit song ‘Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),’ has had a tumultuous journey since his rise to fame. While his catchy tune had kids all over the world dancing, the hip-hop star has faced numerous legal issues in recent years. In this article, we’ll delve into the life of Silento, from his humble beginnings to his current struggles, including being charged with the murder of his own cousin in 2021.
A Meteoric Rise to Fame
Born Richard Lamar Hawk on January 22, 1998, Silento grew up in Stone Mountain, Georgia. He adopted the stage name Silento, sometimes known as Prince Silento, when he began his music career. At just 17 years old, he created the hit song ‘Watch Me’ in his basement and uploaded it to his YouTube channel. Within a week, the video had garnered over 2.5 million views, catapulting Silento into the spotlight.
Legal Troubles Begin
Unfortunately, Silento’s newfound fame seemed to come with a dark side. In August 2020, he was arrested for a domestic disturbance, accused of using “corporal injury” on someone in his home. He was released the same night, only to be arrested again the following day for entering a stranger’s home with a hatchet, demanding to see his girlfriend whom he believed was inside.
A Downward Spiral
Silento’s legal issues didn’t end there. In October 2020, he was arrested once more for speeding and reckless driving, clocking in at a staggering 143 miles per hour on the interstate. But the most shocking incident occurred in February 2021, when Silento was arrested and charged with the murder of his cousin, who had been shot and killed. He was arrested, charged, and booked the same day.
The Price of Fame
Silento’s rapid rise to stardom and subsequent legal troubles seem to suggest that the sudden fame and fortune may have been too much for the young artist to handle. With a net worth of $1.5 million, it’s clear that his success came at a high cost. It’s currently unknown whether Silento still has a girlfriend following the domestic issues in 2020, and he remains a private individual despite his public struggles.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
Despite his personal troubles, Silento’s influence on the music industry cannot be denied. His viral hit ‘Watch Me’ paved the way for other dance songs, such as ‘Juju On That Beat,’ to gain popularity and change the landscape of the music world. As fans and observers alike watch Silento’s story unfold, it’s important to remember the impact he had on the industry and the challenges that can come with sudden fame.
Follow Us
