Self Biography & Awards | Billboard.com

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Artist Info

Born

Washington DC

Biography

Hip-hop artist Self, who also goes by his alter ego of Eddie Whispers, brought D.C. rap back to the forefront come the new millennium. A denizen of the streets, Self isn't afraid to touch upon the neighborhood darkness he experienced as a young teen. Born to a preacher mother, he was already dabbling in drugs and getting in trouble in his native South D.C. district. His love for hip-hop brought him out of self-destruction, in particular rappers such as Kool Moe Dee and Rakim. Self made his debut on DJ S&S's 1999 rap mix Harlem World Order, and shortly thereafter, he had a deal with Lethal Records. What About My Life marked Self's proper solo release, a haunting take on life in the underground and gang life, and collaborative efforts with Mack 10, Tragedy Khadafi, 50 Cent, and Freddie Foxxx. His first single, "Fire It Up," went to number nine on Billboard's Rap Chart and hit number 15 on the Gavin Report. ~ MacKenzie Wilson, All Music Guide