Who is Ian Rapper? The Rise of a Viral Hip-Hop Star

Ian Rapper has taken the music world by storm. Born Ian O’Neill Smith, this young artist from St. Louis, Missouri, has become one of the most talked-about names in rap. With his unique style and quick rise to fame, Ian Rapper stands out in a crowded scene. He mixes high-energy beats with catchy flows, drawing fans from all over. At just 20 years old, Ian Rapper has already released hit songs, mixtapes, and albums that chart on Billboard. His story is one of hard work, viral moments, and bold music choices.

Early Life and Background

Ian Rapper was born on May 29, 2005, in St. Louis, Missouri. He grew up in a regular family and later moved to Dallas, Texas. As a kid, he went to Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas, where he played rugby and crew. Sports were a big part of his life back then. He even attended Clemson University for a short time and played rugby there, too.

But music was always calling him. Ian, the rapper, started making beats and mixes early on. Around 2018, when he was just 13, he uploaded music to SoundCloud under the name suburbancerberus. He made remixes of popular songs and produced for underground artists. This was his way of learning the ropes. Ian, a rapper, loved trap and rage sounds from artists like Playboi Carti, Lil Uzi Vert, and Yeat. He practiced a lot in private before sharing his own raps.

His background is different from that of many rappers. Ian comes from a suburban area and has a comfortable life. This has been part of what makes people talk about him. Some see it as fresh, while others question it. But Ian Rapper has always said he just loves the music and wants to make his own path.

How Ian Rapper Started His Music Career

Ian Rapper’s journey began on SoundCloud. He released his first single, “G63,” in July 2022. Soon after, in August 2022, he dropped his debut EP called Only For A While. These early tracks got some attention in the underground scene.

In 2023, a rapper started releasing singles under his own name. Songs like “Bad Habits” and “Ghost Ride” helped him build a small fanbase. He worked hard on his production skills, too. Producers like Sxprano played a big role in shaping his sound.

Things changed big time in early 2024. Ian Rapper released “Figure It Out,” and it blew up on TikTok. People loved the catchy hook and energy. The song talked about fast cars, jewelry, and living large. It quickly became a viral hit. This led to a record deal with Bu Vision, part of Columbia Records. Big names like Lil Yachty, Metro Boomin, and even Drake noticed him.

Ian, the rapper, used social media smartly. He posted videos of himself playing his music in fancy places, which got millions of views. His style – preppy looks mixed with trap flows – made him stand out.

The Breakout Hit: Figure It Out

No song defines Ian Rapport more than “Figure It Out.” Released in 2024, this track changed everything. The lyrics are simple but fun: talking about private flights, expensive things, and confidence. One line about his brother being like Marshawn Lynch became super popular.

The music video was a game-changer. Produced by Lyrical Lemonade, it featured NFL star Marshawn Lynch himself. Lynch ran through people just like the lyrics said. The video showed the rapper in luxury cars and parties. It got millions of views fast.

“Figure It Out” spread like wildfire on TikTok. People made dances and memes with it. It helped him go from underground to mainstream. The song landed on his first big project and proved he could make hits.

Discography and Major Releases

Ian Rapper has a growing list of music. His debut mixtape, Valedictorian, came out on May 17, 2024. It debuted at number 54 on the Billboard 200. The tape has high-energy rage beats and features production from Sxprano and Tana. Tracks like “Magic Johnson” went viral, too.

He released a deluxe version soon after. Then, in October 2024, Ian Rapper dropped his first studio album, Goodbye Horses. It showed more growth with songs like “Fit Check” featuring VonOff1700.

In 2025, Ian Rapper kept the momentum. He released singles and a new mixtape called 2005. Fans love his woozy synths, Auto-Tune, and punchy lines. He also collaborated with Lil Yachty on “Hate Me,” which hit the Hot 100 at number 68.

Ian Rapper’s music is trap with rage elements. He raps about money, girls, and success. His sound is influenced by southern rap but with a fresh twist.

Ian Rapper’s Unique Style and Sound

What makes Ian Rapper special? His style is a mix of old and new. He uses heavy Auto-Tune and dreamy beats like Yeat. His flows are fast and energetic, perfect for parties.

Ian Rapper looks different, too. He often wears preppy clothes – polos and clean outfits. This contrasts with typical rap fashion. Some call him the “suburban trap” king.

His lyrics are straightforward. He talks about winning, haters, and a luxury life. Fans say it’s relatable and fun. Critics say it’s basic. But Ian Rapper keeps evolving. In newer songs, he adds more personal touches.

Live shows are wild. Ian Rapper jumps around and gets the crowd hyped. His tours sell out fast.

Tours and Live Performances

Ian Rapper loves the stage. In late 2024, he did the “Ian” Tour for Valedictorian. He played in cities like Chicago, Houston, and San Diego.

In 2025, the “Gap Year Tour” and “Goodbye Horses Tour” took him worldwide. Fans rave about the energy. He performs hits like “Figure It Out” and new tracks. Crowds mosh and sing along.

Ian Rapper has played big festivals too, like Lollapalooza in 2025. His shows are full of lights, bass, and excitement. Tickets sell quickly on sites like Ticketmaster.

Controversies Surrounding Ian Rapper

Ian Rapper is polarizing. Many love his music, but others criticize him. A big issue is his background. As a white rapper from suburbs doing trap music, some say he appropriates Black culture.

Tyler, the Creator called him out, saying Ian mocks artists like Future and Gucci Mane. Critics say his videos show privilege, like family dinners while rapping about the trap.

In 2025, his XXL Freshman freestyle got mixed reactions. Some called it corny, others defended it. Leaked photos made fun of online, but I laughed it off.

Fans argue he’s just influenced and genuine. He started young and loves the genre. Debates continue, but it keeps him in the news.

Achievements and Recognition

Despite debates, Ian Rapper has big wins. Valedictorian charted high. “Hate Me” hit the Hot 100. He has millions of Spotify listeners – over 4.8 million monthly.

In 2025, he made the XXL Freshman list. Big rappers shout him out. Tours sell out, and videos get tens of millions of views. The rapper signed a major deal early. He’s worked with Lyrical Lemonade multiple times. At 20, his future looks bright.

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Final Words!

Ian Rapper is a new force in hip-hop. From SoundCloud beginnings to Billboard charts, his rise is impressive. With catchy songs, energetic shows, and a unique look, he captures young fans. Debates may continue, but Ian Rapper keeps making music his way. As he grows, expect more hits and evolution. Ian Rapper proves that passion and timing can change everything in rap.