There aren’t many rappers today (or in history, for that matter) that stuck with their real names when they got into the industry. Whether this is because they wanted to keep their identity out of the limelight or were simply open to a nice change, the inspiration behind it is often fascinating. Even more fascinating is that the incredibly talented Gucci Mane, who, despite wearing Gucci more often than not, was not inspired by the fashion house but by a family member’s nickname.
Born to Ralph Everett Dudley and Vicky Jean Davis in 1980, Gucci Mane was named Radric Delantic Davis when he was born. The Alabama-born rapper would soon pioneer the hip-hop subgenre of trap music and earn achievements beyond his wildest dreams.
Known best for hits like “Freaky Gurl,” “Like That ft. Doja Cat,” and “Wake Up in the Sky,” Gucci Mane has earned a Grammy nominee along with award wins for MTV Video Music Award for Best Pop Video, Teen Choice Award for Choice Single: Group, and Billboard Music Award for Top Rap Collaboration. He has also earned as many as 24 RIAA certifications, with Gold and Platinum certificates being awarded for songs like “Make Love” with Nicki Minaj, “Big Boy Diamonds” with Kodak Black, and “Big Booty” with Megan Thee Stallion. He would later add another Platinum to his stack of achievements with the single “Curve” alongside The Weeknd.
