As embarrassed as I am to say this, Gucci Mane was once more of a pop culture icon to me rather than a hip-hop staple. So when I moved to Atlanta, GA, I was in for a shock. Gucci so heavily influences the hip-hop culture in the South, I’d bet you $100 you couldn’t find a DJ who wasn’t spinning a Gucci record in the club on any given night. He’s been a certified Southern hip hop legend, and the rest of the country is finally catching up as he’s started to dip into the mainstream.
One of the things that puts Guwop in the ‘legendary’ category is his ability to recognize talent and launch the young & hungry into superstardom. He’s founded some of hip hop’s most elite, including Future, Young Thug, Waka Flocka, Fetty Wap, Kodak Black, Young Dolph, and Chief Keef. While he hasn’t remained on good terms with some of his protégées (namely, Waka Flocka), there’s no denying his influence on their careers.
In honor of 1017 Day (1017 was the house number of Gucci’s grandfather growing up, and he’s associated himself with the number ever since), here are 5 Gucci Mane songs that you need to know:
- Freaky Girl (2007)
Even if you’re not super familiar with Gucci, you’ve probably heard this one.
2. Bricks ft. Yo Gotti & OJ Da Juiceman
Bricks was hosted by DJ Holiday, and he attributes much of his career success to this record alone. Peep his cameos in the video.
3. I Think I Love Her
The classic Atlanta club anthem.
4. Lemonade
‘Lemonade’ is short for Liquid Hydrocodone.
5. Wasted ft. Plies
2 Southern trap kings, one song.
