Gucci Mane and the Significance of 1017
More Than a Label, It’s a Movement
For Gucci Mane—known to fans as Guwop, Trap God, La Flare, and Mr. Zone 6—the number 1017 isn’t just a label. Learn about his journey from the streets of Alabama to becoming Trap’s most influential figure. Today, as we celebrate October 17 (10/17)—known as Gucci Mane Day—it’s the perfect time to reflect on how 1017 became a movement. Yet, there’s a case to be made that 1017 Records could’ve reached even greater heights, possibly surpassing even the juggernaut Young Money Entertainment, if it hadn’t been for Gucci’s frequent run-ins with the law.
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1017: A Street Legacy
The number 1017 has deep personal meaning for Gucci Mane, representing his childhood home at 1017 First Avenue in Bessemer, Alabama. Naming his label 1017 Records was a way for Big Guwop to stay connected to his roots, bringing that gritty authenticity into his music and business moves. However, his street legacy wasn’t without its challenges. Gucci’s career was marked by numerous legal issues, with frequent stints in prison that slowed down the growth of 1017 Records.
October 17: A Date That Marks Hip-Hop History
October 17 (10/17), now known as Gucci Mane Day, became a significant date in hip-hop history. With milestones such as his wedding to Keyshia Ka’oir on October 17, 2017, the date has evolved into a celebration of Gucci’s triumphs. But behind the success stories, there’s a lingering “what if?” regarding the empire Gucci could have built with 1017 Records, had his legal troubles not interfered with his full potential.
1017 Records: A Launchpad for Trap Stars
Under Gucci’s leadership, 1017 Records became a hub for groundbreaking trap talent. But how much bigger the label could have been if Gucci had been able to devote his full attention to it. As La Flare, Gucci showed an incredible knack for spotting talent and bringing raw, street-level artists into the mainstream. The roster he cultivated at 1017 reads like a list of trap’s biggest stars:
- Waka Flocka Flame: With his high-energy anthems, Waka became one of the most visible faces of trap music in the early 2010s, helping bring Gucci’s label to prominence.
- Young Thug: Gucci’s early co-sign of Thugger showed his sharp eye for talent. Thug would go on to become one of the most innovative voices in modern rap, known for his experimental sound and unique vocal delivery.
- Pooh Shiesty: One of the latest breakout stars from 1017, Pooh Shiesty’s gritty sound and street credibility helped the label maintain its connection to the streets, showing that 1017 is still a powerful force.
- OJ da Juiceman: One of Gucci’s earliest collaborators, OJ da Juiceman was instrumental in shaping the Southern trap sound. With his breakout hit “Make the Trap Say Aye” reflecting the hustle that defined 1017’s early years.
- Young Scooter: Known for his reflective street anthems, Scooter brought depth and authenticity to the 1017 roster.
- Peewee Longway: Another key figure in Atlanta’s trap scene, Peewee Longway’s unpredictable flow and unique style made him a standout in the 1017 crew.
- Migos: While they eventually signed elsewhere, Gucci Mane recognized their potential early and nearly signed them to 1017 Records. With hits like Versace, Migos went on to become one of the biggest names in hip-hop, showcasing what could have been if they had stayed with Gucci’s label.
A Missed Opportunity: 1017 vs. Young Money
When you look at the artists that passed through 1017, it’s clear that Gucci Mane had the talent pool to rival, and potentially even surpass, Young Money Entertainment. Imagine a world where Young Thug, Migos, Pooh Shiesty, Waka Flocka Flame, and others stayed under Gucci’s guidance. If Gucci had been free from legal troubles, he could have fostered these relationships further, creating a label powerhouse that rivaled the influence of Young Money, which brought stars like Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Wayne to the forefront.
In fact, Gucci almost signed both Drake and Nicki Minaj to 1017 Records early in their careers, which would have completely shifted the power dynamics in hip-hop. If he had avoided prison sentences and maintained consistent momentum, Gucci could have had a roster filled with some of the most dominant names in rap, possibly making 1017 the most influential label of the 2010s.
RELATED: Listen to Gucci’s recent bangin’ collaboration with B.G.
Legal Troubles: The Roadblock to 1017’s Dominance
Unfortunately, Gucci’s numerous legal issues significantly impacted the trajectory of 1017 Records. Frequent incarcerations between 2005 and 2016 derailed the label’s growth at crucial moments. While Gucci was behind bars, other labels—like Young Money—had the freedom to capitalize on the momentum and sign artists that Gucci had identified early. In the midst of his legal battles, Gucci’s lyric “I don’t feel you ’cause I’m paraplegic, where’s my paralegal?” almost feels like a reflection of his struggle to manage his career while dealing with the constant weight of legal challenges.
If Gucci had remained free, his natural talent as an A&R and his business acumen could have turned 1017 Records into a trap empire rivaling Young Money’s success. Instead, the label’s potential was frequently interrupted, stalling its growth at key moments.
Learn more about Gucci Mane’s incredible jounrey in The Autobiography of Gucci Mane, a book I highly reccomend:
The Symbolism of 1017: Hustle and Resilience
Despite the setbacks, Big Guwop has always bounced back. The number 1017 symbolizes resilience, survival, and staying true to the streets. Even when his empire was disrupted by legal troubles, Gucci Mane managed to keep his brand alive. His influence, especially as a talent scout, remains undeniable. His lyrics, like “My jewelry game sick, I think my jeweler need chemo,” reflect his ability to stand out and thrive, despite the obstacles in his path.
Through it all, 1017 has remained a symbol of Gucci’s journey—proof that hustle and determination can overcome almost any barrier.
RELATED: Gucci Mane: From Trap House to to Jailhouse to Symphony
The Future of 1017: A Legacy in Motion
As we celebrate Gucci Mane Day on 10/17, the legacy of 1017 Records continues. Rising stars like Pooh Shiesty keep the label’s momentum going. While Gucci Mane has transformed from a troubled artist into a focused mogul. 1017 still has the potential to be one of the most influential labels in hip-hop, thanks to Gucci’s enduring vision and talent for discovering future stars.
While 1017 may not have achieved the same mainstream dominance as Young Money, largely due to Gucci’s legal issues, it remains an undeniable force in trap music. With Gucci now free and focused, 1017 could still reach new heights, continuing to shape the future of hip-hop as we know it. The question is no longer about what could have been—it’s about what will come next for Big Guwop and his empire.