Yelawolf, born Michael Wayne Atha in Gadsden, Alabama, is an underground rapper known for his distinctive Southern style. He rose to major-label success in 2011 with the album Radioactive under Eminem‘s Shady label. Yelawolf’s music is characterized by multisyllabic flows and lyrics inspired by rural poverty and Southern Gothic themes. In 2019, he parted ways with Shady after the release of Trunk Muzik III, leading to a phase of prolific collaborations with artists like Riff Raff, Caskey, DJ Muggs, and Shooter Jennings for the album Sometimes Y.
Yelawolf’s journey in the music industry began with his independent debut album Creekwater in 2005, followed by a promotional single, ‘Kickin” in 2007 under Sony BMG. Despite disillusionment with major labels, Yelawolf regrouped in the underground scene, building his audience through MySpace and mixtapes. His alliance with artists like Eminem and Travis Barker led to the release of his official debut, Radioactive, in 2011. Subsequent collaborations with artists such as Kid Rock, Lil Jon, and Gangsta Boo further showcased his talent and versatility in music.
Over the years, Yelawolf continued to evolve artistically, collaborating with Travis Barker on EP Psycho White and embarking on tours with artists like Hopsin and DJ Paul. His album Love Story, released in 2015, marked a significant milestone in his career, featuring Eminem’s production and a special appearance on ‘Best Friend’. Yelawolf’s musical journey culminated in the release of projects like Trial by Fire and Trunk Muzik III, highlighting his growth and creativity. His diverse discography includes country-rock projects like Sometimes Y, reflecting his expansive artistry and commitment to pushing boundaries in music.