Jay Rock, the First of Top Dawg Entertainment

Early Life and Career

Born Johnny Reed McKinzie Jr. on March 31, 1986, Jay Rock grew up in the Watts neighborhood of Los Angeles. His passion for music began at a young age, and he started rapping in his early teens. In 2005, he joined Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), a record label founded by Anthony "Top Dawg" Tiffith that would later become home to Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, and Ab-Soul.

Rise to Fame

Jay Rock released his debut studio album, Follow Me Home, in 2011 to critical acclaim. The album featured the hit single "I Need a Dollar," which peaked at number 82 on the Billboard Hot 100. In 2015, he released 90059, which debuted at number 1 on the US Billboard 200. The album was praised for its raw and introspective lyrics, and it featured collaborations with Kendrick Lamar and Isaiah Rashad. Jay Rock has consistently released high-quality music throughout his career, and he has earned a loyal following for his unique flow and relatable storytelling. He has collaborated with numerous artists, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and J. Cole. In addition to his music career, Jay Rock has also appeared in several films, including Straight Outta Compton and Nappily Ever After.