Happy Birthday, Lil Durk!

From the dangerous streets of Chicago's Englewood area comes Lil Durk, a hardened lyricist with an ear for indelible songs. The young talent turns 23 years old today (Oct. 19).

Lil Durk was part of the wave of young Chicago artists exposed by Chief Keef's mainstream prominence. He didn't officially sign to Glory Boyz Entertainment, but he did quickly make a name for himself. Being affiliated with French Montana's Coke Boyz and earning a deal with Def Jam definitely helped with his exposure.

The rapper proved his dual appeal for street anthem and mainstream hits with "Dis Ain't What U Want." The song didn't hit the charts, but critics liked it and those who listened knew it was a pretty solid major label debut. However, the momentum halted after he was arrested for allegedly throwing a 40 caliber handgun into his car in 2013. The charge was dismissed after a witness admitted the gun was his.

Despite his success, Lil Durk's prominence doesn't come without tragedy. In March, his manager OTF Chino was shot and killed in Chicago after an anti-violence event held by Chicago Bulls player Joakim Noah.

But hopefully, Lil Durk is just getting started. He released his major label debut, Remember My Name, back in June.

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