Famous for having some of the richest soil in the world, Belle Glade, Florida not only produces most of the country’s sugarcane but also one of the most innovative artists of the new millennium. Hailing from this overlooked corner of the map, rapper/producer Papaduck has been rippin’ stages across the map and building a groundswell of support in the streets the rap game hasn’t seen in years. Backed by respected music veteran Bigga Rankin and Florida’s Big Spenda Ent., the underground legend has built his fan base the old fashion way, connecting directly with the people through grassroots hustlin’. A hip-hop star in the making that can create bangin’ tracks and gutter lyrics, Papaduck had to overcome many of life’s hurdles to make it to this point. Surrounded by poverty, he found himself swept up in the streets at an early age and wound up kicked out of high school. With his life spiraling out of control and towards an inevitable dead end, Papaduck received some impactful advice from his older brother BJ, who had his own issues with the law and stepped in to steer the wayward teen in a different direction. It was at that point that Papaduck left the thug life alone for good and turned to music.
Purchasing a used keyboard from a local pawnshop, Papaduck began producing and writing his own records. Finding his calling as an artist, he did shows throughout his hometown and signed his first deal with an indie label at just 16-years old. In 1998, Papaduck released his self-produced CD, Life Is What It Is. Taking time out to further perfect his sound, he returned in 2003 with Muck City, a solid collection of trill songs that speak to the realities of his hood and how we all struggle to survive. An underground Florida classic, the album caught the attention of DJ Bigga Rankin, who went on to host Papaduck’s 2005 mixtape, Welcome To My Hood, which sold over 50,000 copies in the Southeast alone. Inspired by his continued success, Papaduck founded Island Boy Ent. with childhood friend John John and used his Midas touch behind the boards to craft hits for other Florida artists, including Granddaddy Souf, Triple J and Toe Down.
Slowly but surely Papaduck’s name started ringing bells throughout the industry and in 2007 he linked up with super producer Mannie Fresh for their smash hit, “Money All Around.” That was followed by production credits on Plies’ gold-selling album, The Real Testament. With his profile steadily on the rise in the streets and the music industry, Papaduck dropped a self-titled disc, which produced even more hit singles like “Fuck Boy,” “Pretty Ass Car” and “Good Pussy” featuring Trina. At the top of 2008 Papaduck returned with his fifth project, 1804 Freedom or Death, followed by “Work It,” his collaboration with reggae legend Junior Reid, and an appearance on DJ Smallz’s compilation album, Up In Smoke, which led to a successful college tour that added even more fuel to his blazing buzz outside of Florida. Capitalizing off his increased popularity and cult following, Papaduck launched his own fashion line, Mama Duck Clothing and Apparel, and Papaduck Vision Films. Always keeping an eye on the budding star’s career moves, Bigga Rankin, who was appointed president of Big Spenda Ent. in late ’08, made sure one of his first acts of power was signing Papaduck. Now affiliated with a powerful company that can catapult him further into the national spotlight, the charismatic rapper continues to make his impact felt throughout the music industry.
As a set up for his next LP, the highly anticipated The Streets is Mine, Papaduck dropped a pre-album featuring high profile guests ranging from Scarface to Lil Boosie and Ace Hood. He also connected with Atlanta rap star Gucci Mane for the 2009 street anthem “Cocaine Money.” The hypnotic track showcases Papaduck’s ability to construct club bangers with a gritty edge. Then there’s his undeniable smash record “Look at My Swagg” featuring Rick Ross. Holding his own alongside the Miami Boss, Papaduck pops his collar and stakes his claim as one of the best to ever do it. “Name another underground rapper hotter than me,” he boasts over the triumphant track. A triple threat that writes, produces and engineers his own music, Papaduck is definitely in a class by himself. Not only is he a well-rounded performer and producer, but also a savvy businessman. In addition to developing his own artist, Lost Child, Papaduck completed his latest film, Duckmentary, to give fans a candid look at his day-to-day life and rise from the slums of Muck City to becoming one of hip-hop’s hottest unsigned acts. With Big Spenda Ent. behind him, it won’t be long before Papaduck is as rich as the soil that birthed him.
