Riff Raff, born Horst Christian Simco on January 25, 1982, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his eccentric style and flamboyant persona. He hails from Houston, Texas, and gained broader public attention in the early 2010s through his association with rapper Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) and appearances in music videos and online content.
Riff Raff initially gained notoriety in underground hip-hop circles and through social media platforms, where his outlandish fashion choices and unconventional rapping style attracted a cult following. He was briefly signed to DJ Drama's Aphilliates Music Group and later became affiliated with the record label Mad Decent, founded by producer Diplo.
He released several mixtapes and independent projects, including Eismom (2012), The Great American Rap Album, Pt. 1 (2014), and Neon Icon (2014), the latter of which was released under White Party and Interscope Records. Neon Icon received mixed reviews but featured guest appearances from artists such as Mac Miller, Tyler, the Creator, and Usher.
Riff Raff has been known for making bold, often humorous claims about his lifestyle and background, which some critics and fans interpret as performance art or satire. His lyrical content frequently revolves around themes of luxury, excess, and self-mythologizing.
Accurate information on his early life, including details about his upbringing and education, is limited and often contested. Some biographical claims made by Riff Raff himself lack independent verification.
Throughout his career, Riff Raff has maintained a niche presence in hip-hop, continuing to release music independently and make appearances in digital media. He is often associated with the "vaporwave" and internet meme cultures due to his surreal aesthetic and online virality.
He has collaborated with a range of artists across genres, including Lil B, Paul Wall, and Action Bronson, further cementing his status as a distinct figure in alternative and pop-rap scenes.
Riff Raff remains active in the music industry, primarily through self-released projects and social media engagement.