Capone (rapper)

Capone, born Kiam Holley in Queens, New York, is an American rapper best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Capone-N-Noreaga (C-N-N). He gained prominence in the mid-1990s during the rise of East Coast hardcore hip-hop.

Career:

Capone's career began in the early 1990s. His initial exposure came through features on mixtapes and local hip-hop circuits. He solidified his position in the hip-hop landscape after forming Capone-N-Noreaga with fellow Queens rapper Noreaga (now known as N.O.R.E.).

Capone-N-Noreaga (C-N-N):

Capone-N-Noreaga achieved significant commercial success with their debut album, The War Report, released in 1997. The album is considered a classic of the hardcore hip-hop genre, featuring gritty lyrics and vivid depictions of street life in Queensbridge. Key tracks include "T.O.N.Y. (Top of New York)," which became a signature song for the duo.

The group faced legal issues and incarceration of Capone, impacting their recording and touring schedule. Despite these challenges, they released several more albums, including The Reunion (2000) and Channel 10 (2009).

Solo Work:

While primarily known for his work with Noreaga, Capone has also pursued solo projects. These projects have generally been less commercially successful than the duo's work, but allowed him to explore his individual artistic vision and lyrical style.

Musical Style and Influence:

Capone is recognized for his hard-hitting delivery, often characterized by a deep voice and aggressive flow. His lyrics typically address themes of street life, crime, and the challenges faced by individuals in urban environments. He is considered influential within the Queensbridge hip-hop scene and a key figure in the development of East Coast hardcore rap.