NOLA native, Rapper Dee-1, born David Augustine, Jr., has taken the hip hop game by storm. This well-educated rapper graduated from Louisiana State University in 2008 and proceeded to become a middle school math teacher over in a Baton Rouge. The rapper dabbled in a bit of rap here and there throughout his college years and managed to release three mixtapes before the year of 2008 came to an end: It’s Only Tha Beginning, Still We Rise, I Am Who I Am. In 2009, he released his first studio album, David & Goliath. Before the 2010-2011 school year was over, Augustine resigned from teaching and was awarded as Artist of the Year by the NOLA Undergroud Hip Hop Awards in 2010.
Dee-1 has received recognition from some of the top national media outlets including CNN, Billboard, Vibe, The Source, XXL, Hip Hop Wired, Ebony, Complex and much more. Dee-1 has, too, be featured in local Louisiana newspapers and music magazines. The rapper has worked with nationally touring acts: Drake, Lupe Fiasco, Lil’ Wayne, Musiq Soulchild, Mya, Akon, Trey Songz and much more. He has also toured with Killer Mike, Young Dro, rap group Pac Div and has opened up for Macklemore. His single, “Jay, 50, Weezy”, has received the most notoriety, centering around artists Jay-Z, 50 Cent, and Lil’ Wayne. With more than half a million YouTube views and features on MTV Jams, the song hosts imaginary conversations with each artist about how much impact they have on future generations.
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On October 29, 2013, Dee-1 officially announced his signing to RCA Inspiration, formerly known as Verity Gospel Music Group. RCA Inspiration is the label home to Christian artists such as Kirk Franklin, Hezekiah Walker, Donnie McClurkin. As an artist, Dee-1 aspires to discuss the issues in today’s urban society and raise awareness of today’s reality through rap, using graphic imagery without the utilization.
“Signing with RCA Inspiration is a life-changing partnership. I know we’re about to make history together. Coming from New Orleans, I realize that my success is bigger than me,” shares the humble rapper. “It’s a symbol of hope for others who want to chase their dreams and make a difference in life”.
With nearly 900 downloads via HotNewHipHop, Dee-1 released his latest mixtape, Free Lunch and Sallie Mae, on June 23, 2014. His latest mixtape features production by Justen Williams, Flight School, Tha Box Bangas, much more.
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Dee-1 is definitely the talk of the town and creating major buzz in the hip hop world. His faith as a Christian and talent as a lyricist will be his harness as he climbs to the top of the mainstream music industry.
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