Soulja Boy

For the fictional characters, seeSoldier Boy.

"Souljah Boy" redirects here. For the Cleveland-based rapper, seeMo Thugs.

DeAndre Cortez Way(born July 28, 1990),known professionally asSoulja Boy(formerlySoulja Boy Tell 'Em), is an American rapper and record producer. He rose to prominence with his self-released 2007 debut single, "Crank That (Soulja Boy)",which peaked theBillboardHot 100for seven non-consecutive weeks.After its commercial re-release byCollipark Music,an imprint ofInterscope Records,the song and its follow-up, "Soulja Girl",both preceded the release of his debut studio album,Souljaboytellem.com(2007). Despite unfavorable critical reception, it peaked at number four on theBillboard200and spawned the single "Yahhh!"

Soulja Boy
Way in an interview withBandai Namco EntertainmentatE3 2018
Background information
Birth name	DeAndre Cortez Way
Also known as	Soulja Boy Tell 'Em Big Draco
Born	(1990-07-28)July 28, 1990 Chicago, Illinois,U.S.
Origin	Atlanta, Georgia,U.S.
Genres	Hip hop pop rap snap trap
Occupations	Rapper songwriter record producer actor
Discography	Soulja Boy discography
Years active	2004–present
Labels	Stacks on Deck Collipark Interscope
Children	1
Website	souljaboy.live

His second album,iSouljaBoyTellem(2008)—supported by theBillboardHot 100-top 20 singles "Turn My Swag On"and"Kiss Me thru the Phone"(featuringSammie)—was met with moderate commercial reception and a further decline in critical reception. Way was listed at number 18 on theForbeslist of Hip-Hop Cash Kings of 2010, as he earned US$7 million that year.His third album,The DeAndre Way(2010)—supported by the top 40 single "Pretty Boy Swag"—saw a steeper decline in commercial reception, leading him to part ways with Interscope in favor of anindependentcareer.

Way is noted for his pioneering use of grassrootssocial mediaanddigital marketingstrategies during his mainstream popularity.Outside of recording, he has pursued side ventures includingvideo game development,record productionfor other artists, and his record labelStacks on Deck Entertainment,through which he has signed rappers includingLil BandRiff Raff.He has received aGrammy Awardnomination, as well as threeBET Awardand fourTeen Choice Awardnominations.

Early life

Way was born inChicago,Illinois,and at age six moved toAtlanta,Georgia,where he became interested inrap music.At age 14, he moved toBatesville, Mississippi,with his father.

Musical career

2004–2007: Early recordings and building an Internet following

Way's father provided arecording studiofor Way to explore his musical ambitions.In early 2005, he was a frequent poster on the websiteNewgrounds,and in November that same year, Way posted on the music websiteSoundClick.Following positive reviews on the site, he established accounts onYouTubeandMyspace.In March 2007, he released his first independent album,Unsigned and Still Major: Da Album Before Da Album.

2007–2011:Souljaboytellem.com,iSouljaBoyTellem,andThe DeAndre Way

Soulja Boy performing "Crank That (Soulja Boy)"in February 2008.

Also in March 2007, Way recorded "Crank That (Soulja Boy)",followed by a low-budget video demonstrating the" Crank That "dance. On May 2," Crank That "was released as a single; by month's end, it had received its first airplay, and Way met withMr. Colliparkto sign a recording contract with his record label Collipark Music, which later entered a joint venture withInterscope Recordsshortly after.On August 12, "Crank That" was used on the television seriesEntourage,and on September 1 it topped the USBillboardHot 100andHot RingMasterscharts.During the50th Annual Grammy Awards,"Crank That (Soulja Boy)" was nominated forBest Rap Song,losing toKanye West's andT-Pain's "Good Life".

Way's major label debut album,Souljaboytellem.com,was released in the United States on October 2,peaking at number four on both theBillboard200andTop R&B/Hip-Hop Albumscharts.The album was reportedly recorded using just the demo version ofFL Studio.Souljaboytellem.comreceived a favorable review fromAllmusicbut mainly negative reviews from other sources, such asEntertainment Weekly.Several reviewers credited Soulja Boy with spearheading a new trend in hip-hop, while speculating that he would be aone-hit wonder.

The follow-up toSouljaboytellem.com,iSouljaBoyTellem,was released on December 16, 2008, to negative critical reception.The first single from the album, "Bird Walk",peaked at number 40 on theBillboardHot R&B/Hip-Hop Songschart and the top 20 on theHot Rap Trackschart. It was performed onYouTube Liveon November 22, 2008, with an introduction fromMC Hammer."Kiss Me Thru the Phone"(featuringSammie) followed, peaking at number three on the Hot 100 and number one on the Hot Rap Tracks charts.Chris Brownwas Way's first choice to sing the hook, but respectfully turned down the offer. Way then tried to do it on his own withAuto-Tunebut found it unacceptable.The song sold over 2 million digital copies in the U.S., becoming Way's second to reach two million downloads.On January 26, 2009, Way released the third single, "Turn My Swag On".It topped the U.S. rap charts and peaked at number 19 on theBillboardHot 100. As of August 23, 2009,it has sold more than 1 million digital downloads in the U.S.

Soulja Boy atYouTube Livein November 2008.

Way said his third studio album,The DeAndre Way,was intended to be his most personal and successful album thus far. He said he wished to collaborate with artists such asJay-Z,Lil Wayne,Kanye WestandEminem.The album's lead single, "POW", was released in January 2009 but failed to garner success and was dubbed a promo single. On October 30, 2009, Way released three mixtapes:Paranormal Activity,Dat PiffandCortez.It was announced on February 18, 2010, that the first single from the album was going to be "All Black Everything", but the single was canceled and the track was put on another promotional mixtape,Legendary.The album's title was changed toDrein an early 2010 commercial with a video snippet for "Do It Big" as the first single, but this was also canceled.The album title reverted toThe DeAndre Wayin July 2010.

Soulja Boy in 2010

On June 8, 2010, the album's official lead single was "Pretty Boy Swag".It reached number 34 on theBillboardHot 100, number six on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number five on the Rap Songs chart.The album's second single was due to be "Digital", which was instead used on his promotional mixtapeBest Rapper.Then it was announced that "Speakers Going Hammer"was going to be the second single, but"Blowing Me Kisses"was released on August 31, 2010, as the second single instead.On October 13, Way performed "Pretty Boy Swag" and a snippet of "Speakers Going Hammer". On October 19, 2010, he released "Speakers Going Hammer" on iTunes; it peaked at number 48 on theBillboardHot R&B/Hip Hop Songs.Way backed out of theSummerbeatztour in Australia in November 2010, where he was to have performed alongsideFlo Rida,Jay SeanandTravie McCoy,in order to embark on his "Who They Want" tour in support of his upcoming album.The DeAndre Waywas released on November 30, 2010, and has so farsold only 70,000 copies, making it Way's lowest-selling album.

2011–2018: Mixtapes, EPs, independent albums, andLoyalty

In 2011, Way released a series of mixtapes. The first, on January 22, was titledSmookyand had cartoon cover art of Way doing a 360 on a bicycle.On March 17, Way released the mixtape1UPwhich had cover art based on theNarutoanime,with Way stating: "If I was in a video game, this mixtape would advance me to the next level with an extra life. Power up with the new offering."On April 20, Way released his mixtapeJuicewith cover art based on thefilm of the same name.Way said he would also release a mini-movie of his own to go along with the mixtape, and that he was headed to greatness with the mixtape.On July 15, Way released hisEPmixtape titledBernaurd Arnault EP (Limited Edition).Then on August 1, Way released another ep mixtape titled21: EP.On August 31, Way released the mixtapeThe Last Crown,the cover of the mixtape is based on the artwork theFlammarion Engraving.In September 2011, Way confirmed that he is working on a new album,Promise,which would be released in October.Way also released the cover and title of his second independent album via Twitter, titledSkate Boy,with a notice that it would be available in stores on November 1.On September 19, Way released the mixtapeSupreme.On October 30,Skate Boy (Deluxe Edition)was released as a mixtape, rather than an album.On December 30, 2011, Way released another mixtape titledGold On Deck.

In 2012, Way released additional mixtapes while his album continued to be delayed. On January 9, Way released a mixtape for the beginning of the year, titled50/13,with the cover based on that ofASAP Rocky's mixtapeLive. Love. ASAP.On January 24, Way released a collaboration mixtape with his artist Young L titledMario & Domo vs. the Worldwith cover art based on the video gameSuper Mario Bros.On March 23, Way released a mixtape titledOBEYwhich featured the promotional single "Too Faded".On June 3, 2012, Way talked about his upcoming albumPromiseand said he has released so many mixtapes in the last two years because he feels he has to put out a lot of music and be as creative as possible.On June 11, Way released another collaboration mixtape with rapper Vinny Chase titledDouble Cup City.On September 4, Way released the sequel mixtapeJuice II,in which Way returned to his old production style with the beginning lines "Soulja Boy Tell 'Em". It is Way's most-downloaded mixtape.His mixtape titledYoung & Flexinwas released on November 6.On December 25, 2012, Way releasedLOUD,which was his first mixtape distributed on iTunes.

2013 was marked by further album delays while Way's record deal expired, and he continued to release mixtapes. On February 22, Way released his first mixtape of the year, titledForeign.In March, it was rumored that Way was signing toCash Money Recordsafter getting a face tattoo saying "Rich Gang" the same weekend he was seen with his manager and Cash Money artistsBirdmanandBow Wow.This continued after he added "Rich Gang" or "YMCMB" to his social media platforms. Way had earlier reported that he was no longer with Interscope Records after his record deal ended in February.Way also announced that his albumPromisehad been retitledUSA DRE.On March 15, he released the first single from the album, titled "Handsome".Following that, on March 25, he released the EP,All Black.On April 24, Way released his mixtapeForeign 2.Three days later, Way revealed the cover art to his next mixtape titledKing Souljawhich was released on May 5.On May 26, Way released his second EP titledCuban Link.On June 13, Way announced another album title change, toLife After Fame,and that it would be released to stores on July 30, 2013.On June 25, Way released his first single from the album titled "Ridin Round" to iTunes, but it was later dubbed a promotional single.On June 30, Way releasedLife After Fameas a mixtape instead of an album.On September 24, Way released his mixtape titled23.On November 30, Way released his mixtapeThe King.On December 28, 2013, rapper/singerDrakecollaborated and remixed Way's intro track "We Made It" from his mixtapeThe King.

In 2014, Way continued work on his fourth studio album while collaborating with other artists and releasing additional mixtapes. On March 18, Way released his first mixtape of the year titledKing Soulja 2.On April 20, Way released his firstdigital albumSuper Dope,featuring an appearance from rapperBusta Rhymes.On May 19, Way produced, co-wrote and was featured onNicki Minaj's promotional single "Yasss Bish",which received positive reviews from music critics.On June 8, Way announced that he was currently working on his new mixtape projectKing Soulja 3,which would feature appearances fromLil Wayne,Drake,Migos,Young ThugandWiz Khalifa.On June 29, Way releasedKing Soulja 3as his second digital album via iTunes, featuring appearances fromGudda Guddaand Rich The Kid.On October 31, Way released his mixtapeYoung Millionaire,featuring appearances fromSean Kingston,Cap.1 and Rich The Kid.On November 17, Way announced via his Instagram that he had signed a new label deal withUniversal Music Groupand also revealed the title, cover art and release date for his fourth studio album,Loyalty,originally scheduled for release on December 2, 2014, but pushed back to February 3, 2015.

In 2015, following the release of his fourth studio album,Loyalty,Way released additional singles, mixtapes and a digital album. For this upcoming digital album,King Soulja 4,Way released the single "Whippin My Wrist (Too Rich)" on February 27; it charted on theBillboardTrending 140at number 48.On May 16, Way released his mixtapeSwag The Mixtapefeaturing appearances fromMigos,Peewee Longway,Troy Ave,Johnny Cinco,Chief Keef,Pack Strong, Paul Allen, Chella H, Calico Jonez andKyle Massey.On May 26, fellow Atlanta, Georgia artistRich The Kidannounced that he and Way would be releasing a collaboration album titledGet Rich.On June 3, via Twitter, Way revealed the title, cover art and release date to his upcoming fifth studio album,Blessed,which was scheduled for release on July 28, 2015, but experienced several delays.On June 30, Way released a mixtape titled25 The Movie.On July 17, Way released a new single titled "Actavis" featuring Migos, taken from his fourth digital albumKing Soulja 4.On July 23, Way released his mixtape titledM & M: Money and Music.On July 30, through his independent label Stacks on Deck Entertainment, Way released his fourth digital album,King Soulja 4,featuring appearances from Migos, ReeseMoneyBagz, Dae Dot and Sean Kingston.On September 1, Way released the single "Diddy Bop".On September 24, Way released a single titled "Gratata" along with an accompanying music video.On September 28, Way released the mixtapePlug Talk.On November 9, Way premiered a single titled "Make It Rain".On November 24, Way released a mixtape titledS. Beezy.

In 2016, Way released his fifth and sixth digital albums and various mixtapes, singles and videos. On January 14, he released the single "Drop The Top"; on January 24, he premiered its video.On January 24, he released the standalone single "Stephen Curry", named for theNBA player,and on February 6, he released a video for the song.On February 10, he released another mixtape,Finesse EP.On February 14, he released the mixtapeKing Soulja 5,the fifth installment in hisKing Souljamixtape/album series.On March 15, through his independent label, he released his fifth digital album,Stacks On Deck,featuring Agoff, King Reefa, Lil Yachty and Rich The Kid.On May 12, he released the single "Day One".On June 9, through his label Stacks on Deck Entertainment, he released his sixth digital album,Better Late Than Never,featuringLil Twistand Lil Yachty.On July 23, he released the single "Rockstar".On July 31, he released the mixtapeRockstar.On August 23, he released the sequel mixtapeS. Beezy 2.On September 14, he released the single "Max Payne".On September 24, he released the single "Hit Them Folks".On September 26, he released the single "I'm Up Now" featuringChief Keef.On September 29, he released the mixtapeKing Soulja 6,the sixth installment in hisKing Souljamixtape/album series.On October 25, 2016, Way and Bow Wow released a joint retail mixtape,Ignorant Shit.

2018–present:Breakfast Clubinterview andHow Can You Blame Me?

Soulja Boy performing at a concert in January 2019.

In late 2018, Way went on Instagram Live and responded to fan comments suggesting Tyga had the biggest comeback of any artist in 2018. Way angrily claimed he had had the biggest comeback, with a snippet of the video going viral that same day.Later in early 2019, Way made an appearance on the radio showThe Breakfast Club,where he defended his statements. A snippet of Way responding to a question about fellow musicianDrakebecame a viral meme following the interview.

Way continued to release singles and two mix-tapes throughout 2019, releasing the first mix-tape,Fuego,on January 10,and the second mix-tape,Tell Ya,on March 25.Way announced on January 18, 2019, he was working on his fifth studio album titledHow Can You Blame Me?,(originally titledBlessed), with the album set to be released on July 28. The album was delayed for unknown reasons following Way's 2019 incarceration.On July 28, 2020, following his rising success as aTwitchstreamer,Way released the mixtapeKing Soulja 9,followed by several singles throughout 2020. In late November 2020, Way released the mixtapeSwag 3,and continued to release several singles such asPandemicandCEOat the start of 2021.On February 1, 2021, Way released the mixtapeSoulja World,which features frequent collaboratorLil B.In April 2021, Soulja Boy signed a record deal withVirgin Music.

Musical style

Speaking on his rudimentary rapping technique and vacuous lyrical style, in a November 2010 interview withXXL Magazine,while Way was explaining how he has grown as anemceehe stated:

I can't keep playin' around, because if you keep playin' around, people are gonna think you're a joke... At some point, you have to get serious. But don't get it twisted, Soulja doesn't wanna be the nextLupe Fiasco.I don't want to be super-Lupe-Fiasco-lyrical and niggas don't know what the fuck I'm talking about, "he added." I want to be the best, "he continued." I want to be recognized in that category where I'm nominated for Best Rapper withJay-ZandKanyeandWayne.I wanna get aGrammy.I want Best Rap Album of the Year... I've made millions of dollars off of doing my style, but, hey, I can rap, too.

On December 5, 2010, Way clarified this statement that Lupe Fiasco was too "lyrical", explaining that he wanted to keep the rudimentary music style he developed and justified why he doesn't keep a lyrically based flow and more substantially profound lyrical subject matter on every song.According to Way:

[XXL Magazine] didn't [publish] my whole statement. And basically, the interviewer dude, he was asking me why do I make lyrical songs like 'Only God Knows,' 'Born'... 'The World So Cold,' and why do I make non-lyrical songs like 'Crank That' and 'Pretty Boy Swag'? And he was like, why don't I just be lyrical all the time? And I was telling him on [a] specific song, like 'Pretty Boy Swag,' I ain't wanna be all lyrical. I just wanted to be straight-up, and just be simple, [so] people can get what I'm saying 'cause it's a club song. But I wasn't saying as far as my whole music [output, with] all of my songs, that I don't wanna be rappin' like Lupe Fiasco.

Way further clarified there was no animosity between him and Fiasco and that the two had planned to record a song together.

Way's music has been banned from some school dancesfor alleged sexual or violent content and/or innuendos.In the original YouTube video for "Shootout", Way demonstrates his dance while holding a handgun in each hand and pretending to shoot into the audience.

Other ventures

Stacks on Deck Entertainment

Stacks on Deck Entertainment
Founded	2004
Founder	DeAndre "Soulja Boy" Way (CEO) Michael "Miami Mike" Sykes (President)
Status	Active
Genre	Hip hop Southern hip hop
Country of origin	United States
Location	Atlanta, Georgia(2007–11) Los Angeles, California(2012–present)

Way founded his record label Stacks on Deck Entertainment (SODMG) in 2004 while he was signed toInterscopeandCollipark Music.Since founding the label, he has signed various artists. On May 30, 2016, Way announced that all artists signed to SODMG had been dropped.In 2019, Way re-signed Lil 100 and signed Atlanta artist24hrs.

Current artists:

Act	Year signed
Soulja Boy (CEO/founder)	2004
Lil 100	2011
24hrs	2019

Former artists

Act
A.Goff
John Boy
Lil B
Riff Raff
JBar/Ja-Bar
Killa Cam
Killa J
M2ThaK aka Big Keezy
Tony The Deity
Shawty Boy
Spinning 9
Bobby World
DJ Wats
Lil Justin
Paul Allen
Soulja Kid
J. Takin
Jay Lody
Jski
King Eazy
King Reefa
Lil E
Maybacc
ReeseMoneyBagz
Arab (Boss Money/SODMG)
Calico Jonez (Swish Gang/SODMG)
Dae Dot
Pack Strong
HoodBoss

Album releases:

• 2007:Unsigned and Still Major: Da Album Before Da Albumby Soulja Boy
• 2007:Souljaboytellem.comby Soulja Boy
• 2008:iSouljaBoyTellemby Soulja Boy
• 2010:The DeAndre Wayby Soulja Boy
• 2013:All Black(EP)by Soulja Boy
• 2014:Super Dopeby Soulja Boy
• 2014:King Soulja 3by Soulja Boy
• 2015:Loyaltyby Soulja Boy
• 2015:The Gold(EP)by A.Goff
• 2015:King Soulja 4by Soulja Boy
• 2016:Stacks On Deckby Soulja Boy
• 2016:Better Late Than Neverby Soulja Boy
• 2016:Rich Soulja 4 Lifeby Soulja Boy
• 2016:King Soulja 7by Soulja Boy
• 2017:Big Souljaby Soulja Boy
• 2018:King Soulja 8by Soulja Boy
• 2018:Best to Ever Do Itby Soulja Boy
• 2018:Young Drakoby Soulja Boy
• 2018:KingBy Soulja Boy
• 2019:FuegoBy Soulja Boy
• 2020:King Soulja 9By Soulja Boy
• 2020:Swag 3By Soulja Boy
• 2021:Soulja WorldBy Soulja Boy
• 2021:I Was The First RapperBy Soulja Boy
• 2021:Big Draco 2By Soulja Boy

Record production

Way also produces records, including his own, primarily using theFL Studiodigital audio workstation.In September 2007, Way producedV.I.C.'s single "Get Silly",which was certified gold, and Bow Wow's single"Marco Polo".Way's beats often contain the beginning lines" Soulja Boy Tell 'em ", but as of late Way has produced beats without these lines. In 2009, it was reported that Way would be producing forKanye West's fourth studio album,My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,and Kanye would be producing for Way's third studio album,The DeAndre Way,but for unknown reasons neither of them used each other's beats.On May 13, 2011, Way said he had produced and submitted beats for50 Cent's fifth studio album,Street King Immortal.In 2013, Way also produced on the track "Wowzers" ofLil Wayne's albumI Am Not a Human Being II.On May 6, 2014, during an interview, Way announced that he was producing forDiddy's upcoming albumM.M.M.and also forLil Wayne's upcoming albumTha Carter V.Soulja Boy also produced the song "Yasss Bish"onNicki Minaj's albumThe Pinkprint.In April 2016, Soulja Boy received a writing credit on Beyoncé's visual albumLemonade.

Fashion designing

On March 5, 2008, Way launched his fashion line of "S.O.D Clothing".That same year Way released his own brand of the popular shoe line "Yums".On February 14, 2012, Way and fashion designer D. Young created the official clothing line "Ocean Gang".In 2012, Way released another line he created, "BLVD. Supply"; the store is located in Los Angeles, California.

Acting career

On January 7, 2009, Soulja Boy announced that he was to be releasing his own cartoon,Soulja Boy: The Animated Series,but only one episode was released.

In August 2010, Soulja Boy announced a desire to make a film about himself, having toldMTV Newsthat he discussed the idea withNick Cannon.He was later approached by Peter Spirer, who presented his own concept for adocumentaryabout the artist.Directed by Spirer,Soulja Boy: The Moviewas releaseddirect-to-videoon October 18, 2011, a date that coincided with Soulja Boy's arrest on a drug charge.The film contains live performances from hisDeAndre Way Tourand interviews with his father and current and former members of Stacks on Deck Entertainment.The documentary's visual quality was panned byDVD Verdictas a result of poor video transfer, since much of its music detail was taken fromYouTubeclips.

On April 22, 2011, Way announced that he would make his acting debut playing the main role of Bishop in theJuiceremake and that it would air onBET.

In 2013, Way announced and confirmed that he was guest-starring in the upcoming movieOfficer Down.On November 12, 2021, he announced upcoming roles on ATL and an upcoming movie role with Machine Gun Kelly.

World Poker Fund Holdings

In May 2016, Soulja Boy signed a deal from World Poker Fund Holdings for five years.World Poker Fund is a builder and operator of online and event-based social gaming platforms and imprints.Soulja said of the deal: "I enjoy music, and of course gaming. Being an influencer is a form of currency."Way initially tweeted that the deal was for $400 million; however, that is the cap for the contract and not his payment from the company.

SouljaGamevideo game console

In December 2018, Soulja Boy patented avideo game consolecalled theSouljaGame.It drew criticism for being an "overpriced"emulatorofNintendoandSegahandheld games,which were actually rebranded versions of existing consoles developed by Chinese companyAnbernic.On December 15, 2018, he announced the release of two more consoles: theRetro SouljaBoy Mini,which resembles a NintendoGame Boy,and theSouljaGame Fuze,which looks similar to Microsoft'sXbox Oneand Sony'sPlayStation 4.As of December 30, 2018, Soulja Boy has pulled the SouljaGame consoles off his store amid threats of a lawsuit from Nintendo.On January 12, 2019, Soulja Boy released another handheld on his SouljaWatch website called theSouljaGame Handheld;this console looks similar in appearance to Sony'sPlayStation Vita.

Feuds

Ice-T

In June 2008, on DJ Cisco'sUrban Legendmixtape,Ice-Ttold Way to "eat a dick" and criticized Way for "killing hip-hop" and his song "Crank That" for being "garbage" compared to the works of other hip-hop artists such asRakim,Das EFX,Big Daddy KaneandIce Cube.The two then traded videos back and forth over the Internet.RapperKanye Westdefended Way by arguing that he had created a new, original hip-hop work, thus keeping the authentic meaning of the music.The feud was parodied in a 2010 episode ofThe Boondocks.

In May 2011, Way's feud with Ice-T somewhat reignited over the filmJuice.Way said he would release a movie of his own to go along with his mixtape of the same name, following a statement during Ice-T's interview with Shade 45 in late April 2011. Ice-T said that Way's role as Bishop, which was famously originated by rapperTupac Shakur,was not an issue. But Ice-T found it problematic that the film was being remade, saying "What? But that's Pac... At some point, somebody gotta stop it. I came out. I made some statements. Man, I don't know. Do you, dude, do you. If the masses accept it, it shows you the state we're in... Come on man, you think I'd try to remake Pac's movie? Good luck though, I'm not a hater... eh. "Way barraged Ice-T with retaliatory tweets on the same day, saying someone should" get this guy a hairline. "

Charles Hamilton

On December 9, 2008,Charles Hamiltonsaid in an interview that Way was making it more difficult for new artists to be signed.Way responded, "X out theSonicand fuck withMario,you might want to got damn eat a mushroom "(Hamilton is a big fan of Sonic the Hedgehog, dedicating a whole mixtape depicting himself as the titular character).Hamilton responded with a diss song, "I'm You Last Year With Talent",followed by another, "Word Aight".

Bow Wow

On February 2, 2009, Way challengedBow Wowto a race in theirLamborghinisand claimed Bow Wow's Lamborghini was a rental.On February 4, Bow Wow proved that he owned his Lamborghini and said "its halloween in Bankhead for you everyday nigga... you scared... you all nervous and shit ". Way responded on Twitter by saying" HE FUCKED UP!!!! IM BOUT TO SHITTTT ON THIS NIGGA!! LOL!!!!! "On February 7, both artists sentdiss songsto each other, such as Way's "Fuck Bow Wow" and Bow Wow's "What I Think About You".Later that day during a phone conversation both rappers settled their differences.In 2016, they released a joint mixtape titledIgnorant Shit.

U.S. Armed Forces

In September 2011, Way released the song "Let's Be Real". One of the lines of the song is:"Fuck the FBI and fuck all the army troops / Fighting for what? Bitch, be your own man / I'll be flying through the clouds with green like I'm Peter Pan."After the song was released, Way was criticized by military members and their families, especially in regard to the timing in relation to the 10th anniversary of the9/11 attacks.Way apologized, "When I expressed my frustration with the U.S. Army, not only did my words come out wrong, I was wrong to even speak them." He added, "So, I write this to give my sincerest apology to all members of the United States military services, as well as their families that were offended by my most recent lyrics."Representatives for Way indicated that the song had been pulled from his upcoming album,Promise,and would not be available for sale. They were also attempting to remove the video from the internet.

On September 6, 2011, TMZ reported that Way's album would not be sold at the 3,100 Army and Air Force base exchanges if it included the song "Let's Be Real".

Hopsin

On August 25, 2012, Way made controversial comments towards fellow rapperHopsinon one of his webcam chats with his fans, when Way stated "fuck Hopsin, I'm about to go in the studio and record this Hopsin diss real quick". Way continued on by stating the words "that nigga's a bitch, fuck that bitch-ass nigga".The situation was caused by Hopsin's controversial song "Sag My Pants"which was a direct diss towards Way with the lines" Soulja Boy you got a corny flow, So you can suck my fucking dick through a glory hole "though Way previously didn't focus on the diss.On August 28, 2012, on Way's Tinychat, Hopsin and Way confronted each other: though Hopsin admitted he liked Way, nothing was really resolved.On September 3, 2012, Way released a Hopsin diss titled "That Nigga Not Me". Hopsin stated the song was horrible, but did not respond with a diss track of his own.

Chief Keef and Ballout

On April 19, 2013, Way sent a number of death threats to Chicago rapperChief Keefvia Facebook. The threats were likely provoked by an earlier incident, where Keef's affiliate Ballout stole Way's chain and bragged about it on Twitter. Way posted both Keef's cellphone numbers, urging people to notify him he's coming for him with a gun. He continued posting, stating he's in Keef's hometown of Chicago and asking Keef and Ballout to come to him. Chief Keef responded that he is currently in London but would talk to Way on his new number. Later the same day, Way issued a statement that his Facebook,Instagramand email were hacked and none of the earlier messages were written by him.On June 1, 2014, Way revealed on hisInstagramthat he and fellow artistChief Keefhad resolved their differences. Little is known as to whether Way has settled his differences with Ballout.

Chris Brown

On January 3, 2017, Way started a squabble with singerChris Brownon social media. The feud started after Soulja Boy liked and commented a post on Brown's ex-girlfriend, modelKarrueche Tran.Soulja Boy launched an attack on his social media accounts on Chris Brown after he claimed that the R&B crooner allegedly threatened him for liking a photo of Karrueche Tran: In a slew of videos targeting Brown, he attacked Brown for his parenting skills, taunted him for his 2009 assault on his then-girlfriend Rihanna and accused him of using cocaine. The rapper later issued an apology to Brown for igniting the beef.Brown responded issuing a challenge to settle the score in a televised boxing ring, with the profits going to charity. He requested that the two fight for three rounds, instead of going back and forth on social media. Brown also mocked Soulja Boy for stirring up an "imaginary beef" and later posted his phone number on Instagram. Soulja Boy recruited boxing veteranFloyd Mayweatheras his trainer for the upcoming fight, while Chris Brown hadMike Tysontraining him.In the meantime, Brown released for free adiss trackto Soulja Boy called "500 Wayz", and Way responded with "Stop Playing with Me".Tran responded to the situation attacking Brown, the latter immediately fired back stating he is responsible for her success and the reason she has friends, some of whom he slept with.On February 21, 2017, Brown revealed in a video on his Instagram account that he chose to cancel the boxing match: "I bowed out of this Soulja Boy fight. I’mma tell you why, ’cause it was a legit thing on a positive scale. All the wrong people got in the way. The middlemen people got in the way. The homies, so to speak […] got in the way because they wanted a piece of the pie. It’s immature, first and foremost. Second of all, ain’t no n—a ever gon’ hold me up. However everything goes, this how we rocking. He gon’ see me."

In 2022, Brown revealed that him and Soulja Boy have no problems with each other.

Tyga

In early 2019, Soulja Boy drew attention for claiming he had the biggest comeback of 2018 over fellow rapperTygaon the radio showThe Breakfast Club,which started a series of exchanges between the two.The feud eventually resulted in the two trading diss tracks back and forth over the instrumental fromBlueface's song, "Thotiana".

Jake Paul

In February 2019, YouTube celebrityJake Paulpublished a tweet directed at Way, saying "i wanna box @souljaboy",to which Way responded, "boy I'll knock you out".The feud was started by Paul in reference to his participation as an undercard in theLogan Paul vs. KSIboxing fight. The two eventually confronted each other in person when Paul drove to Way's house to confirm they would have an official boxing match, which Paul had said he would bet $20 million on.Paul posted a video on YouTube the same day saying his status in the rematch between Logan Paul and KSI was undecided, leaving the status of the fight between him and Way in question.

Blueface

In December 2023 and January 2024, Way feuded with California rapperBlueface,after Blueface asserted on a podcast that he could win a hypotheticalVerzuzfreestyle battle against Way. During the feud, Way proposed that he and Blueface "meet up and die".Way announced the end of the feud on a January 20, 2024 Instagram Live stream, citing their mutual threats to harm each other in prison as proof that the situation escalated too far.

Metro Boomin

On May 12, 2024, Way sent condemnatory tweets directed at the American producerMetro Boominin response to a ridiculing 2012 tweet, mocking his mother who died in a murder–suicide. After much public backlash, Way apologized and deleted the tweets three days later.Soon after the apology, he condemned fellow rappers21 SavageandMeek Mill's support of Metro Boomin in the controversy.

Personal life

Family

On the night of March 22, 2011, Way's younger brother, Deion Jenkins, was killed in a car crash.On September 30, 2022, Way's girlfriend Jackie gave birth to their first child, a son.

Domestic violence case

Recent court proceedings have led to significant legal and financial consequences for rapper Soulja Boy, born DeAndre Cortez Way. Following a lawsuit filed by ex-girlfriend Kayla Myers, which alleged kidnapping and assault at his Malibu home in February 2019, a judge ordered in April that Soulja Boy pay $471,800, including punitive damages. The order, authorized the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department to seize various personal items from his Bell Canyon home. This includes luxury vehicles like a yellow Bentley, a red Lamborghini, a yellow Mercedes-Benz, and other valuables such as a diamond-studded neck chain with his stage name, jewelry, and any cash found, often kept in backpacks. These developments are part of a pattern of allegations against the rapper; in 2021, model Nia Riley accused him of assault during their relationship, including an incident where she was allegedly kicked in the stomach while pregnant, leading to a miscarriage.

Robbery

On December 30, 2008, Way was robbed andbatteredin his home. Initial reports indicated that the robbers were six masked men withAK-47sandpistols;however, on December 31, 2008, videos surfaced on the Internet of two masked men claiming sole credit for the crime.

Way described the incident toMTV Newsa month later: he had come home very late at night after attending an album release party and was recording songs with friends when the robbers came in pointing their guns.On January 26, 2009, during another interview, Way said it was three robbers, not six: "I got back to my house at around3 in the morning and I was in the studio recording. So two of my homeboys was in the living room and me and Arab we was in the studio recording. And somebody kicked in the door. One dude ran in put the AK to my homeboy head, put him on the floor [...] The other two ran in my homeboy jumped in the other room, so the other two dudes ran back so I peeped in the door and they running through my house with Ks and pistols so I ducked back. I really can't dwell on what happened after that, but it was a messed-up situation and I'm glad everyone made it out alive. "

Legal issues

See also:Cryptocurrency and crime

On December 9, 2007, Way wassuedby William Lyons (a.k.a. Souljah Boy ofMo Thugs Family), who created the stage name Souljah Boy in 1996.

On October 7, 2009, Way was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia, on one count of obstruction, a misdemeanor, for running from police when he'd been ordered to stop while filming a video in an abandoned house. The rapper was released on a $550 bond.

In May 2011, Way and his labels were sued by a local Pennsylvania promoter for failing to make promised payments in connection with a rescheduled concert.On October 18, 2011, Way was traveling west on I-20 inCarroll County, Georgia,with four other men when their vehicle was pulled over for a vehicle equipment violation. The police officer who made the stop searched the vehicle and found more than five ounces (140 g) of marijuana. Way was arrested and released on bond the same day.

On January 22, 2014, Way was a passenger in his vehicle when the driver ran a stop sign in theSan Fernando Valley,California, and police discovered a loaded handgun in the car. Way was arrested immediately and taken to jail.His manager claimed that a neighbor had left the gun under the seat and that Way was unaware it was there. Way admitted to owning only the vehicle, not the weapon.He was convicted and sentenced to two years' probation.On February 15, 2014, Way announced on Twitter that he was going to jail in five days. He did not give a reason. He ultimately never turned himself in to authorities and the details of his charges are unknown.

In October 2016, Way was sued by the musician Skrill Dilly for allegedly making death threats to him in a video filmed by the rapper.The same year, he received additional probation time after police found weapons at his home.On March 15, 2019, Way was arrested for violating his probation, and on April 30, he was sentenced to 8 months in prison, with credit for time served.

In 2019, Way was sued by ex-girlfriend Kayla Myers forabuseandkidnapping.The victim stated that Way "approached yelling profanities, kicked her, stomped on her stomach and bashed her head with a large gun".In 2023, Way was ordered to pay the ex-girlfriend $471,800 in damages, and she was authorized to "seize and levy upon" some of his property such as cars and jewelry.

On January 21, 2021, Way was sued by an unnamed former personal assistant of his who alleged that he locked her in a room, physically and verbally abused her, and repeatedlyrapedher. Way denied the allegations, with a spokesperson saying: "Soulja would never put his hands on a female. He wouldn't beat a woman or put his hands on a woman… this is nonsense."

On February 18, 2022, in a class-action lawsuit filed against thecryptocurrencycompanySafeMoonthat alleged the company is apump-and-dumpscheme, Way was named as a defendant along with professional boxerJake Paul,musicianNick Carter,rapperLil Yachty,and social media personality Ben Phillips, for promoting the SafeMoon token on theirsocial media accountswithmisleading information.On the same day, theU.S. 11th Circuit Court of Appealsruled in a lawsuit againstBitconnectthat theSecurities Act of 1933extends totargeted solicitationusing social media.

In November 2024, RapperPliessued Way, Megan Thee Stallion, andGlorillaover his song "Me & My Goons" for sampling it while the track was still infringed on Way's "Pretty Swag Boy."

Legacy

Way is known for having the first single to sell over three million digital copies, his debut single "Crank That (Soulja Boy)".

Way has garnered popularity through the use ofsocial media.Since 2006, hisYouTubechannel has accumulated 1.9 billion views and more than 3.3 million subscribers.Way was one of the first rappers to capitalize on social media for marketing at the beginning of his career.

Discography

Main article:Soulja Boy discography

Studio albums

• Souljaboytellem.com(2007)
• iSouljaBoyTellem(2008)
• The DeAndre Way(2010)
• King Soulja 3(2014)
• Loyalty(2015)
• Best to Ever Do It(2018)
• Young Draco(2018)
• Big Draco(2021)
• Big Draco 2(2021)
• Big Draco 3(2022)

Tours

• America's Most Wanted Tour (2009)

Filmography

Film
Year	Film	Role	Notes
2007	YouTube Live	Himself	Small role
2008	What's at Stake?	Himself	Small role
2009	School Gyrls	Himself	Cameo
2010	Malice N Wonderland	Soulja	Small role
2011	Soulja Boy: The Movie	Himself	Documentary on his life
2013	Officer Down	Rudy	Supporting role
Television
Year	Title	Role	Notes
2007	The Ellen DeGeneres Show	Himself
	Last Call with Carson Daly	Himself
2008	Live with Regis	Himself	Minor appearance
	Access Granted	Himself	For his music video for "Bird Walk"
	My Super Sweet 16	Himself
2009	The Game	Ray Ray	Episode: "I Want It All and I Want It Now"
2010	When I Was 17	Himself
	The Mo'Nique Show	Himself
	Late Night with Jimmy Fallon	Himself
	Lopez Tonight	Himself
	The Tonight Show with Jay Leno	Himself
2012	The DUB Magazine Project	Himself
2013	The Bachelorette (season 9)	Himself
2014–2016	Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood	Himself	Main role (seasons 1–2) Main/guest role (season 3)
2022	Atlanta	Himself	Episode: "Crank Dat Killer"

Awards and nominations

• BET Awards
  • 2007: Best New Artist (Nominated)
  • 2008: Viewer's Choice Award: "Crank That (Soulja Boy)"(Nominated)
  • 2009: Viewer's Choice Award: "Kiss Me Thru the Phone"(Nominated)
• BET Hip-Hop Awards
  • 2007: Best Hip-Hop Dance (Won)
• BET Social Awards
  • 2019: Social Verified Award (Won)
• Grammy Awards
  • 2008: Best Rap Song: "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" (Nominated)
• Ozone Awards
  • 2007: Patiently Waiting: Mississippi (Won)
  • 2008: Best Breakthrough Artist (Nominated)
  • 2008: TJ's DJ's Tastemaker Award (Nominated)
• Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards
  • 2007: Favorite Male Singer (Nominated)
• Teen Choice Awards
  • 2009: Choice Music: Rap Artist (Nominated)
  • 2009: Choice Music: R&B Track for "Kiss Me Thru the Phone" (Nominated)
  • 2009: Choice Music: Hook Up for "Kiss Me Thru the Phone" (Nominated)
  • 2009: Choice Music: Artist (Nominated)

See also

• List of artists who reached number one in the United States

External links

• Soulja BoyatIMDb
• Soulja BoyonYouTube