Biography
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Born
4 June 1970 (age 53)
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Born In
Pontiac, Oakland County, Michigan, United States
Devin the Dude is a Houston-area rapper. Though relatively well-known among the underground hip-hop community during the mid-to-late 90's, Devin did not achieve mainstream success until his appearance on Dr. Dre's 2001 album. Besides sex, relationships, ridin' trucks, smokin' reefer, drinkin' beer, partying, and conscious or proverbial themes, much of Devin's work is also light-hearted and comically self-deprecating.
Copeland started out as a member of the Odd Squad, later known as the Coughee Brothaz, a group of rappers signed to Rap-A-Lot Records. The label is notable for being the home of hip-hop artists such as Geto Boys, Scarface, and Too Much Trouble. Copeland moved on to become part of Scarface's Facemob, before going solo in 1998. Copeland has released six solo albums: The Dude (1998), Just Tryin' ta Live (2002), To tha X-Treme (2004), Waitin' to Inhale (2007), Landing Gear (2008), and Gotta Be Me (2010). He also made a number of guest appearances, including on Dr. Dre's "Fuck You" in 1999, and De La Soul's "Baby Phat" in 2001.
In 2008, he ended his 15 year relationship with Houston based Rap-A-Lot Records because the label failed to renew his contract. Later that year, he signed with indie label Razor & Tie.
Despite being a critical success, Devin the Dude has not achieved success in the mainstream but continues to be a well-known underground hip-hop artist. The New York Times has called him "A brilliant oddball with a spaced-out flow." In addition, he has been called "Rap's best-kept secret" and "Your favorite rapper's favorite rapper." In 2007, he appeared in a documentary titled Screwed In Houston produced by VBS/Vice Magazine that details the history of the Houston rap scene.
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