| Full Name | Andre Benjamin |
|---|---|
| Age | 48 |
| Birthday | May 27, 1975 |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, United States |
| Relationship Status | Single |
| Height | 6‘ 3" (1.91 m) |
| Net Worth | $45 million |
| Social Media | Twitter, Instagram |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Andre 3000 was born Andre Benjamin on May 27, 1975 in Atlanta, Georgia. From a young age, he expressed himself through music, studying the piano and trumpet as a child. In high school, Andre met Antwan "Big Boi" Patton and the two began rapping together as a duo, eventually taking the name OutKast.
After catching the attention of Organized Noize, OutKast signed to LaFace Records and released their debut album Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik in 1994. Andre and Big Boi were only 18-19 years old at the time, but their candid lyrics about Southern life connected with hip hop fans nationwide.
Rise to Fame with OutKast
OutKast‘s sophomore album ATLiens established them as innovators in hip hop. The duo‘s eclectic blend of funk, soul, and extraterrestrial themes showcased their originality. Songs like "Elevators (Me & You)" tackled socioeconomic issues with intelligence and nuance.
1998‘s Aquemini took OutKast‘s artistry to new heights. Andre 3000 adopted the alter ego "Ice Cold Andre" and began experimenting with different flows. Singles "Rosa Parks" and "SpottieOttieDopaliscious" highlighted his nimble rhyming and melodic vocals.
OutKast hit the commercial peak of their success with the diamond-certified Speakerboxxx/The Love Below in 2003. Andre 3000‘s disc The Love Below functioned as a solo album, spawning the #1 hit "Hey Ya!" and providing an early glimpse of his artistic depth.
Artistic Evolution and Solo Work
Andre 3000 ventured further into solo work, often stealing the show with scene-stealing guest verses. His contributions added gravitas to hits like Devin the Dude‘s "What A Job" UGK‘s "International Players Anthem" and John Legend‘s "Green Light."
Andre stretched his creativity by taking on acting roles, including playing Jimi Hendrix in the biopic All Is By My Side. He also picked up instruments like the guitar, bass, and keyboards to expand his musical palette.
Lyrically, Andre 3000 moved beyond typical rap braggadocio into vulnerable introspection. Songs like "Prototype" and "Solo (Reprise)" grappled with his personal struggles and artistic ambitions. His frank expression of self set a new standard in hip hop.
Legacy and Continuing Impact
Though his solo output has slowed, Andre 3000‘s legend continues to grow. He is revered as a standard-bearer of lyricism and artistic courage in hip hop. His flair for idiosyncratic wordplay, confessional songwriting, and aesthetic risk-taking has paved the way for genre-bending artists.
As a long-time OutKast fan, I‘m amazed by Andre 3000‘s lasting influence. His innovative flows on earlier tracks like "Elevators" still feel fresh, while his heartfelt songwriting on "Ms. Jackson" connects on a deeply human level. Andre embodies hip hop‘s potential for vulnerability, creativity, and crossover appeal.
Nearly 20 years later, Andre 3000 remains an elusive, almost mythical figure in rap. He shuns social media and rarely grants interviews. Yet new generations of artists credibly cite him as an inspiration, proving the longevity of his influence. Over 25 years into his career, Andre‘s singular creative force remains as potent as ever.