| Full Name: | Kiari Kendrell Cephus |
| Stage Name: | Offset |
| Birthday: | December 14, 1991 |
| Age: | 31 Years |
| Place of Birth: | Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States |
| Nationality: | American |
| Occupation: | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Years active: | 2008–present |
| Spouse: | Cardi B (m. 2017) |
| Children: | 4 |
| Labels: | Capitol, Motown, Quality Control |
| Associated acts: | Migos, Cardi B |
| Website: | yrnoffset.com |
| Net Worth: | $26 Million |
Offset is an American rapper best known for being part of the hip hop trio Migos. Alongside his cousins Quavo and Takeoff, Offset has released multiple chart-topping albums and singles over the past decade. The 31-year-old artist has also found major solo success and recognition through co-branded projects.
With his signature melodic trap style, Offset has become one of the most influential rappers pushing hip hop forward today. In this blog, we explore Offset‘s upbringing, musical journey with Migos, solo ventures, personal life, rapping style and more.
Early Life and Career Beginnings in Lawrenceville, GA
Offset, born Kiari Kendrell Cephus, grew up in Lawrenceville, Georgia just outside Atlanta. As a kid, Offset‘s mother worked long shifts to support the family. His father was incarcerated when Offset was just a toddler.
Raised by his grandmother, Offset fell into street life and spent time in juvenile detention as a teenager. But he always had a love for music and started rapping as an outlet. Offset met Quavo, his cousin, in middle school and the two would spend afternoons freestyle rapping together.
Quavo‘s nephew Takeoff joined them a few years later. The trio called themselves Polo Club and eventually the name Migos was born. They released their first mixtape ‘Juug Season’ in 2011, followed by ‘No Label’ in 2012.
The mixtapes showed their raw talent, versatility, and contagious chemistry that would take them to the top. Their unique, rapid-fire triplet flow layered with addictive hooks became their signature style.
Rising Fame and ‘Yung Rich Nation‘ Album
Migos started gaining more recognition with their 2013 single "Versace" which went viral. Drake did a remix further amplifying it‘s popularity. This new fame earned them a deal with Quality Control Music.
Their freshman album ‘Yung Rich Nation’ released in 2015, debuting at number 17 on Billboard 200. It featured their smash hit “Fight Night”. You could see their style and sound maturing with each release.
But it was really their follow up album ‘Culture’ that solidified Migos‘ status as rap superstars and pioneers of the new school.
With ‘Culture‘, Migos Take Over the Rap Game
When ‘Culture’ dropped in January 2017, it was an immediate classic. Debuting at number 1 on Billboard, it went platinum and was one of the biggest albums of the year. It spawned massive hits like "Bad and Boujee", "T-Shirt" and "Slippery".
The production quality was stellar, their flows were refined, and the features from Lil Uzi Vert, Gucci Mane and Travis Scott amplified things further. But it was Offset‘s standout verses and infectious delivery that really impressed me.
His lines on songs like "Slippery" and "Kelly Price" showcase his lyrical talent through clever bars packed with witty pop culture references. And tracks like "Deadz" display Offset‘s ability to paint vivid stories, while seamlessly switching up his flow.
Offset Continues Shining on ‘Culture II‘ and Collaborations
Migos wasted no time releasing a follow up in January 2018 with ‘Culture II’, which also hit number 1 on Billboard. smash hits like “Motorsport”, “Walk It Talk It”, and “Stir Fry” dominated the charts and radios.
Meanwhile Offset kept building momentum through high profile collaborations. Joining 21 Savage and super-producer Metro Boomin to create ‘Without Warning’, one of my favorite projects of 2017. And teaming up with Cardi B, his now wife, on her Billboard #1 single “Bodak Yellow”.
Offset also dropped solo tracks like “Ric Flair Drip” and stole the show with his guest verse on Tyga‘s “Taste”, solidifying his talent.
First Solo Album and Continued Hits
In February 2019, Offset finally released his debut solo album ‘Father of 4’ which gave us bangers like “Red Room” and “Clout”. It shot right to number 1 on Billboard, showing his popularity.
He continues dominating features on songs like “Rule The World” with 2 Chainz and YG’s “Flip The Switch”. His collabs with Cardi like “Clout” and “Lick” show their chemistry.
Major Accomplishments and Ventures
Offset has racked up major accolades like BET‘s best group award (2017) and BMI Songwriter Awards (2019). Migos‘ ‘Culture II’ received a Grammy nod for Best Rap Album, reflecting their massive influence.
Beyond music, Offset co-founded independent label Quality Control Music which houses superstars like Lil Baby, City Girls and Migos themselves. He also started an investment firm focused on real estate and tech.
Showing his fashion savviness, Offset walked in New York Fashion Week 2019 for designer Laquan Smith. And Migos‘ "Stir Fry" was featured prominently in a Samsung Galaxy S9 ad campaign.
Proving his marketing power and reach as a cultural tastemaker. The group even had a cameo in hit show ‘Narcos: Mexico’.
His Refreshing Authenticity
Despite all his success and fame, Offset stays true to his art and roots. He brings a raw authenticity reflecting his come up and life experiences.
Rather than rap about cars and jewelry, Offset keeps it real. His songs touch on deeper topics like family, hardship, violence and systemic inequality. But he balances meaningful messages with his signature slick flows.
This ability to balance complex lyrics with catchy hooks and melodies showcases his talent. Offset isn‘t just making music for the charts, he‘s crafting art.
Life with Cardi B
Offset‘s relationship with fellow rap queen Cardi B has earned them the nickname hip hop‘s power couple. After collaborating on "Lick" and "MotorSport", sparks flew.
They secretly married in 2017, welcomed daughter Kulture in 2018, but nearly divorced by the end of 2018 amid cheating drama. Thankfully in 2019, they reconciled and seem stronger than ever now.
Despite their ups and downs, you can feel the genuine love and chemistry between Offset and Cardi. Their instagram lives and interviews are hilarious – it‘s cool seeing such big stars be goofy and real.
They‘ve collaborated on songs like "Clout" and "Lick". And for Cardi‘s 28th birthday, Offset gifted her with a massive $300,000 diamond watch!
His Influences and Rapping Style
Offset has cited artists like T.I., Nas, Outkast, and The Hot Boyz as early influences growing up in the South. You can hear echoes of their styles – paired with Offset‘s own flair – in his rapping.
His flow is more melodic compared to Takeoff‘s traditional approach or Quavo‘s hooks. Offset raps in triplets, precisely linking words together at top speeds while switching into different flows seamlessly.
His voice adds various vocal inflections, fluctuating pitch and tone like he‘s singing while also maintaining an aggressive raspy edge. When you combine it with Migos‘ production and chemistry, it creates absolute magic.
Why Offset Has the Best Fans
As a day one Offset supporter, I feel Migos fans are especially devoted for many reasons:
- His raw talent and work ethic is undeniable
- The group‘s longevity and consistency pumps out hits
- Offset takes time to engage with fans on social media
- His authenticity and realness makes him relatable
- Offset gives back to communities and lives his values
Despite reaching an elite status, Offset keeps his day ones close. He brought fans on stage with him at the BET Awards and makes sure the fans get the credit they deserve.
The past decade has shown Offset evolve from a scrappy Georgia kid to bonafide rap icon. But he never lets the fame change his essence. And that type of loyalty and connection goes both ways with the Migos fam.
The Legacy Offset is Cementing
Looking at Offset‘s career trajectory so far, it‘s clear he is cementing his status as a generational rap talent. Still just 31, his accomplishments are staggering – from chart-topping hits to cultural influence and business ventures.
Yet Offset remains hungry, motivated, and authentic through it all. While he enjoys his success, Offset keeps focused on raising his family, expanding his portfolio, and progressing as an emcee.
Having followed his artistry for years now, I‘m excited to see what Offset does next. Whether with Migos, solo, or collaborating, he is sure to deliver more fire. Offset and Migos have already left an indelible mark on hip hop‘s landscape. But something tells me this is only the beginning.