Gradur

Rapper Gradur, born Wanani Gradi Mariadi and alternately known as Grady, entered the music industry as a member of the group 59. As a solo artist, Gradur released the punningly titled mixtapes ShegueyVara and ShegueyVara, Vol. 2 during 2014 and 2015, then followed them with his first proper album, L'Homme au Bob, also released in 2015. Solidified with trunk-rattling beats and guest appearances from fellow French artists Alonzo, Niro, and Kayna Samet, as well as Chief Keef and Migos, the Barclay-issued album topped France’s SNEP chart. Led by singles such as the dramatic “Terrasser” and relatively light “Jamais,” L'Homme au Bob reached gold status in a matter of a couple months. ~ Andy Kellman