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Takeoff, dead at 28 in shooting, was ‘chill’ Migos member

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At just 28, rapper Takeoff had cultivated a rich hip-hop legacy with Migos — along with a reputation as the trio’s most lowkey member — before he was killed in a shooting early Tuesday.

Takeoff was pronounced dead at the scene outside a Houston bowling alley, police there said at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. No arrests had been made, and police were imploring witnesses to come forward with information.

Born Kirsnick Khari Ball, Takeoff grew up in suburban Atlanta — Gwinnett County was less than flatteringly name-checked in a couple Migos tracks — alongside the two other members of the group. Quavo was his uncle and Offset was his cousin, and the trio was raised in large part by Takeoff’s mom.

Takeoff was the youngest of the three, and viewed as the most laidback member. He didn’t appear in headlines at the rate of Offset, who is married to Cardi B, and he wasn’t in high demand as a featured act on top 10 tracks like Quavo, who has guested on hits with Post Malone, DJ Khaled and Drake.

But despite being more reserved, he did a lot of his talking through his rhymes. He had hoped to gain more respect for his lyrical ability through “Only Built for Infinity Links,” an album he released with Quavo just last month.

“It’s time to give me my flowers,” Takeoff said on a recent episode of the podcast “Drink Champs,” acknowledging his reputation as “chill.” “I don’t want them later on when I’m not here.”

Migos broke out nearly a decade ago with the 2013 hit “Versace,” which hit even greater heights in popularity though a Drake remix. The group had other radio-friendly singles such as “Bando” and “Hannah Montana.” The trio later earned Grammy nominations for best rap album with 2018’s “Culture,” while a track off it, “Bad and Boujee” nabbed a nod for best rap performance.

But the hit — which charted No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was shouted out in “Atlanta” creator Donald Glover’s Golden Globes acceptance speech — didn’t actually include Takeoff. Quavo said during an interview that Takeoff — who was sitting next to him — was left off “Bad and Boujee,” which did feature Lil Uzi Vert, because of “timing.” He said the song was rushed out on Soundcloud because the group didn’t have fresh music out at the time.

Nonetheless, Takeoff’s musical presence played a major role in helping the Migos become one of the most popular hip-hop groups of all time. The trio took flight with their rapid-fire triplet flow, a rap style when three notes are performed in one beat that they helped popularize.

Quavo and Takeoff put out a Halloween-themed music video for “Messy” just a day before Takeoff’s death. The video, which begins with Takeoff waking up and recounting a messy dream, had racked up around 1.5 million views by Tuesday afternoon.

The duo were both in Houston on Monday. Quavo, who posted a video of himself driving around the city with friends to his Instagram story, had yet to comment publicly. Offset had not released a statement either.

Houston Police Chief Troy Finner said he received many calls about Takeoff after the shooting.

“Everyone spoke of what a great young man he is, how peaceful he is, what a great artist,” Finner said. He wouldn’t speculate on whether Takeoff was the intended target, and asked “everyone to understand the pain, the suffering of” Takeoff’s mother.

Takeoff’s last post on social media was a photo posted just before the shooting on his Instagram story. It was a photo of himself, soundtracked by Playboi Carti’s “Stop Breathing.”

This story was updated on Dec. 5, 2022, to remove a reference to Takeoff never releasing a solo album. His solo debut, “The Last Rocket,” was released in 2018.

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Photo: Jeff Hahne/Getty Images

Remembering Takeoff: Why The Unassuming Rapper Was Foundational To Migos

Takeoff may not have been as extroverted as Quavo, or as hyper-ambitious as Offset. But there's a very good reason Offset declared "Takeoff got some strong s—. He's just powerful."

There's a meme going around about Takeoff — one third of the dominating hip-hop group Migos — that captures his distinct energy.

Back in 2018, the trio tooled around L.A. with the jocular James Corden , for a "Carpool Karaoke" segment. As the bejeweled relatives rapped along with their most famous hits, Quavo hammed it up while riding shotgun; Offset bolstered him in the backseat. 

During the bit, Takeoff played the subdued wingman — less animated than either his uncle or cousin . And one particularly dry expression he flashed at Corden took off online. (Not for nothing did it attract the caption "When your driver miss your exit and you're tryna figure out if you're getting kidnapped.")

Quiet, discerning, yet ready to leap into action: all these traits defined his role in the Migos and earned him his ascendant nickname.

Sadly, the MC born Kirshnik Khari Ball passed away in the early hours after Halloween night, a victim of gun violence at a private party at a bowling alley in Houston, where he and Quavo were playing dice. A representative confirmed the sad news to AP; he was 28. (Two other people were injured ; Quavo was unharmed.)

The tributes rolled in expeditiously, including from Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason jr.

"It's a sad day for our music community. With Migos, Takeoff created a signature sound that broke boundaries and rapidly influenced the musical landscape," he stated. "We're so lucky to have witnessed his artistry and the significant contributions he made to our industry in his 28 years. We send our condolences to his family, friends and fans during this difficult time."

As Twitch streamer Adin Ross tweeted, "Rest in peace to Takeoff, I just spoke to him too. I'm in shock right now, I can't believe it. I pray to god it's fake. This s— just ain't fair bro wtf." Elliott Wilson, the chief content officer at Tidal, tweeted a photo of himself with Takeoff: "This makes no sense. I'm heartbroken." 

And Houston mayor Sylvester Turner went deeper: "Young men of color are killing themselves. They are pulling their guns and shooting and just like that someone(s) is dead… This cannot be our future when our young are dying young."

this makes no sense. i’m heartbroken. @1YoungTakeoff gone at 28 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/yEr7S53vmM — Elliott Wilson (@ElliottWilson) November 1, 2022

A Rolling Stone cover story from 2018 is instructive as to the personalities of the three Migos. In the feature, the trio — who were raised by Quavo's mother in one three-bedroom house — revel in their newfound opulence, devise outsized business plans, and demonstrate their creative interplay.

Therein, Takeoff is described as something of a detached observer, rolling blunts and saying little. But he turns around when the topics of Tupac and Biggie come up; suddenly, he's extrapolating on and theorizing about their demises at a mile a minute.

"He is outspoken with the people he f— with, he love, but he quiet to everyone else," Offset says in the piece. "He analyze a lot, that's why I think his raps be so strong. Takeoff got some strong s—. He's just powerful."

Takeoff may have perished young, but his legacy with the Migos is mighty. The three blew up in 2013 with "Versace" and kept on growing; their biggest hit came in 2016 with the No. 1 smash "Bad and Boujee." To date, they've been nominated for two GRAMMYs; their most recent release was 2021's Culture III . But at the time of Takeoff's death, the three were at something of a crossroads. 

Just weeks ago, Quavo and Takeoff released a co-created LP, Only Built for Infinity Links . While the group never formally split, the album pointed to a potential future where they would have continued as a duo.

"We stand on loyalty. And sometimes that s— ain't displayed," Quavo said at the time . "Right now we gon' be the duo 'til time tell." Added Takeoff: "We don't know all the answers. God know. We pray a lot so only time will tell. Ain't nothing got to change."

GRAMMY.com caught up with Migos less than a year before Takeoff's passing, for its Up Close & Personal video interview series. It's almost surreal to hear Takeoff talk, however offhandedly, about the legacies of Pop Smoke and Juice WRLD — both who appeared on Culture III . "It's unfortunate that they ain't here," Takeoff said, "but their legacies will live on."

That Takeoff himself had to be ripped from the world so soon after speaks to the ongoing epidemic of gun violence — especially in the hip-hop community. As an eye-opening Vulture piece in 2019 headlined "We're Losing Another Rap Generation Right Before Our Eyes" pointed out, Mac Miller , Nipsey Hussle , Lil Peep , XXXTentacion, and numberless other visionaries are gone as a result of shootings, drug problems, or other causes; it's an eerie reminder of the 10-year period from 1996 to 2006 that saw the loss of Biggie , 2Pac , Eazy-E, and several more rap stars.

It's impossible to predict how Takeoff would have evolved and flourished from here. But the rap game has been unquestionably enriched by his presence, talents, and brotherhood with the other two Migos.

Because of those things and more, Kirshnik Ball was able to take off — and the world watched in amazement.

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Photo: Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016

Upon winning the GRAMMY for Best Rap Album for 'To Pimp a Butterfly,' Kendrick Lamar thanked those that helped him get to the stage, and the artists that blazed the trail for him.

Updated Friday Oct. 13, 2023 to include info about Kendrick Lamar's most recent GRAMMY wins, as of the 2023 GRAMMYs.

A GRAMMY veteran these days, Kendrick Lamar has won 17 GRAMMYs and has received 47 GRAMMY nominations overall. A sizable chunk of his trophies came from the 58th annual GRAMMY Awards in 2016, when he walked away with five — including his first-ever win in the Best Rap Album category.

This installment of GRAMMY Rewind turns back the clock to 2016, revisiting Lamar's acceptance speech upon winning Best Rap Album for To Pimp A Butterfly . Though Lamar was alone on stage, he made it clear that he wouldn't be at the top of his game without the help of a broad support system. 

"First off, all glory to God, that's for sure," he said, kicking off a speech that went on to thank his parents, who he described as his "those who gave me the responsibility of knowing, of accepting the good with the bad."

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He also extended his love and gratitude to his fiancée, Whitney Alford, and shouted out his Top Dawg Entertainment labelmates. Lamar specifically praised Top Dawg's CEO, Anthony Tiffith, for finding and developing raw talent that might not otherwise get the chance to pursue their musical dreams.

"We'd never forget that: Taking these kids out of the projects, out of Compton, and putting them right here on this stage, to be the best that they can be," Lamar — a Compton native himself — continued, leading into an impassioned conclusion spotlighting some of the cornerstone rap albums that came before To Pimp a Butterfly .

"Hip-hop. Ice Cube . This is for hip-hop," he said. "This is for Snoop Dogg , Doggystyle . This is for Illmatic , this is for Nas . We will live forever. Believe that."

To Pimp a Butterfly singles "Alright" and "These Walls" earned Lamar three more GRAMMYs that night, the former winning Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song and the latter taking Best Rap/Sung Collaboration (the song features Bilal , Anna Wise and Thundercat ). He also won Best Music Video for the remix of Taylor Swift 's "Bad Blood." 

Lamar has since won Best Rap Album two more times, taking home the golden gramophone in 2018 for his blockbuster LP DAMN ., and in 2023 for his bold fifth album, Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers .

Watch Lamar's full acceptance speech above, and check back at GRAMMY.com every Friday for more GRAMMY Rewind episodes. 

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Photos (L-R): Jody Dominigue; Jack Bridgland; Michael Tranafp; Paras Griffin/Getty Images; Jim Dyson/Getty Images; courtesy of the artist; Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images;

15 Must-Hear Albums This October: Troye Sivan, Drake, Blink 182, NCT 127 & More

Don't let the falling leaves bring you down — read on for 15 albums dropping in October from Taylor Swift, Gucci Mane and Riley Green.

Fall has already begun, and 2023 enters its final act with the beginning of October. However, that doesn't mean the music has to slow down — this month offers plenty of new releases for everyone from rap fans to country aficionados.

The month starts with Sufjan Stevens and the release of Javelin , his first fully-written album in eight years. On the same day, after several postponements, Drake will finally put forth For All the Dogs . Later in the month, blink-182 will make a long-awaited return with One More Time… , their first album featuring the original members since 2011, and Migos rapper Offset will drop his sophomore record, Set It Off .

There's also new work from Troye Sivan, NCT 127, Metric, Gucci Mane , and Taylor Swift closing off the month with the re-release of 1989 (Taylor's Version) .

Don't let the falling leaves bring you down — below, GRAMMY.com compiled a guide with 15 must-hear albums dropping October 2023.

Sufjan Stevens - Javelin

Release date: Oct. 6

The last time Sufjan Stevens released an album fully written by himself was 2015's Carrie & Lowell . Javelin , his upcoming tenth studio album, will finally break this spell.

Mostly recorded at Stevens' home studio and featuring contributions from several friends (including the National 's Bryce Dessner), the 10 tracks of Javelin bring back sounds of "70s Los Angeles' studio opulence" and vibes of a "detailed yet plain" self-portrait, according to a press release.

The album also features a cover of Neil Young 's "There's a World" and an ambitious, 48-page art book with collages and essays written by Stevens. Javelin is preceded by the soothing single "So You Are Tired" and the spaced-out "Will Anybody Ever Love Me?"

NCT 127 - Fact Check

Within the NCT constellation, NCT 127 is the subgroup anchored in South Korea's buzzing capital, Seoul. Since debuting in 2016, the nine-member ensemble has been infusing the city's vibrancy with innovative EDM and hip hop mixes.

On Oct. 6, NCT 127 will return with their fifth studio album, Fact Check , bringing in another round of their experimental K-pop sound. Consisting of nine songs, including lead single "Fact

Check (Mysterious; 不可思議)," the album expresses 127's confidence.

So far, they released a wealth of teasers that are linked to NCT's overall "dream" concept, video contents , and a highlight medley of the album tracks. After the recent ronclusion of NCT Nation , NCT's first full-group concert in South Korea and Japan, fans are expecting 127 to announce tour dates.

BoyWithUke - Lucid Dreams

Mysterious masked singer and TikTok phenomenon BoyWithUke will continue his dream-themed saga with the release of Lucid Dreams, his fourth studio album.

According to a statement by the Korean American star, Lucid Dreams is meant to express "my desires, my fears, my past, and my dreams." He also adds that the each song on the album is "like a different step on the path. I'm facing past traumas, making the music I want to make, and figuring out who I am."

That development can be seen on pre-releases "Migraine" and "Trauma," where he opens up about mental health and childhood struggles over signature ukulele strings. In his own words, this album is truly "BoyWithUke blossoming, spreading his wings, and finding himself."

Drake - For All the Dogs

After several postponements, Drake's eighth studio album is finally ready to meet the world. For All the Dogs is spearheaded by singles "Search & Rescue" and "Slime You Out" featuring SZA .

The album's tracklist is still a mystery, but it will reportedly feature names like Nicki Minaj , Bad Bunny , and Yeat, with production credits from 40, Bnyx, and Lil Yachty , among others. For All the Dogs is also linked to the Canadian rapper's debut poetry book, Titles Ruin Everything: A Stream of Consciousness — a 168-page collection written in partnership with longtime friend and songwriter Kenza Samir.

The album follows Drake's two 2022 studio albums: Honestly, Nevermind and Her Loss , in collaboration with 21 Savage . Currently, Drake is finishing up his It's All A Blur North American tour — one of the reasons why the album has been postponed before.

Troye Sivan - Something to Give Each Other

Release date: Oct. 13

On an Instagram post , Australian singer Troye Sivan stated: "This album is my something to give you — a kiss on a dancefloor, a date turned into a weekend, a crush, a winter, a summer. Party after party, after party after after party. Heartbreak, freedom. Community, sisterhood, friendship. All that."

Something to Give Each Other is Sivan's first full-length album in five years, following 2018's Bloom . In an interview with Entertainment Weekly , he revealed many of the inspirations behind this work, including partying, movies like Lost in Translation and Before Sunrise , and simple, ice-cold glasses of beer.

The trippy atmosphere of the album can be felt through pre-release singles "Rush" and "Got Me Started" — which features a sample of Bag Raider's omnipresent 2011 hit, "Shooting Stars." 

Offset - Set It Off

Migos rapper Offset said in a statement that his sophomore album, Set It Off , took over two years to finalize. "This season is personal for me. It marks a new chapter in my life," he added.

A follow-up to his 2019 debut LP, Father of 4 , the album will feature appearances by stellar names such as rapper Future , Travis Scott , Chloe Bailey , and Latto , as well as Offset's wife Cardi B , who appears on single "Jealousy."

Later in the statement, Offset said he feels "like Michael Jackson coming from a successful group breaking records to superstardom on my own. This body of work is healing for me and a letter to my fans and supporters." Lead single "Fan" brings back that comparison through many Michael Jackson references in the music video — a clever choice for the rapper's keen self-awareness.

Metric - Formentera II

Exactly one year after the release of Formentera , indie royalty Metric took to social media to announce their ninth studio album, Formentera II . "Sometimes I feel like I'm in a damn maze and maybe you do too, or maybe you have it totally together, or maybe you feel like you're always floating somewhere in between," they wrote. "Wherever you're at right now, I am here to guide you to the rocking️ conclusion of our Formentera I & II odyssey."

The Canadian band also shared lead single "Just the Once," which was described by vocalist Emily Haines as a "regret disco" song in a press statement. "It's a song for when you need to dance yourself clean," she added. "Beneath the sparkling surface, there's a lyrical exploration of a simple word with many meanings. Once is a word that plays a game of opposites."

In support of the release, Metric revealed another single, "Who Would You Be For Me," and will be playing special concerts in NYC, L.A., Toronto, London, Paris, Berlin, Mexico City, Monterrey, and Santiago starting Oct. 10. The concerts will also celebrate the 20th anniversary of their debut LP, Old World Underground, Where Are You?

Riley Green - Ain't My Last Rodeo

Alabama country star Riley Green has a moving story behind his second full-length album. Echoing the 2019 hit "I Wish Grandpas Never Died," Ain't My Last Rodeo came from one of the last conversations the singer shared with his late grandfather, Buford Green, who was an essential figure shaping his love for music and nature.

"I was fortunate enough to grow up within about three miles of my grandparents, so they were a huge part of my growing up and who I am — and this album is a lot of who I am," Green said in a press release. "This is really the first time I was able to really take my time, write and record songs that really felt like a cohesive album."

Ain't My Last Rodeo features 12 tracks (including a cover of Tim McGraw 's "Damn Country Music")   and collaborations with Jelly Roll and Luke Combs . In February 2024, Green will embark on a 34-stop tour throughout the U.S.

The Drums - Jonny

As its title suggests, the Drums' upcoming sixth studio album, Jonny , dives deep into current solo member Jonny Pierce's life. According to a press release, the album mainly explores "the deep-rooted childhood trauma Pierce experienced growing up in a cult-like religious community in upstate New York."

The singer explains further: "When I finished Jonny , I listened to it, and I heard my soul reflected back at me. It is devastating and triumphant, it is lost and found, it is confused and certain, it is wise and foolish. It is male and female, it is hard and gentle.

"To encapsulate one's whole self in an album, to honor each and every part of you, even the parts that feel at odds with each other, is to make something deeply human, and because my religion is humanism, the album becomes a sacred place for me to worship. Each feeling a different pew, each song a hymn to the human heart."

In the past few months, Pierce gave insight into the 16-track, indie-pop collection through singles "I Want It All," "Plastic Envelope," "Protect Him Always," "Obvious," and "Better." Jonny is the band's first full release since 2019's Brutalism .

Gucci Mane -  A Breath of Fresh Air

Release date: Oct. 17

Following 2016's Ice Daddy , Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane's sixteenth studio album will be named A Breath of Fresh Air .

In it, Mane is likely in his most vulnerable, relatable state yet. "I kind of wanted to let people know that I go through pain," he stated in an interview for Apple Music (via Revolt ). "Like I said, I didn't want to have so much just superficial topics. I hit people and let them know, 'Hey, this was going on,' but it ain't a bad thing. It's okay to be happy. You know what I'm saying?"

According to iTunes, the album is set to have two discs and 24 songs, including singles "Bluffin" featuring Lil Baby , "Pissy"   featuring Roddy Ricch and Nardo Wick, "King Snipe" with Kodak Black, and "06 Gucci" with DaBaby and 21 Savage.

blink-182 - One More Time…

Release date: Oct. 20

blink-182's newest single, "One More Time," is a hard-earned reflection about what really matters in life. The punk rock trio, which hadn't been reunited since 2011's Neighborhoods , now realizes how personal struggles impacted their friendship, and how they hope to make it different in the future.

"I wish they told us, it shouldn't take a sickness/ or airplanes falling out of the sky," they sing, referencing Travis Barker 's 2008 plane crash and Mark Hoppus ' 2021 cancer diagnosis. "I miss you, took time, but I admit it/ It still hurts even after all these years."

A proof of maturity since they stepped into music in 1992, the heartfelt single is also the title track off upcoming LP One More Time.. . Featuring 2022's "Edging" and "More Than You Know" as well, the album was recorded mostly during their reunion tour this year, and boasts 17 tracks in total.

Sampha - Lahai

Lahai is Sampha's grandfather's name and his own middle name. Now, it will become part of his musical history — the singer's sophomore studio album and follow up to 2017's acclaimed Process is due Oct. 20.

Over social media , Sampha described the record through a series of words as intriguing as his music: "Fever Dreams. Continuums. Dancing. Generations. Syncopation. Bridges. Grief. Motherlands. Love. Spirit. Fear. Flesh. Flight." Featuring contributions from singers like Yaeji, El Guincho and Yussef Dayes, it will feature 14 tracks that seemingly take a more positive tone than his previous work.

In a statement about lead single "Spirit 2.0," the south London singer said "it's about the importance of connection to both myself and others, and the beauty and harsh realities of just existing. It's about acknowledging those moments when you need help — that requires real strength."

Starting Oct. 12 in his hometown, Sampha will play a string of concerts throughout the U.K., Europe, and North America, wrapping it up on December 4 in Berlin, Germany.

Poolside - Blame It All On Love

"I've spent 15 years being like, 'f—your rules,' and I finally feel like I'm not trying to prove anything or anyone wrong," says Jeffrey Paradise, the man behind "daytime disco" project Poolside, in a statement about his upcoming album, Blame It All On Love .

"It's just pure, unfiltered expression, and that's why I'm really excited about this record," he adds. The album bears 11 tracks described as "funky, soulful, laidback, and full of hooks" — as can be seen in singles like "Float Away," "Each Night" featuring Mazy, and "Back To Life" with Panama. According to the same statement, "the production marks a return to his live music roots and finds ease in simple and radiant layers of sound, even as it comes face-to-face with the complex reality of one's dreams come true."

Blame It All On Love is the follow-up to 2020 and 2021's duo Low Season and High Season . Poolside is on tour across the U.S. until Oct. 14.

Black Pumas - Chronicles of a Diamond

Release date: Oct. 27

Black Pumas' long-awaited second studio album, Chronicles of a Diamond , is "wilder and weirder" than its predecessor, according to an official statement. It is also the Austin-based duo's "fullest expression" of "frenetic creativity and limitless vision."

The album contains 10 tracks that expand on their trademark psychedelic soul sounds, as it can be seen in singles "More Than a Love Song" and "Mrs. Postman." "I wanted to make something we'd be thrilled to play live 200 days a year," says singer/songwriter Eric Burton in the same statement. "I wanted to be able to laugh, cry, bob my head, do the thing: it was all very much a selfish endeavor."

After the release, the Black Pumas will embark on a U.S. tour starting Dec. 4 in Austin, Texas, and follow into an European tour starting March 15 in Paris.

Taylor Swift - 1989 (Taylor's Version)

Just three months after the release of Speak Now (Taylor's Version) , Swifties will be treated to the singer's fourth re-recorded album this month: 2014's 1989 . "To be perfectly honest, this is my most FAVORITE re-record I've ever done because the five From The Vault tracks are so insane," she revealed over social media.

As usual with Swift, the announcement of the album was marked by a slew of hints, starting with the news' date — Aug. 9, or 8/9 — during the final U.S. stop of her Eras Tour at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium. On that day, she also debuted new, blue outfits that alluded to 1989 's assigned color. Afterwards, the discovery continued through a partnership with Google Search for fans to solve word puzzles in order to discover the titles of the five "From the Vault" tracks.

The album, which Swift said "changed my life in countless ways" will be available in digital, cassette, CD, and vinyl. She will also release deluxe versions in four different colors: crystal skies blue, rose garden pink, aquamarine green, and sunrise boulevard yellow.

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Photo: Andrew Chin/Getty Images

New Music Friday: Listen To New Songs From SZA With Drake & Justin Bieber, Offset, Tate McRae & More

From highly anticipated collabs to long-awaited album teasers, take a listen to six new tracks that arrived on Sept. 15.

It’s yet another big day for music enthusiasts, as listeners were gifted with unexpected collaborations and fresh new melodies from artists of every genre on Sept. 15. 

With an Instagram caption-worthy single from Drake and SZA , a playful, self-confident anthem from Tate McRae, and a chill, euphoric vibe from Noah Kahan & Lizzy McAlphine, there’s plenty of different sounds to dive into. 

As you’re putting together your autumn 2023 playlist, add these six new tracks to the mix.

Drake feat. SZA - "Slime You Out"

Just hours after GRAMMY winners Drake and SZA announced they’d be teaming up for a new track, the pair unleashed "Slime You Out" promptly at noon ET on Sept. 15. 

As the song’s title insinuates, the duo seem to express their thoughts on someone "sliming" them out — which, in this case, refers to someone playing with their feelings. "Tryna build trust, showin’ me your DMS, how they tryna bag you / Ironic how the news I got about you ended up bein’ bad news."

Drake’s clever wordplay paired with SZA’s mellow, hypnotic voice make the single a memorable one. But perhaps it’s even more memorable because it’s been a team-up long in the making: according to Drake’s eyebrow-raising line in his 21 Savage collab "Mr. Right Now," the two used to date "back in '08."

SZA feat. Justin Bieber - "Snooze (Acoustic Remix)"

As SZA fans awaited her song with Drake, she gave them another high-profile collab in the form of a "Snooze" remix with Justin Bieber . An alluring, stripped-down version of the original SOS track, the "Snooze" remix sees SZA and Bieber passionately harmonize; added guitar chords add a dreamy touch to the song.

The remix also marks a full-circle moment for the pair, as Bieber starred in the original "Snooze" music video, which was released on Aug. 25.  

Offset - "Fan"

Kicking off what seems to be his Michael Jackson era, Offset has released this newest single, "Fan." This song features an infectious, hype beat with lyrics presenting a nonchalant ‘IDGAF’ attitude: "You supposed to hold me down, but it didn't happen (You supposed to hold me down)/ Now I'm over it." 

"Fan" is a taste of Offset’s forthcoming second album, Set It Off , which he will release on October 13. The LP follows his debut solo album, 2019’s Father of 4 , which landed him a Best Rap Performance GRAMMY nomination for the single "Clout" featuring his wife, Cardi B . 

In the "Fan" music video, Michael Jackson is heavily referenced, with moments including Offset transforming into werewolf and zombie, and dance moves like the reverse moonwalk. 

Tate McRae - "Greedy"

self-confidence single "greedy." This song is a testament to McRae’s inner thoughts, as the lyrics let listeners know she’s not tolerating insecurities — and definitely not enabling any "greedy" men. 

"I would want myself/ Baby, please believe me/ I'll put you through hell/ Just to know me, yeah, yeah," she sings on the chorus.

"Greedy" is McRae’s first release in 2023, and first solo single since her 2022 debut album, i used to think I could fly. She also teamed up with DJ/producer Tiësto for the late 2022 hit "10:35."  

Noah Kahan feat. Lizzy McAlpine - "Call Your Mom"

Folk-pop favorite Noah Kahan teamed up with rising pop singer Lizzy McAlpine to create a new version of "Call Your Mom," an emotional track from his hit 2022 album Stick Season .

Kahan recently brought McAlpine out as a surprise guest during his sold-out show at L.A.'s Greek Theatre on Aug.11, where the two singer/songwriters performed the song for the first time together. 

Written about giving unconditional support to a loved one struggling with mental health issues and depression, the moving song reaches new heights with two voices on it. Kahan’s and McAlpine’s voices perfectly blend together and capture the lyrics’ powerful  emotions.  

Maren Morris - The Bridge

Maren Morris dropped not one, but two new songs, "The Tree" and "Get The Hell Out of Here," which both seem to focus on a new chapter in Morris’s life. "The Tree" feels like a farewell, as she proudly sings," I'm done fillin' a cup with a hole in the bottom/ I'm takin' an axe to the tree/ The rot at the roots is the root of the problem/ But you wanna blame it on me."

"Get The Hell Out of Here" has a more mellow country melody that also talks about growth and navigating different areas of her life. Both songs share a different story, yet share the same theme of a transitional period in her life — and tease what’s to come on her next album, which will follow 2022’s Humble Quest . 

As Morris said in a statement, "These two songs are incredibly key to my next step because they express a very righteously angry and liberating phase of my life these last couple of years, but also how my navigation is finally pointing toward the future." 

Listen: *NSYNC Announce "Better Place," First New Song In 20 Years — Hear A Snippet

Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

5 Takeaways From Quavo's New Album 'Rocket Power'

Five years after his first solo release, Quavo's 'Rocket Power' explores loss, faith, and memories of the artist's late nephew Takeoff — a poignant tribute that marks a new creative plane for the Georgia-born artist.

Tragedy struck the hip-hop world in November 2022 when Migos star Takeoff was killed during an early morning shootout in Houston. Among the hardest hit by the loss was one-third of the famed trio and his uncle Quavo , who witnessed the shooting and sat by Takeoff's side as he passed outside a nearby bowling alley.

Since Takeoff's death, Quavo has largely stepped away from public view. He first resurfaced with an emotional tribute to his late nephew, "Without You," in January, sporadically releasing four more singles in subsequent months. But on Aug. 18, Quavo delivered his biggest tribute yet: the aptly titled album, Rocket Power , which explores the emotional scars that have formed nearly a year after Takeoff's passing. 

Arriving nearly five years after his debut solo album, 2018's Quavo Huncho , Rocket Power is a welcomed sign of Quavo's artistic maturation. The 32-year-old rapper melds his effortless melodicism and hit-making powers to create a cohesive body of work filled with soul-stirring jams and ear-catching trap bangers. 

To welcome Huncho's newest solo effort, we compiled five early takeaways from the 18-track project Rocket Power . 

The Album Honors Takeoff's Life From Childhood To The GRAMMY Stage

From the intro "Fueled Up" to the album's closing track, Rocket Power points to the life and legacy of Takeoff, who's featured on songs "Patty Cake" and "Back Where It Begins." On songs like "Hold Me," Quavo details the misery and emotional pain he and others have faced in the months following Takeoff's unexpected death: "I just need you to hold me/ Listen and feel my heart closely." Quavo also points to other instrumental figures in his life, asking them to come to his aid in moments of darkness.

On the title track, "Rocket Power," Quavo acknowledges the gut-wrenching thoughts and vulnerability he's experienced in this time of grief, and the toll it's placed on both him and his family. "Thinking about my nephew while I'm rolling some trees/ Mama said she's crying, and she's crying in her sleep."

While references to Takeoff's passing are sprinkled throughout the project, "Patty Cake" gifts Migos fans a welcomed look back at the two artist's influence and chemistry. And for many, hearing Taekoff's voice on the interlude "Narkedo Speaks" (which is pulled from a Drink Champs interview) reflects the kind of figure he was in rap: "I ain't even have a plan B, I made myself not have a plan B on purpose/Just so I can fulfill my plan A."

Limited Features Magnify Takeoff Tribute

Rocket Power only includes five features, a vast difference from Quavo's debut album, which boasted features on over half of its 19 tracks.

Among the artists featured on the project — which includes Future , Young Thug , Hunxho and BabyDrill — the most significant moments come from the artist the album honors. With Takeoff's presence on "Patty Cake" and "Back Where It Begins," the songs flash to his often understated talents and role as the Migos' lyrical foreman. It also points to how instrumental he was in Quavo's life, as the rapper touches on their past memories growing up in Lawrenceville, Georgia.

With fewer features, Quavo's vision for Rocket Power pierces through more vividly, and the project's more intimate and conceptualized moments reach their apex. While stars like Young Thug and Future elevate tracks like "Focused" and "Back Where It Begins," songs like "11.11" and "Not Done Yet" would lose much of its emotional fuel with another artist's presence.

Rumors Aside, Offset And Quavo's Relationship Appears To Be On The Upswing

It's hard to ignore Offset's absence on Rocket Power . He's not featured nor mentioned throughout much of the album, but "11.11" provided fans with some clarity on the status of their relationship.

Following the 2022 release of Quavo and Takeoff's collaborative album, Only Built For Infinity Links (which was released just weeks before Takeoff's passing), rumors about a falling out between Quavo and Offset emerged. The two first alleviated reports of their feud — including that they fought backstage at the 2023 GRAMMYs —  by reuniting for a performance at the 2023 BET Awards in June.

And nearly two months after their reunion, Quavo further suggests he and Offset are in a better place on "11.11": "5:30 Huncho and Set get up early, and go out and go get that bag together (Set)/ Who the f— gonna put us together, can't nobody put this s— back together/ So stay the f— out of the middle, lil fella/ We always goin' be that/ We fam forever (Migos)."

Quavo Leans Further Into His Faith

Throughout the album, Quavo points to his faith as a source of emotional strength and how it's tethered his family together in the wake of recent tragedy. On "Not Done Yet," the artist raps, "Giving it all I got, don't know what God got for me (God)/ Holding my head up high, I hope y'all really proud of me (High)."

While the "Lost" rapper has never shied away from his faith, Rocket Power is the most Quavo has ever melded it into his music. As much as it's a snapshot of his current mental state, the religious references point to the new creative plane Quavo is currently on.

Quavo Is A Legitimate Solo Star

Following Quavo Huncho , some hip-hop fans questioned Quavo's ability to carry an album as a solo artist. But if there were any doubts, drop them. He's unquestionably a star capable of carrying on his own.

While Quavo is credited for his infectious hooks and street hits, Rocket Power proves he can effectively draw from his life experiences and transfer those emotions to create gut-wrenching records. It also proves he can effectively pair these kinds of records together into a larger conceptual project, and expand his artistry beyond his melodic mastery.

Throughout the album, Quavo firmly commands each of the 18 tracks. He delivers a harmonious (and effective) mix of stadium-level anthems, emotion-fueled sentiments, and hard-hitting trap songs — proving that he'll not only continue the legacy he and Takeoff built together, but continue to evolve creatively on his own.

Hip-Hop Just Rang In 50 Years As A Genre. What Will Its Next 50 Years Look Like?

• 1 Remembering Takeoff: Why The Unassuming Rapper Was Foundational To Migos
• 2 GRAMMY Rewind: Kendrick Lamar Honors Hip-Hop's Greats While Accepting Best Rap Album GRAMMY For 'To Pimp a Butterfly' In 2016
• 3 15 Must-Hear Albums This October: Troye Sivan, Drake, Blink 182, NCT 127 & More
• 4 New Music Friday: Listen To New Songs From SZA With Drake & Justin Bieber, Offset, Tate McRae & More
• 5 5 Takeaways From Quavo's New Album 'Rocket Power'

• Entertainment

How Migos’ Takeoff Defined a Rap Era and Spearheaded a Generation

T akeoff, a member of the Atlanta rap trio Migos , was shot to death in Houston on Monday, a representative confirmed to the Associated Press. He was 28. The rapper, whose real name was Kirshnik Khari Ball, was known for his gruff and effortlessly agile delivery and long-reaching influence on trap music, a regional subgenre that would come to define modern American pop music.

Migos, made up of Takeoff, his uncle Quavo, and cousin Offset, made their swift and towering ascent to the top of the music industry in the early 2010s. While at the time, Quavo and Offset grabbed more attention—for which star they dated or which party they graced—Takeoff quickly emerged as the group’s the best rapper.

Young and Hungry

The three Migos grew up together in Gwinnett County, in suburban Atlanta. In his 2018 song “I Remember,” Takeoff recalled bleak days in which he sold drugs as he watched his friends and family get locked up: “My n****s done had cases after cases / Go to places, come back, break the suitcase down in mama’s basement.”

In their spare time, the three family members started making music together, and pioneered a new version of trap music—a Southern, slow, and menacing form of hip-hop—reliant on nihilistically bare beats, rapid-fire triplet flows, and rousing, absurdist ad-libs. As the trio made a name for themselves locally—by turning up strip clubs and basement parties—they also gained a rabid following online, as regional rap extended its tendrils across blogs, forums, and early social media.

In 2013, Drake remixed the group’s hit “Versace,” sending them to another level of notoriety. While the group battled legal issues and jail time, it was their work ethic that kept them from being a one-hit wonder: “It’s a day job and a night job,” Takeoff told the Fader in 2013 , in between studio sessions and live appearances.

Over the next few years, Migos’ rise would occur largely without the help of traditional gatekeepers. The New York Times reported in early 2017 that their number one hit, “Bad and Boujee” was ignored for months by radio and late-night music bookers. Migos didn’t sound like what was on the radio at the time: it was comparatively unpolished, rowdy and sounded vaguely threatening to unfamiliar ears.

Those snubs had little to no impact on the Migos, who decided to debut “Bad and Boujee” on Soundcloud, which represented the forefront of rap culture at the time. In memes and blogs, many quickly proclaimed that the Migos were “better than the Beatles.” The group popularized the dance move the dab—which rapidly turned from trendy to cringey as white teens got a hold of it on Vine—and Donald Glover anointed “Bad and Boujee” “the best song … ever” onstage at the Golden Globes.

Through this rise, Takeoff remained a tertiary public presence next to Quavo, the slick-talking, jewelry-laden quasi-frontman, and Offset, who made up one of rap’s foremost power couples alongside Cardi B. Takeoff was often relegated the last verse of songs, patiently waiting for his bandmates to finish. And he didn’t even have a verse on “Bad and Boujee”—a fact that was memed endlessly after a question about his omission sparked a confrontation between Migos and Joe Budden at the 2017 BET Awards.

But in Migos’ music overall, Takeoff played a central role in his poise and ferocity, and only improved his craft over the years. It wasn’t the actual words he delivered that made him stand out, but the way he delivered them: emphatically accenting unexpected syllables; stuffing dozens of words into bars with both fleet and force. “F-ckin’ with the wrong one, trippin’ / Thirty round extension for the tension / Hundred round drum, listen / F-ck around and end up missin’,” he rapped on “Get Right Witcha.”

He hit another high point on Cardi B’s “Drip,” effortlessly mixing menace and humor and deploying rhythmic jukes to constantly surprise the listener: “Abort the mission, n****, they be tellin’ off and squealin’ / Splash, took a bitch to Piccadilly / Water in my ear, gave a n**** wet willy.”

Before long, the triplet-based “Migos Flow” that Takeoff had in particular perfected would become ubiquitous on the rap and pop charts, thanks to more sanitized artists like Post Malone and Ariana Grande . Once mostly meme fodder, trap would soon become a respected, endlessly-dissected culture and art form. “Trap is the only music that sounds like what living in contemporary America feels like,” Jesse McCarthy wrote in N+1 Magazine in 2018. “It is the soundtrack of the dissocialized subject that neoliberalism made.”

“The fact that [rap] now the new normal is a triumph for voices who haven’t always had platforms to call their own–and finally do,” Raisa Bruner wrote in TIME in 2018. “Migos are smart to call their albums ‘culture.’ That’s exactly what it sounds like.”

Read More: How Rap Became the Sound of the Mainstream

Takeoff received praise for his 2018 solo record The Last Rocket , as well as his duo album Only Built for Infinity Links with Quavo, which was released this October. On that album, the uncle and nephew pairing solidified their familial mind-meld: “You can hear their bond in their back-and-forths, the way their mutating styles make slight tweaks to an already solid formula,” Dylan Green wrote in Pitchfork .

Their latest music video, “Messy,” was released on Monday.

Tragically, it was reported that Quavo was present when his nephew was shot to death in Houston. Takeoff’s death also continues a rash of gun violence that has plagued the rap community: Trouble, Young Dolph, and PNB Rock have all been shot to death this year.

Many in the rap community paid their respects on Twitter:

REST IN PARADISE TAKEOFF!!!! FUCK MAN!! THIS SHIT JUST HIT HARD AND IM TRYNA GRASP WORDS TO SAY BUT I CAN’T!!!!! pic.twitter.com/rb5GrByV8V — First Class 🏁 (@1DJFirstClass) November 1, 2022

takeoff’s contribution is a lot of why culture is so great/iconic for me. the way he flowed so effortlessly on every verse, especially on slippery, will always be crazy to me. what a fcking talent man, gone way too soon 😞 — SK⚡️ (@raptalksk) November 1, 2022

extremely important music thank you for what you gave us and rest in power takeoff 💜 pic.twitter.com/Me5CnMcldT — playing w/ fire out now (@redveil) November 1, 2022

Takeoff, man... Offset lost a brother he'll never get to fix things with. For nothing. Quavo lost his nephew. For nothing. Rap lost a good one. For nothing. All this bloodshed. For nothing. It'll never make sense. Never ever. Rest in Peace. Prayers to the family of the fallen. pic.twitter.com/6l4PUO2wp1 — 𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕲𝖆𝖜𝖉 (@visecs) November 1, 2022

rip takeoff 🙏 — Cole Bennett (@_ColeBennett_) November 1, 2022

“I am the laid-back one. I don’t say too much,” Takeoff admitted in a 2017 Fader cover story. But in music, his presence was towering.

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Remembering Takeoff, 'a true student of Hip Hop': Closer look at Migos rapper's name, projects

The music world woke up to the news Tuesday that Takeoff, the youngest member of Migos, died at 28 in a fatal shooting.

Born Kirsnik Khari Ball, Takeoff was the more reserved member of the Grammy-nominated and Billboard-charting group. Though not gathering as many headlines as Migos' members Quavo and Offset, Takeoff's rap delivery was "crazy" upon first listen, Quality Control Music label CEO Pierre Thomas, an early signer of the group told Tidal's Rap Radar in 2017 .

Houston Police chief Troy Finner confirmed the rapper's death in a press briefing  saying Takeoff was shot after a private party at a bowling alley. Two others were struck and taken to the hospital and are not facing life-threatening injuries. 

Since the release of Migos' first mixtape "Juug Season" in 2011 , two years before their first commercial hit "Versace," the group has become a pillar of hip hop. Here's what to know about Takeoff and his legacy with Migos.  

How did Migos begin? Are they related? 

The Migos members grew up together. Quavo is Takeoff's uncle, with just a few years age difference the two have called each other Unc and Phew on singles like "Hotel Lobby." Offset and Quavo have been close friends since middle school and is often considered a cousin.

Quavo and Takeoff dipped their toes in rap before Offset joined in on the music. In an interview with XXL magazine, Quavo recalled his humble beginning saying "everybody laughed" at him when he'd make music in middle school but Offset often shielded him from ridicule. 

When the rappers were in high school they called themselves the Polo Club, and later adopted the Migos moniker. Popularity struck when Drake hopped on a remix of their 2013 song "Versace" from their "Y.R.N" mixtape. 

Several projects, accented by their famous adlibs and signature triplet-style cadence, followed, including mixtapes "No Label," "No Label II," "YRN 2." Their debut studio album "Culture" was released in 2017. "Culture II" in 2018 and "Culture III" in 2021 were the group's subsequent albums.

"We're not letting up, because it's our time. We're going to take advantage of it," Offset told USA TODAY in 2017, a month after the first album's release. "You don't see a lot of people having longevity, because they're coming in fast. My grandma used to tell me, 'You don't want to hit fast, because you might leave as fast as you came in.'"

How did Takeoff get his name? 

Takeoff's talent led to his name. 

"The reason why his name is Takeoff is because he'll do everything in one take," Quavo said during a 2021 interview with Complex's "Hot Ones"  noting that in their early recording sessions everything had to be done in one pass. "He'll do his whole verse and not mess up." 

In May after Quavo and Takeoff released the "Hotel Lobby" single from their joint album "Only Built for Infinity Links," Thomas tweeted that Takeoff's talent is "underrated." 

"If he cared more about this rap game he would definitely be stepping on y’all," Thomas tweeted. "Been like that since he first met him. Nothing has changed with him." 

During a "Drink Champs" interview on Oct. 22 , N.O.R.E complimented Takeoff's performance on the "Infinity Links" album.

"I'm chill, I'm laid back. But it's time to pop it." Takeoff said in response to N.O.R.E's praise. "It's time to give me my flowers. I don't want them when I'm not here." 

N.O.R.E reposted the segment on Twitter after Takeoff's death and called him "a true student of Hip Hop." 

What are Takeoff's most recent projects? 

One day before his death, Takeoff and Quavo released a Halloween-themed video for their song "Messy," the twelfth track on their duo album.

"Only Built for Infinity Links," a name Takeoff came up with inspired by Wu-Tang member Raekwon's 1995 solo album "Only Built for Cuban Linx,"  was released Oct. 7 amid rumors that the Migos trio had broken up since Offset was not included on the project. The group hasn't made any official announcement of their disbandment.

In 2018 Takeoff released his debut solo album "The Last Rocket," a month after Quavo released a solo album. In 2019 Offset released his solo album "Father of 4." 

Quavo acknowledged the group's potential for separate solo ventures to USA TODAY in 2017. 

"I focus on the Migos part, and then whenever (other artists) need me, I just go out and do my thing," Quavo said. "We all know what we doing, everybody (filling each other in) on what we gotta do. There’s no hard feelings. Everybody just go out and bring the trophy home."

Contributing: Patrick Ryan, USA TODAY; The Associated Press

Remembering Takeoff, The Best Rapper in Migos

By Andre Gee

Every rap group is subject to debates about the best member. But it’s not often that an artist takes a stance like Quavo, who repeatedly stated that he felt fellow Migos member Takeoff was the best in the trio. “He always been workin’ on his craft…he just masterminded his craft,” the rapper told Power 106 in 2018. 

Takeoff, born Kirsnik Ball, was fatally shot in Houston on Tuesday morning , ending the chapter of an Atlanta rap group that helped define 2010s rap music. While Takeoff, who was 28, didn’t have the high-profile relationship that Offset has with Cardi B and wasn’t the outgoing public figure Quavo is, the consistency of his body of work demonstrated that he was the stabilizing presence of the multi-platinum Migos.

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New York Times reporter Joe Coscarelli’s new book, Rap Capital, chronicles the Atlanta rap scene from 2013-2020. Of course, the foundation of trap rap happened in the late ‘90s, when Migos members were just kids in Gwinnett county. There were trap kings before Migos; the Gwinnett trio was fortunate and talented enough to take the baton from their predecessors. In some ways, Takeoff represented the best qualities of the trap gods before him. He had the technical precision of T.I., the ad-lib prowess of Jeezy, and mirrored the work ethic of the prolific Gucci Mane. That combo helped Migos’ brand of trap command the world’s attention. 

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Today, a user on Twitter who says they worked on the live broadcast of Migos’ 2021 Jimmy Fallon performance pointed out that “the highlight for all of us was Takeoff’s performance. His ability to command the room without making a mistake, knowing his lyrics + everyone else’s & still being the most humble.” That commanding presence carried on throughout his catalog. At his best, he was deft, dextrous, and downright torrential on Migos bangers. And without Takeoff, Migos don’t sell over 3 million albums, get nominated for two Grammys, or maintain the seat in popular culture that they do. 

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The Famous Info

Takeoff (rapper) bio, wiki, age, height, family, wife, death, and net worth.

Takeoff (real name – Kirshnik Khari Ball) is an American rapper best known for being a member of the hip-hop trio “Migos.”

Takeoff Biography

Takeoff (real name – Kirshnik Khari Ball) was an American rapper best known for being a member of the hip-hop trio “Migos.” The other members of the trio are his 1st cousin once removed ‘Offset’ and his uncle ‘Quavo’.

Takeoff Career

Takeoff started rapping in the year 2008 along with Offset and Quavo. Initially, they were performing under the stage name “Polo Club” but ultimately changed their name to “Migos.” On August 25, 2011, they first released a mixtape titled Juug Season and then the mixtape No Label, on the ist of June 2012. In the year 2013, they became prominent after releasing their single “Versace” which reached its highest point on the Billboard Hot 100 at no. 99. In the 7th grade, he began creating beats and rhythms, but he didn’t begin producing music professionally until 2011.

They released their first album, Yung Rich Nation, in July 2015 and it featured guest appearances from Young Thug and Chris Brown, as well as production from Murda Beatz and Zaytoven. On the Billboard 200, the album peaked at no. 17. In the year 2016, the trio “Migos” released their no. 1 single “Bad and Boujee” featuring Lil Uzi Vert. The song peaked on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 2017 and RIAA – the Recording Industry Association of America certified the song 4 times platinum. However, Takeoff is not credited or featured in that song because he was busy during the recording time.

“Culture” was their 2nd studio album and was released on January 27, 2017, and it peaked at no.1 on the United States Billboard 200. In July 2017, the album also achieved platinum certification in the nation. Migos released “Culture II” on January 26, 2018, and it also peaked at no.1 on Billboard 200. When it comes to his education, he was a graduate of Berkmar High School.

Takeoff Age

Takeoff was 28 years old as of 2022. He was born on June 18, 1994, in Houston, Texas, United States.

Takeoff Height

He stood at an approximate height of 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 m).

Takeoff Family

He was raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia, United States with his mother, along with family members Offset and Quavo. There is no information about his father and siblings.

Takeoff Wife

He was neither married nor engaged to anyone. However, there are rumors that he was linked romantically to Lakeya Darshay, Rubi Rose, and Dream Doll throughout his time in the spotlight.

Takeoff Net Worth

He had an annual net worth of $26 Million.

Takeoff Death

Takeoff was shot dead on November 1, 2022, at 2:40 am CST while he was playing dice with his uncle Quavo at 810 Billiards & Bowling, a bowling alley in Houston, Texas. His death was pronounced on the scene. Quavo was however not injured. Takeoff posted a selfie pic from the bowling alley, just a few hours before the shooting. His uncle Quavo had posted a video the previous night, driving around Houston with an American music executive and promoter, James Prince, who was celebrating his birthday.

According to statements made by Houston Police Department, there were two other victims who were taken to hospitals in private vehicles. Also, there were other people who suffered non-life-threatening injuries during the shooting. The police department also stated that they would not release any identity of the deceased victim until his family gets notified and there should also be ID verification from Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

Takeoff Atlanta Flight Incident

After Takeoff was asked to be taken off a Delta Air Lines flight before taking off from Atlanta to Des Moines, Iowa, on July 7, 2017. This was just after he declined to move his bag from the floor to an overhead storage bin.

Sexual Assault Allegations

It was announced on April 2, 2021, that the office of the Los Angeles District Attorney would not file any criminal charges against Takeoff because the evidence was not sufficient. The proceedings of the civil suit court are still in progress.

Shortly after the announcement of Takeoff by the Houston Police, other celebrities such as Teyana Taylor, Wiz Khalifa, Almighty Jay, Keri Hilson, Lil Pump, Rich the Kid, and many others showed their condolences through their social media accounts. In a concert in Finland, 50 Cent (Rapper) announced a moment of silence in honor of Takeoff.

• Relationship

Takeoff was an American rapper . He was best known for being the youngest member of the hip-hop group Migos alongside his uncle Quavo and first cousin once removed Offset. He was well-known for his contributions to numerous top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "MotorSport" (featuring Nicki Minaj and Cardi B), "Stir Fry," "Walk It Talk It" (featuring Drake), and "Bad and Boujee" (featuring Lil Uzi Vert), the latter of which reached the pinnacle of the chart. His talent earned him two Grammy Award nominations. Tragically, on November 1, 2022, Takeoff died when he was fatally shot in Houston, Texas. Takeoff rapper died at 28. 

Takeoff (Rapper) Biography

Takeoff, a renowned American rapper and the youngest member of Migos was celebrated for his chart-topping contributions on the Billboard Hot 100, including hits like "MotorSport," "Stir Fry," and "Walk It Talk It". On November 1, 2022, he lost his life in a fatal shooting in Texas, USA. 

Born on June 18, 1994, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA, Takeoff's real name was Kirshnik Khari Ball . He held American nationality and identified as African-American. He grew up under the care of his single mother, a hairdresser. Takeoff was part of the closely-knit Migos rap trio, with Quavo as his uncle and Offset as Quavo's cousin. He pursued his education at Berkmar High School and began honing his musical talents by creating beats and rhythms during his seventh-grade years, officially venturing into music production in 2011.

Takeoff Music Career

Takeoff, along with his family members Quavo and Offset, embarked on their rap journey in 2008. Originally performing under the name Polo Club, they later rebranded themselves as Migos. Their musical journey began with the release of their mixtape "Juug Season" on August 25, 2011, followed by "No Label" on June 1, 2012. Migos gained prominence after the release of their single "Versace" in 2013, which Drake notably remixed. Their debut studio album, "Yung Rich Nation," was released in July 2015. 

The group's breakthrough came with the chart-topping single "Bad and Boujee" in 2016, despite Takeoff not being credited on the song, and their album "Culture" debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 in 2017. In 2018, Takeoff embarked on a solo project titled "The Last Rocket," and Migos released their fourth album, "Culture III," in 2021. However, by October 2022, rumors of Migos disbanding had surfaced amid reports of personal disputes, and shortly before his untimely death , Takeoff and Quavo collaborated on a joint album called "Only Built for Infinity Links," released in October 2022.

Takeoff Relationship: Dating and Girlfriend

Takeoff, at the time of his passing, remained unmarried but had a history of dating several notable celebrities. In May 2017, he was romantically linked to pop singer Katy Perry , with reports suggesting they attended a Saturday Night Live after-party together. Their relationship reportedly blossomed while Takeoff's rap group collaborated on Perry's single, "Bon Appétit," leading to their brief romance. Additionally, there were rumors of a fling with stripper London Dallaz in June 2017 and a short-term rumored affair with reality television personality DreamDoll in 2018. However, at the time of his tragic death, Takeoff was single and he had no girlfriend. 

Takeoff Death

On November 1, 2022, Takeoff was tragically killed in a shooting in Houston, Texas, following a private party at 810 Billiards & Bowling. Takeoff suffered fatal injuries, having been shot multiple times in the head and torso, while two other individuals sustained non-life-threatening injuries during the incident. The motive behind the attack was under investigation, and Patrick Xavier Clark was subsequently accused and charged with murder in connection with the shooting. Notably, Takeoff's record label reported that he was a victim of a "stray bullet," and Houston police chief Troy Finner believed he was not the intended target. Numerous tributes and reactions poured in from the entertainment industry, sports, and beyond, following Takeoff's untimely passing.

Investigations and legal proceedings led to the detainment of individuals connected to the shooting, with Patrick Xavier Clark being indicted for the murder of Takeoff. The commercial impact of Takeoff's death was also evident, with his music and collaborations receiving heightened attention, and his single "Hotel Lobby (Unc & Phew)" earning platinum certification. Takeoff's friends and family held memorial services and a "Celebration of Life" event at the State Farm Arena, which attracted a significant crowd, featuring performances by notable artists, and culminated in Takeoff's burial in Gwinnett Memorial Park in Lawrenceville, Georgia.

On 1st November 2023, Offset and Quavo are honoring their late Migos group member, Takeoff, one year after his fatal shooting at a Houston bowling alley. Quavo shared a black-and-white photo of Takeoff on Instagram with a caption that reads, "Can’t forget it won’t Forget It NEVER Forget it I Remember!" Offset also paid tribute, expressing, "The times we spent are priceless, and what we built in this game influenced the world. I love you, Takeoff, you're still with us. Migo 4Life!"

Takeoff Net Worth 2023

Takeoff, the renowned rapper and a member of the acclaimed group "Migos," amassed substantial wealth during his career, with an estimated net worth of $26 million at the time of his unfortunate passing in 2022. Known for his successful albums alongside Migos, he was earning an impressive salary of approximately $200,000 before his demise.

The group "Migos" had also ventured into lucrative endorsement deals with brands like Beats by Dre, Avianne Jewelers, Backwoods, Bedloo, and Champs Sports. Additionally, their YouTube channel, Migos ATL, generated substantial income ranging from $47,000 to $700,000. His lavish lifestyle was characterized by his collection of gold jewelry and a fleet of luxurious cars. 

Takeoff Height: How tall was he?

Takeoff was a handsome rapper. He stood tall at a height of 5 feet 9.5 inches with a body weight of 76 kilograms. He had a slim body type. His distinctive look included black hair styled in dreadlocks and dark brown eyes, which added depth to his appeal. Notably, he had a penchant for accessorizing with gold jewelry, reflecting his unique sense of style and flair. 

Facts About Rapper Takeoff

Takeoff was known as a member of the hip-hop trio migos.

Renowned for his role as part of the hip-hop trio Migos, Takeoff, along with his uncle Quavo and first cousin once removed Offset, formed a powerhouse group in the music industry. Notably, Takeoff became the third and final member of Migos to achieve solo recognition on the Billboard Hot 100, making his mark as a featured artist on Huncho Jack's "Eye 2 Eye," which debuted at No. 65 on the chart. 

He started making beats in 7th grade

Takeoff, a rising star in the rap scene, stands out for his exceptional musical talent and maturity. His early start in music production, which began in the seventh grade, set the stage for his remarkable career. Despite his youth, he displayed a deep understanding of rhythm and beats. It wasn't until 2011, however, that he embarked on his professional music journey with Migos. Their inaugural project, the mixtape "Juug Season," released in August 2011, marked the beginning of their journey after years of performing at local clubs and events.

He was nominated for two Grammy Awards

He earned two Grammy Award nominations from the Recording Academy, one for "Bad and Boujee" in the Best Rap Performance category and another for "Culture" in the Best Rap Album category. The Grammy Awards, part of the prestigious quartet of annual American entertainment awards alongside the Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, and Tony Awards, recognize exceptional achievements in the music industry in the United States.

He was shot fatally in Houston

Rapper Takeoff, a member of the group Migos, was fatally shot in Houston following a private party. The incident occurred at 810 Billiards and Bowling in downtown Los Angeles early Tuesday morning. Houston Police Chief Troy Finner reported that officers responded to the shooting at 2:34 a.m. Takeoff was pronounced dead at the scene on November 1, 2022, as confirmed by Sgt. Michael Arrington, a homicide investigator. Two additional individuals drove themselves to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. 

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Takeoff (Rapper) Age, Death, Wife, Family, Biography & More

Some Lesser Known Facts About Takeoff

• Takeoff was an American rapper who was a member of the American rap group Migos. On 1 November 2022, Takeoff was shot and killed in Houston, Texas, United States of America.

A photo of all the members of Migos

• Migos released its first rap album titled Juug Season in 2011, which was a hit rap album in the US. Following the release of Juug Season, the trio began performing locally in Atlanta.
• In June 2012, the group released a rap album titled No Label, which, according to several sources, was liked by many fans.
• In 2013, the group met Kevin Lee and Pierre Thomas, the founders of the label named Quality Control and were signed by the label to produce rap albums.

A poster of Migos’ rap album Versace

A poster of Yung Rich Nation

A poster of Migos’ rap album Culture

• In 2017, Migos released another rap titled MotorSports, which featured Nicki Minaj and Cardi B.
• In 2018, Migos released Culture II, which was the second part of their 2017 album Culture. The album sold more than 38,000 copies within a week of its release and was also ranked number 1 on the US Billboard 200 chart in the same year.
• In November 2018, Takeoff released a solo rap album titled Last Memory following which he released another solo rap album titled The Last Rocket. Later, Migos released another rap album titled Walk It Talk It featuring Drake .
• On June 2021, the group released Culture III, which was a sequel to the rap album Culture II. The album became the last album that the trio produced and released together.

We stand on real deal loyalty, and sometimes that… ain’t displayed. This ain’t got nothing to do with no label, no paperwork, no QC, nothing in any sense. This got something to do with the three brothers.”

No baby you lying ! You makin crazy lies starting sh** and putting female rappers in it WIT NO RECEIPTS, no blog ever spoke on this all of a sudden you come out of jail 5 days ago and you made up for lied in 2 hours wit NO RECEIPTS.”

• In October 2022, without Offset, Migos released their rap album titled Only Built for Infinity Links, which was Takeoff’s last album.

We have no reason to believe that he was involved in anything criminal at the time. Sometimes the hip-hop community gets a bad name. I am calling up on everybody — our hip-hop artists in Houston and around the nation — we have got to police ourselves. There are so many talented individuals, men and women, in that community, who again I love and I respect, and we all need to stand together and make sure no one tears down that industry.”

I ain’t never been into sports. I was always into rap. So was Quavo. We always had each other’s back.”

• After his death, many celebrities like Marshmellow, Snoop Dogg, Lil Pump, Gucci Mane, Wiz Khalifa, Mike Tyson , Drake , and many more tweeted in remembrance of Takeoff and offered their condolences to his friends and family.

Takeoff lighting a cigar

References/Sources: [ + ]

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Chart History

Billboard hot 100™, hotel lobby (unc and phew), last memory, latest videos.

Drake’s Poetry Book & Album, All the Drama That Went Down at the BET Awards & More | Billboard News

Houston police urging witnesses to help identify those involved in takeoff’s death | billboard news, first stream: charlie puth gets personal in new album, stray kids’ maxident is here, quavo & takeoff’s collaboration continues & more | billboard news, quavo & takeoff cryptically tease the future of migos without offset | billboard news, first stream: beyoncé’s ‘renaissance’ is here, blackpink come back with ‘ready to love’, hayley kiyoko releases second album and more | billboard news, breaking down the migos breakup rumors | billboard news, takeoff’s “last memory” | watch now, this week’s 5 must-hear songs, latest news, offset quashes rumors of quavo beef with sweet birthday post: ‘love you 4l [for life]’.

• By Gil Kaufman
• Apr 4, 2024 7:49 am

Offset and Quavo Pay Tribute to TakeOff on 1-Year Anniversary of Killing: ‘Can’t Forget It Won’t Forget It NEVER Forget It’

• Nov 2, 2023 8:29 am

Quavo Steps Up Advocacy Against Gun Violence After Takeoff’s Shooting Death

• By Associated Press
• Sep 21, 2023 7:31 am

Quavo Pays Tribute to Takeoff With Touching New ‘Hold Me’ Music Video: Watch

• By Kyle Denis
• Aug 21, 2023 12:19 pm

Quavo’s Assistant, Wounded in Shooting That Killed Takeoff, Sues Venue

• By Heran Mamo
• Aug 17, 2023 8:05 pm

Quavo Talks Grief, Unfinished Songs With TakeOff and Forthcoming Album ‘Rocket Power’

• By Lars Brandle
• Jul 28, 2023 3:52 am

Offset Says His 2023 BET Awards Tribute to Takeoff With Quavo ‘Cleared My Soul’

• Jul 3, 2023 11:54 am
• By Stefanie Tanaka
• Jun 26, 2023 5:58 pm

Migos’ Offset & Quavo Reunite at 2023 BET Awards for First Performance Since Takeoff’s Death

• By Katie Atkinson
• Jun 25, 2023 9:51 pm

Cardi B Lashes Out at Tasha K Over TakeOff Comments: ‘Don’t Ever Put Takeoff Name In Ya Mouth’

• Jun 22, 2023 11:07 am

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Takeoff - Updated Apr 2024

Table of Biography

• 0.1 Takeoff is a famous American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Takeoff is famous as a member of the hip hop and trap music trio “Migos” along with his uncle Quavo and Offset. Likewise, he is also famous for his crazy beats and can produce groovy music out of thin air.
• 1 Early Life
• 2 Education
• 3 Takeoff – Net Worth 2024
• 4 Career and Professional Life
• 6 Relationship Status
• 8 Body Measurements
• 9 Takeoff – Social Media

Takeoff is a famous American rapper, singer, and songwriter. Takeoff is famous as a member of the hip hop and trap music trio “Migos” along with his uncle Quavo and Offset. Likewise, he is also famous for his crazy beats and can produce groovy music out of thin air.

Takeoff’s real name is Krishna Khari Ball. He was born on June 18, 1994 . Likewise, the American hip-hop star is 29 years old at the moment. He was born in Lawrenceville, Georgia, USA. Similarly, the rapper belongs to American nationality and was born under the star sign Gemini.

Moving on to, his family, he has not revealed the names of his parents. Likewise, when it comes to his siblings, he has not revealed anything either. Thus, the names and identities of the American hip-hop star are still in the dark. However, according to our sources, the rapper was raised by his single mother. Moving on to other members of the family, his uncle is Quavo. Likewise, he got introduced to Offset through Quavo. He had picked up a liking for hip-hop and rapping from his early childhood days.

He has not revealed much regarding his education and academics. However, according to our sources, he has gone to Berkmar High School located in his hometown. Likewise, it is still a mystery if he has gone to attend college for his higher education.

Takeoff – Net Worth 2024

Moreover, the rapper has made a handsome deal of wealth throughout his career. As of now, he has a net worth of $26 million.

Career and Professional Life

Takeoff is a famous American rapper and songwriter. In 2009, Ball was approached by his cousin Kiari Kendrell Cephus and uncle Quavious Keyate Marshall to form a group called the Polo Club. They would then adopt stage names and change their music names. Kiari took on the name Offset, Quavious took Quavo and he became Takeoff.

The trio made various odd stage appearances in Georgia, and they also created mediocre music. In August 2011, they released their first album, which was entitled Juug Season. Likewise, later in the year, they released another mixtape and also changed their group name to Migos.

Caption: The poster of their album(source: Instagram)

The trio finally found fame when the single ‘Versace’ went viral. The song made its way across various music platforms and ended up at number 99 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 2015, the group released their fourth album entitled “Yung Rich Niggas”. The album also collectively performed well and this further helped the group’s popularity to grow.

The album featured guest appearances from various prominent artists such as Chris Brown and Young Chop. It debuted at number three on the Top Rap Album charts. The single went straight to on top of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. It was the first chart-topper for Takeoff in the US. The hip-hop star has also made headlines and has become one of the most popular hip-hop groups in the United States.

He has received a handful of awards as well. In the year 2015, he received aYouTubee Music award. Likewise, he won the BET Award for Best Group for three consecutive years as well.

Relationship Status

He is currently single. Further, there are no details or information regarding the rapper’s past relationships. He has a good relationship with his brother and the members of Migos.

Caption: Takeoff with Quavo and Offset(Source: Instagram)

He has been involved in various scandals over the years. He has been arrested by police on a charge of possessing illegal substances. On August 5, 2020, it was revealed that he was the perpetrator of a civil lawsuit brought by a female victim. He was charged with sexual battery, assault, gender violence, false imprisonment, and many more. 

Body Measurements

A takeoff is a handsome man. As for his height, he stands tall at 5 feet 9 inches and weighs 76 kg. Concerning his hair color, he has black hair and a pair of black eyes.

Caption: Takeoff posing for a picture(source: Instagram)

Takeoff – Social Media

Regarding his social media availability, he is only active on Instagram at the moment. He has over 5.9 million followers on the platform.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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Picture This

George takei 'lost freedom' some 80 years ago – now he's written that story for kids.

Samantha Balaban

George Takei was just 4 years old when when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066:

"I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of War, and the Military Commanders... to prescribe military areas in such places and of such extent as he or the appropriate Military Commander may determine, from which any or all persons may be excluded..."

It was Feb. 19, 1942. Japan had attacked Pearl Harbor two months earlier; For looking like the enemy, Japanese and Japanese American people in the U.S. were now considered "enemy combatants" and the executive order authorized the government to forcibly remove approximately 125,000 people from their homes and relocate them to prison camps around the country.

Book Reviews

George takei recalls time in an american internment camp in 'they called us enemy'.

Star Trek actor George Takei has written about this time in his life before — once in an autobiography, then in a graphic memoir, and now in his new children's book, My Lost Freedom.

It's about the years he and his mom, dad, brother and baby sister spent in a string of prison camps: swampy Camp Rohwer in Arkansas, desolate Tule Lake in northern California. But first, they were taken from their home, driven to the Santa Anita racetrack and forced to live in horse stalls while the camps were being built.

"The horse stalls were pungent," Takei remembers, "overwhelming with the stench of horse manure. The air was full of flies, buzzing. My mother, I remember, kept mumbling 'So humiliating. So humiliating.'"

He says, "Michelle's drawing really captured the degradation our family was reduced to."

Michelle is Michelle Lee, the illustrator — and researcher — for the book. Lee relied heavily on Takei's text and his excellent memory, but it was the research that both agree really brought the art to life.

"I'm telling it from the perspective of a senior citizen," Takei, 87, laughs. "I really had to wring my brains to try to remember some of the details."

So Takei took Lee to the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles, where he is a member of the board. They had lunch in Little Tokyo, got to know each other, met with the educational director, and looked at the exhibits. Then Lee started digging into the archives.

Movie Interviews

From 'star trek' to lgbt spokesman, what it takes 'to be takei'.

"I looked for primary sources that showed what life was like because I feel like that humanizes it a lot more," Lee explains. She found some color photographs taken by Bill Manbo, who had smuggled his camera into the internment camp at Heart Mountain in Wyoming. "While I was painting the book, I tried as much to depict George and his family just going about their lives under these really difficult circumstances."

Takei says he was impressed with how Lee managed to capture his parents: his father, the reluctant leader and his mother, a fashion icon in her hats and furs. "This has been the first time that I've had to depict real people," Lee adds.

To get a feel for 1940s fashion, Lee says she looked at old Sears catalogues. "What are people wearing? All the men are wearing suits. What kind of colors were clothes back then."

But a lot of information has also been lost — Lee wasn't able to see, for example, where Takei and his family lived in Arkansas because the barracks at Camp Rohwer have been torn down — there's a museum there now. "I didn't actually come across too many photos of the interior of the barracks," says Lee. "The ones I did come across were very staged."

She did, however, find the original floor plans for the barracks at Jerome Camp, also in Arkansas. "I actually printed the floorplan out and then built up a little model just to see what the space was actually like," Lee says. "I think it just emphasized how small of a space this is that whole families were crammed into."

One illustration in the book shows the work that Takei's mother put in to make that barrack — no more than tar paper and boards stuck together — a home.

"She gathered rags and tore them up into strips and braided them into rugs so that we would be stepping on something warm," Takei remembers. She found army surplus fabrics and sewed curtains for the windows. She took plant branches that had fallen off the nearby trees and made decorative sculptures. She asked a friendly neighbor to build a table and chairs.

"You drew the home that my mother made out of that raw space, Takei tells Lee. "That was wonderful."

Michelle Lee painted the art for My Lost Freedom using watercolor, gouache and colored pencils. Most of the illustrations have a very warm palette, but ever-present are the barbed wire fences and the guard towers. "There's a lot of fencing and bars," Lee explains. "That was kind of the motif that I was using throughout the book... A lot of vertical and horizontal patterns to kind of emphasize just how overbearing it was."

Takei says one of his favorite drawings in the book is a scene of him and his brother, Henry, playing by a culvert.

Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2022

George takei got reparations. he says they 'strengthen the integrity of america'.

"Camp Rohwer was a strange and magical place," Takei writes. "We'd never seen trees rising out of murky waters or such colorful butterflies. Our block was surrounded by a drainage ditch, home to tiny, wiggly black fishies. I scooped them up into a jar.

One morning they had funny bumps. Then they lost their tails and their legs popped out. They turned into frogs!"

"They're just two children among many children who were imprisoned at these camps," says Lee, "and to them, perhaps, aspects of being there were just fun." The illustration depicts both childlike wonder and — still, always — a sense of foreboding. Butterflies fly around a barbed wire fence. A bright sun shines on large, dark swamp trees. Kids play in the shadow of a guard tower.

"There's so much that you tell in that one picture," says Takei. "That's the art."

"So many of your memories are of how perceptive you are to things that are going on around you," adds Lee, "but also still approaching things from a child's perspective."

Even though the events in My Lost Freedom took place more than 80 years ago, illustrator Michelle Lee and author George Takei say the story is still very relevant today.

"These themes of displacement and uprooting of communities from one place to another — these are things that are constantly happening," says Lee. Because of war and because of political decisions ... those themes aren't uncommon. They're universal."

Takei agrees. "People need to know the lessons and learn that lesson and apply it to hard times today. And we hope that a lot of people get the book and read it to their children or read it to other children and act on it."

He's done his job, he says, now the readers have their job.

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