Chuck D is an American rapper, producer, author, actor, and radio host. He is a founding member of the legendary hip-hop group Public Enemy. Chuck D has been an influential figure in the Hip-Hop community since the late 1980’s.
Carlton Douglas Ridenhour, better known as Chuck D, was born on August 1, 1960 in Queens, New York. He was raised by his mother, a librarian, and his father, a subway conductor. Growing up, Chuck D was exposed to a variety of music styles, from classical and jazz to soul and funk.
In 1985, Chuck D formed Public Enemy with Flavor Flav, Professor Griff and Brother J. He is the main lyricist of the group and served as the group’s leader. Chuck D’s lyrics are socially conscious, focusing on topics such as racism, poverty, and politics. Public Enemy released their debut album, Yo! Bum Rush the Show, in 1987. The album was a critical and commercial success, and the group’s popularity grew rapidly. They released a string of successful albums, including Fear of a Black Planet (1990) and Apocalypse '91: The Enemy Strikes Black (1991).
In addition to his music career, Chuck D has appeared in several films and television shows. He had a cameo in the movie Deep Cover (1992) and appeared in episodes of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1992) and The Chappelle Show (2003). He has also acted in plays, such as No Place to Be Somebody and The Wiz.
Chuck D is also an author and radio host. In 1998, he released his first book, Fight the Power: Rap, Race, and Reality. He has since written two more books, including Inside the Crips (2003). In 2004, he launched the internet radio station, Rapstation.com, which he currently hosts.
Throughout his career, Chuck D has been an outspoken advocate of social justice and the power of hip-hop. He has been a vocal critic of the music industry and has been involved in numerous charities and political causes. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 along with the other members of Public Enemy.
Chuck D is one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of hip-hop. His music and activism have had a lasting impact on the culture and continue to inspire people around the world.
