Introduction
$UICIDEBOY$ is an American hip hop duo hailing from New Orleans, Louisiana. Formed in 2014 by cousins Scott Arceneaux Jr. (known as $crim) and Aristos Petrou (known as Ruby da Cherry), the duo initially garnered attention on SoundCloud with their raw, self-produced beats and stark lyrical content, often revolving around themes of substance abuse and suicidal ideation. Over the years, $UICIDEBOY$ have carved out a unique niche in the music industry, blending elements of punk, hip-hop, and heavy metal to create a distinctive sound.
Early Beginnings and Formation
$crim and Ruby da Cherry both grew up in the 7th Ward of New Orleans, a city known for its rich musical heritage. They were exposed to different music genres from a young age, with $crim delving into DJing and Ruby playing in various punk bands. Their shared passion for music eventually led them to form $UICIDEBOY$ in 2014.
SoundCloud Success
Their initial rise to fame can be largely attributed to SoundCloud, where they uploaded their early tracks. Their abrasive beats and harsh lyrical themes resonated with a growing audience. By 2015, their tracks were accumulating millions of plays, highlighting the platform's role in their early success.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health
A significant portion of $UICIDEBOY$'s music deals with their personal struggles with substance abuse and mental health. $crim has been open about his battle with heroin addiction, while Ruby has discussed his struggles with depression. Their candidness about these issues has helped them connect with fans facing similar challenges.
*Establishing G59 Records**
In an effort to retain creative control and avoid the pitfalls of traditional record labels, $crim and Ruby founded their own label, *G59 Records**, in 2014. This move allowed them to produce and distribute their music independently, ensuring that their artistic vision remained uncompromised.
The Kill Yourself Sagas
Between 2014 and 2017, $UICIDEBOY$ released a series of mixtapes titled "Kill Yourself Sagas." These projects played a crucial role in building their fanbase and solidifying their reputation in the underground rap scene. The series includes 20 installments, each offering a raw and unfiltered look into their lives and struggles.
Breakthrough with "I Want to Die in New Orleans
Their debut studio album, "I Want to Die in New Orleans," was released in 2018 and marked a significant milestone in their career. The album debuted at #9 on the Billboard 200, showcasing their growing mainstream appeal. It featured tracks like "Nicotine Patches" and "Carrollton," which became fan favorites.
Financial Success
Despite their underground roots, $UICIDEBOY$ have achieved impressive financial success. As of 2021, their net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. Their earnings come from a combination of music sales, streaming revenue, merchandise, and touring.
Merchandise Empire
Merchandise has been a significant revenue stream for $UICIDEBOY$. Their unique and often controversial designs have resonated with fans, leading to sold-out drops and significant profits. Their G*59 Records merchandise line includes clothing, accessories, and limited-edition items.
Touring and Live Performances
$UICIDEBOY$ are known for their high-energy live performances. They have headlined several tours, including the "Grey Day Tour," which grossed over $10 million in ticket sales. Their ability to connect with fans in a live setting has been a key factor in their continued success.
Collaborations and Side Projects
In addition to their work as $UICIDEBOY$, both $crim and Ruby have pursued various side projects. $crim has released solo material under the name Budd Dwyer, while Ruby has worked on projects like "Ruby da Cherry's Punk Rock Project." These endeavors showcase their versatility and willingness to experiment with different musical styles.
Social Media Presence
$UICIDEBOY$ have a strong social media presence, with millions of followers on platforms like Instagram and Twitter. They use these platforms to engage with fans, share updates, and promote their music and merchandise.
Impact on the Music Industry
$UICIDEBOY$ have had a profound impact on the music industry, particularly in the underground rap scene. Their willingness to address taboo topics and their DIY approach have inspired a new generation of artists. They have also helped to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and substance abuse in the music industry.
Conclusion
The journey of $UICIDEBOY$ from the streets of New Orleans to international fame is a testament to their talent, resilience, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Their candidness about their personal struggles, coupled with their innovative approach to music, has earned them a loyal fanbase and significant financial success. As they continue to evolve and push boundaries, $UICIDEBOY$ remain a powerful force in the music industry.
