SUMMARY:
- EST Gee, born George Albert Stone III on May 11, 1994, in Louisville, Kentucky, initially pursued a football career before turning to rap after facing legal troubles and house arrest.
- At age 29, EST Gee has made significant strides in the rap industry with albums like “I Never Felt Nun,” gaining attention for his raw and authentic depiction of life in Louisville and collaborating with stars such as Yo Gotti and Moneybagg Yo.
- Signing with CMG and Warlike Records has greatly increased his net worth and influence, establishing him as a rising star in contemporary rap.
George Albert Stone III, known by his stage name EST Gee, is a rapper who has captivated the music world with his vivid storytelling and unfiltered lyrics. Who Is EST Gee? Meet The Trending Rapper! Born on May 11, 1994, in Louisville, Kentucky, EST Gee’s journey to fame is as compelling as his music.
Initially pursuing a career in football, he turned to rap after facing personal tragedies, including the shooting death of his brother and surviving a near-fatal shooting himself.
In 2019, EST Gee burst onto the scene with his mixtape “El Toro,” which immediately showcased his unique voice and gritty narratives. His follow-up mixtape in 2020, “Ion Feel Nun,” featured standout tracks like “Morals” and “Get Money,” propelling him into the spotlight and leading to a significant signing with Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) and Interscope Records.
His debut studio album, “Bigger Than Life or Death,” released in 2021, featured collaborations with well-known artists such as Lil Baby, Future, and Young Thug, earning him widespread acclaim and solidifying his status in the rap industry.
Today, at 30 years old, EST Gee is celebrated not just for his music but for his resilience and authenticity. With an estimated net worth of around $4 million, his success is reflected in his album sales, streaming revenue, brand endorsements, and concert performances.
Early Life and Background of EST Gee
EST Gee, whose full name is George Albert Stone III, was born on May 11, 1994, in Louisville, Kentucky. Growing up in the challenging neighborhoods of Louisville, he faced many hardships that would later fuel his music career.
From a young age, George experienced the struggles of street life firsthand, which deeply influenced his perspective and lyrical content.
His early life was marked by significant personal losses and adversity. His father was incarcerated when George was still young, leaving his mother to raise him and his siblings alone. Tragically, his mother passed away from leukemia during his teenage years, adding to the emotional burden he carried. Amidst these challenges, George found solace and expression through music, which became a vital outlet for him.
Despite his tough circumstances, George showed promise academically and athletically. He earned a football scholarship to Indiana State University, where he played as a linebacker. However, his passion for music eventually outweighed his athletic pursuits, leading him to leave school and focus entirely on rapping.
This decision marked the beginning of his journey to becoming EST Gee.
Adopting the stage name EST Gee, which stands for “Everybody Shine Together,” he began releasing independent mixtapes that quickly garnered local attention. His raw, unfiltered storytelling and distinctive voice set him apart, resonating with listeners who appreciated his authenticity. Tracks like “Stains” highlighted his ability to turn personal pain into powerful music.
The turning point came when he signed with Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG) in 2021, providing him with the platform to reach a broader audience. This partnership catapulted his career, allowing him to collaborate with prominent artists and release successful projects like “Bigger Than Life or Death.”
EST Gee’s Rise to Fame in the Rap Industry
Growing up in Louisville’s tough neighborhoods, EST Gee faced numerous challenges, including his father’s imprisonment and his mother’s tragic death from leukemia. These hardships deeply influenced his music, giving it an authentic and relatable edge.
He initially pursued football, earning a scholarship to Indiana State University, but his passion for music soon took over, leading him to leave school and focus entirely on his rap career.
EST Gee’s music career began with the release of independent mixtapes. His unique voice and raw storytelling quickly caught the attention of local audiences. His breakthrough came with the single “Stains” in 2019, which showcased his gritty style and lyrical prowess. This track earned him a loyal following and marked the beginning of his rise in the rap scene.
In 2021, EST Gee signed with Yo Gotti’s label, Collective Music Group (CMG), a pivotal moment that significantly boosted his career. Under CMG, he released the album “Bigger Than Life or Death,” featuring collaborations with major artists like Lil Baby, Future, and Young Thug. The success of this album propelled him into the mainstream, solidifying his status as one of rap’s rising stars.
Key Achievements and Milestones in EST Gee’s Career
EST Gee’s journey is filled with moments that reflect his hard work and perseverance. From his early days in Louisville, Kentucky, to becoming a nationally recognized artist, each step in his career is a testament to his skill and determination.
Here are some of the key achievements and milestones in EST Gee’s career:
- Signing with CMG (Collective Music Group): In 2020, EST Gee signed with Yo Gotti’s label, which was a pivotal moment in his career. This deal gave him a larger platform to reach fans and collaborate with other artists.
- Releasing “Ion Feel Nun” (2020): His debut album introduced his raw and authentic style, resonating with many listeners and setting the stage for his future success.
- Collaborations with Major Artists: EST Gee has worked with some big names in the industry, including Lil Baby, Future, and Lil Durk. These collaborations have helped him gain more visibility and respect in the rap community.
- Album “Bigger Than Life or Death” (2021): This album received critical acclaim and solidified his place in the hip-hop scene. Tracks like “5500 Degrees” and “Lick Back” became fan favorites.
- Performing at Rolling Loud: Being invited to perform at major music festivals like Rolling Loud has expanded his audience and showcased his energetic stage presence.
- “Last Ones Left” Joint Album with 42 Dugg (2022): This collaboration highlighted his versatility and ability to work well with other artists, resulting in a powerful project that fans loved.
- Chart Success: Songs from his albums have charted on Billboard, proving his growing popularity. “Bigger Than Life or Death” and its sequels have seen significant commercial success.
- Surviving Adversity: Despite being shot five times in 2019, including a bullet to the eye, EST Gee’s resilience and determination have only strengthened his resolve to succeed in the music industry.
The key achievements and milestones in EST Gee’s career reflect his unyielding drive and exceptional talent. From signing with a major label to releasing critically acclaimed albums and collaborating with top artists, each accomplishment has contributed to his rapid rise in the rap world. As EST Gee continues to evolve as an artist, fans can look forward to more groundbreaking music and unforgettable performances.
Which achievement or milestone do you think had the biggest impact on EST Gee’s career?
The Personal Life and Struggles of EST Gee
EST Gee, whose real name is George Albert Stone III, has faced significant challenges and hardships throughout his life that have shaped his personal journey and music career:
Early Life and Upbringing
- EST Gee was born on May 11, 1994 in Louisville, Kentucky and grew up in the Clarksdale Projects before moving to Tubman Court & Ellington Avenue in the southeastern part of the city.
- After graduating from St. Xavier High School in 2012, he received a football scholarship to Indiana State University, where he majored in communications. He later transferred to Sac City College and Stephen F. Austin University before dropping out in 2016.
Legal Troubles
- In 2016, EST Gee was arrested for drug trafficking and sentenced to four months of house arrest.
- This experience motivated him to pursue rap music seriously.
- During his house arrest, EST Gee adopted the stage name “EST Gee” (with EST standing for “Everybody Shines Together”) and began releasing music consistently on YouTube, building a local fanbase in Louisville.
Personal Tragedies
- In March 2020, EST Gee’s mother passed away due to leukemia. Just a week later, his brother was killed in a shooting in Louisville.
- In September 2019, EST Gee was shot five times following a music video shoot for his song “Taught Different”, getting hit in the stomach four times and once in his left eye. His brother was also shot in the leg during the incident.
- After being discharged from the hospital following a two-week stay, EST Gee retained most of his vision in the injured eye.
Overcoming Adversity
- Despite the setbacks and tragedies he faced, EST Gee remained determined to pursue his rap career. He continued releasing music, including his breakout mixtape “Ion Feel Nun” in March 2020.
- In January 2021, EST Gee signed a deal with Yo Gotti’s Collective Music Group (CMG), Interscope Records and Warlike, marking a major milestone in his career.
- His 2021 mixtape “Bigger Than Life or Death” debuted at #7 on the Billboard 200 chart, further establishing him as a rising star in hip-hop.
EST Gee’s personal life has been marked by adversity, from his upbringing in Louisville’s projects to his legal troubles, personal tragedies, and near-death experience. However, he has channeled these struggles into his music, using his platform to tell his story and inspire others who have faced similar challenges.
His resilience and determination have been key to his success in the face of overwhelming obstacles.
EST Gee’s Impact on the Rap Scene and Future Prospects
EST Gee’s music is a reflection of his life’s struggles and triumphs. His breakthrough came with the 2019 single “Stains,” which resonated with audiences due to its authentic depiction of street life. This track marked the beginning of his rise in popularity and established him as a voice for those facing similar hardships.
His lyrics often explore themes of survival, resilience, and ambition, connecting deeply with listeners who find his honesty refreshing and relatable.
One of the key moments in EST Gee’s career was signing with Yo Gotti’s label, Collective Music Group (CMG), in early 2021. This partnership provided him with a larger platform and resources to further his career. Under CMG, he released the album “Bigger Than Life or Death,” featuring collaborations with major artists like Lil Baby, Future, and Young Thug. The album’s success brought him mainstream attention and solidified his reputation as a rising star in the rap industry.
EST Gee’s influence extends beyond his own music. He has shone a spotlight on Louisville, inspiring other local artists to pursue their dreams. His success demonstrates that talent can come from any corner of the country, encouraging a new generation of rappers from less-recognized areas.
Looking to the future, EST Gee shows no signs of slowing down. Fans eagerly anticipate his next projects, expecting more of the raw, unfiltered storytelling that has become his trademark.
His ability to turn personal pain into powerful music suggests that he will continue to grow as an artist and remain relevant in the ever-evolving rap scene.
Conclusion
In conclusion, George Albert Stone III, known to the world as EST Gee, has made a significant impact on the rap scene with his powerful lyrics and compelling life story. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, his journey from aspiring football player to trending rapper is marked by resilience and raw talent.
His early works, particularly the 2019 mixtape “El Toro” and the 2020 mixtape “Ion Feel Nun,” captured the attention of audiences and industry insiders alike, leading to a major record deal with CMG and Interscope Records.
The release of his debut studio album “Bigger Than Life or Death” in 2021 was a defining moment in his career, featuring collaborations with top-tier artists and earning critical acclaim. This album not only elevated his status in the rap industry but also set the stage for future successes.
As of 2024, EST Gee’s estimated net worth of $4 million reflects his hard work, talent, and the significant impact of his music.
As EST Gee continues to evolve and release new music, his influence in the rap world is expected to grow even further. His story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that perseverance and dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements. For fans and newcomers alike, EST Gee’s career provides valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in the modern music landscape.