R.A. The Rugged Man: Respected globally for his deft lyrical skills R.A. was courted by just about every major Hip Hop label from his early teens. His untouchable rep sparked a now infamous nine label bidding war which would see him sign to Jive Records. Industry politics saw his debut album shelved but in spite of this he would go on to work with Notorious B.I.G. Mobb Deep, Wu Tang Clan, Kool G Rap and Eric Sermon amongst many others. One of the first artists to sign to Rawkus then later signing to the Independent Nature Sounds Label. R.A. continues to sell out shows worldwide, one of the few, true rap legends kicking it today.

Few artists are ever as controversial as they are influential. New York legend R.A. the Rugged Man has lived up to such a moniker by simultaneously inspiring generations of rappers while being banned from every major record label’s offices and even barred from performing during the late-90s underground explosion
Beginning his music career at age 12, building a reputation locally for his lyrical skills. R.A. signed to major label Jive Records at age 18.
He has worked with the likes of Mobb Deep, Wu-Tang Clan, Kool G Rap, and Notorious B.I.G., as well as producers Erick Sermon, Trackmasters, DJ Quik, The Alchemist, J-Zone, and Ayatollah.