Waka Flocka and Gucci had known each other since Flocka was 19, and the two had a mutual connection through Flocka's mother. One person who saw that potential was Gucci Mane.

Although Waka Flocka wasn't an instant hit like many other artists, he nonetheless showed that he had potential. This mixtape contained this hit 'O Let's Do It,' which became moderately successful. In 2008, Waka Flocka was ready to release his mixtape, Salute Me or Shoot Me Vol. Later, Gucci Mane added 'Flocka Flame,' completing his moniker. However, one of his cousins soon dubbed him 'Waka' after the catchphrase used by a character from The Muppets. At this point in time, the rapper did yet not have his trademark stage name. He also worked with a local producer called Tay Beatz, and together they started piecing together a mixtape that would eventually launch Waka Flocka's career. The young rapper soon got to work and began to write his own raps. At the time Gucci Mane was represented by Waka Flocka's mother. The turning point came when Waka Flocka saw Gucci Mane performing on stage. He spent a lot of time on the streets of Atlanta, especially after his older brother passed away after a car accident.Īt age 14, Waka Flocka started to show a greater interest in music. The thought of pursuing a career in music wasn't even on his mind, despite the fact that his mother's connections would have made it easier to pursue this career path.ĭespite the fact that his family was relatively affluent, Waka Flocka became involved in crime and gang activities. Initially, Waka Flocka showed very little interest in music and preferred to focus on basketball. Debrah was the CEO of a prominent artist management company called Mizay Entertainment. His family was upper-middle class, and his mother, Debra Antney, was involved in the music industry before Waka Flocka was born. He grew up in Georgia, although he was born in New York. Waka Flocka was born Joaquin James Malphurs on May 31st of 1986.

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