BIOGRAPHY
Memphis Bleek, born Malik Deshawn Cox on June 23, 1978, is an American rapper and actor who gained prominence in the late 1990s as a protégé and close associate of Jay-Z. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Memphis Bleek became a key member of Jay-Z's Roc-A-Fella Records and played a significant role in the label's success.
Memphis Bleek's introduction to the music scene came through his association with Jay-Z, who featured him on various tracks. Bleek made his debut appearance on the song "Coming of Age" from Jay-Z's debut album, "Reasonable Doubt" (1996). His distinct voice and delivery caught the attention of listeners, setting the stage for his own solo career.
In 1999, Memphis Bleek released his debut album, "Coming of Age," which featured collaborations with Jay-Z and other Roc-A-Fella artists. The album's title track, featuring Jay-Z, became one of his notable singles. His sophomore album, "The Understanding" (2000), continued to showcase his affiliation with Jay-Z and the Roc-A-Fella family.
Memphis Bleek continued to release albums, including "M.A.D.E." (2003), "534" (2005), and "The Process" (2015). While he achieved moderate success, he remained closely associated with Jay-Z and continued to collaborate with other artists within the Roc-A-Fella camp.
Beyond his music career, Memphis Bleek has explored other ventures, including acting and entrepreneurship. He has maintained a presence in the hip-hop scene, making occasional appearances on various projects.
While not achieving the same level of mainstream success as some of his Roc-A-Fella peers, Memphis Bleek remains a notable figure in hip-hop, particularly for his association with Jay-Z during the label's formative years. His contributions to the Roc-A-Fella legacy and his collaborations with Jay-Z have solidified his place in the history of the genre.