Rick Ross (born William Leonard Roberts II on January 28, 1976) is an American rapper, entrepreneur, author, and record executive widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in modern hip hop. Known for his commanding baritone voice, cinematic storytelling, and luxury-driven rap persona, he built a career that transformed street narratives into mainstream success.

From topping the Billboard 200 with multiple albums to founding Maybach Music Group (MMG), Rick Ross has shaped 21st-century rap culture while expanding into business, publishing, and brand ventures.

Early Life and Education

William Leonard Roberts II was born on January 28, 1976, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, and raised in Carol City, Florida. He attended Miami Carol City Senior High School before earning a football scholarship to Albany State University.

Before music stardom, he worked as a correctional officer in Florida from 1995 to 1997, a chapter that later became a source of public controversy.

Music Career Breakthrough

“Hustlin’” and Def Jam Era

Rick Ross’ breakout moment came in 2006 with the release of his debut single Hustlin’. The track sparked a major label bidding war before he signed a multimillion-dollar deal with Def Jam Recordings under the leadership of Jay-Z.

His debut album, Port of Miami, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 in August 2006 and was certified Gold by the RIAA.

Chart-Topping Albums

Rick Ross continued his dominance with multiple No. 1 albums:

• Trilla (2008)
• Deeper Than Rap (2009)
• God Forgives, I Don’t (2012)
• Mastermind (2014)

His 2010 album Teflon Don featured the hit single Aston Martin Music, which achieved multi-platinum certification.

Later projects include:

• Rather You Than Me
• Port of Miami 2
• Richer Than I Ever Been

Maybach Music Group (MMG)

In 2008, Rick Ross founded Maybach Music Group, launching the careers of major artists including:

• Meek Mill
• Wale
• French Montana

MMG became one of the most commercially successful rap collectives of the 2010s.

Awards and Recognition

Rick Ross has received nine Grammy nominations and multiple industry honors. In 2010 and 2011, hip hop magazine The Source named him “Man of the Year,” while MTV crowned him “Hottest MC in the Game” in 2011.

Business Ventures

Beyond music, Rick Ross is an active entrepreneur:

• Owner of multiple Wingstop franchise locations
• Author of The Perfect Day to Boss Up (New York Times Bestseller, 2021)
• Real estate investor
• Brand ambassador and liquor partnerships

His business mindset has become central to his public image as a “boss” and mogul.

Health Challenges

Rick Ross has faced serious health scares:

• Suffered seizures in 2011
• Hospitalized in 2018 after being found unresponsive

He later attributed earlier health issues to exhaustion and lifestyle stress, using the experiences as motivation for personal growth.

Legal Issues and Controversies

Throughout his career, Ross has faced various legal battles, including:

• Lawsuits over his stage name by former drug kingpin “Freeway” Rick Ross
• Arrests related to marijuana possession
• 2015 assault charges (later resolved through plea agreement)

Despite controversies, he maintained commercial success and brand strength.

Personal Life

He is a father of five children and has been publicly linked to several high-profile relationships. He identifies as a Christian and has spoken openly about faith influencing his career decisions.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Rick Ross’ influence extends beyond music charts. His grand, cinematic rap style redefined Southern hip hop aesthetics and helped usher luxury rap into mainstream dominance.

His ability to blend street authenticity with executive-level branding has made him one of the most commercially strategic rappers of his generation.

Rick Ross Age (2026)

As of 2026, Rick Ross is 50 years old.
He was born on January 28, 1976.