He is a well-known name in the rapping world - but some fans still have no idea what his stage name stands for. A$AP Rocky , born Rakim Athelaston Mayers, was named after the legendary American rapper Rakim. The chart-topping artist started rapping at the tender age of nine, under the guidance of his older brother.
Following his brother's tragic death when he was just 13, A$AP Rocky decided to pursue rapping more seriously. In 2007, he joined the A$AP Mob crew, a collective of rappers, producers, music video directors, and other creatives. All members adopted A$AP as part of their stage names, leading fans to question its meaning and why the rapper chose the moniker Rocky.
According to American Songwriter: "The name was conjured up when the rapper was back home in New York City. His entire crew had A$AP preceding their name. The collective of rappers, directors, fashion designers, and other artists was dubbed the A$AP Mob.
The acronym stands for 'Always Strive and Prosper.' "Rocky was a nickname his mother gave him when he was younger. Put the two together and you have an unforgettable rap alter ego.
" After his single Peso was leaked online in 2011, A$AP Rocky signed with Polo Grounds Music and released his debut mixtape, Live. Love. A$AP.
The statement further reads: "The mixtape was met with critical acclaim so much so that he landed a $3 million record deal with Polo Ground Music. His debut studio album, Long. Live.
A$AP, was released in 2013 and debuted at No.1 on the Bil.