Metro Boomin, born Leland Tyler Wayne, is a name synonymous with modern hip-hop production. Known for his dark, melodic beats and collaboration with top-tier artists, Metro has carved out a unique niche in the music industry. From his early days hustling beats on Twitter to becoming a chart-topping producer, his journey is a testament to talent and perseverance. Beyond his music, Metro Boomin is also an entrepreneur and philanthropist, continually influencing the industry and giving back to his community.
1. Metro Boomin’s Real Name: Who Knew?
Metro Boomin, the maestro behind some of your favorite hip-hop tracks, was actually born Leland Tyler Wayne. Imagine dropping beats with a name like Leland—no offense, Mr. Wayne! His stage name, Metro Boomin, has a much cooler vibe, don’t you think? He earned the nickname “Metro” because of his frequent travel between St. Louis and Atlanta during his early career. The “Boomin” part? Well, that’s just a testament to how explosive his beats are. Little did he know, this catchy moniker would become a household name in the music industry.
2. Early Start: DJing at Age 13
Most of us were still figuring out how to avoid homework at 13, but Metro was already DJing and producing beats! He got his first laptop and began experimenting with production software. His mom played a significant role in his budding career, driving him from St. Louis to Atlanta for networking opportunities. Imagine being chauffeured to music success—thanks, Mom! By high school, he was producing five beats a day, perfecting his craft. This early start laid the foundation for his later success and demonstrated his unwavering commitment to music.
3. High School Hustle: Beats Over Books
While in high school, Metro Boomin didn’t just hit the books; he was busy hitting the beats! He’d spend hours after school creating music, often sending out his beats to well-known artists. He even started a Twitter hustle, DMing artists and building his network. Guess what? It worked! His persistence paid off when OJ da Juiceman started using his beats. Balancing schoolwork and beat-making was no small feat, but Metro managed to do both, proving that passion and hard work can indeed go hand in hand.
4. College Dropout: Following in Kanye’s Footsteps?
Metro enrolled at Morehouse College to study Business Management but dropped out after just one semester. Inspired much by Kanye West’s “College Dropout”? Maybe. He decided to focus solely on his music career, which turned out to be a fantastic decision. College might have missed out on Leland Wayne, but the music world gained Metro Boomin! His decision to leave college wasn’t easy, but it underscored his belief in his own potential and commitment to pursuing his dreams without any distractions.
5. The Breakout Moment: Future Collaboration
Metro Boomin’s big break came when he started collaborating with Future. Their partnership gave us hits like “Honest” and “Karate Chop.” The duo’s chemistry is undeniable, and their collaborations have become the gold standard in hip-hop production. Metro once joked that if he wasn’t producing, he’d be “sleeping.” Thank goodness for sleepless nights, right? Their collaboration not only boosted Metro’s career but also solidified Future’s position in the industry, showing that a great partnership can lead to monumental success.
6. Tagline Fame: “If Young Metro Don’t Trust You…”
“If Young Metro don’t trust you, I’m gon’ shoot you”—ring any bells? This iconic tagline, voiced by Future, became synonymous with Metro Boomin’s tracks. It’s not just a cool catchphrase; it’s a stamp of quality. Fans started using it in memes, and even Kanye West featured it in his song “Father Stretch My Hands Pt. 1.” Now that’s influence! The phrase took on a life of its own, becoming a cultural phenomenon and a signifier of Metro’s trusted production skills in the hip-hop world.
7. Hitmaker: Chart-Topping Producer
Metro Boomin isn’t just a beatmaker; he’s a hitmaker! He’s produced chart-toppers for the likes of Drake, Migos, Post Malone, and many more. From “Jumpman” to “Bad and Boujee,” if it’s a banger, Metro’s probably behind it. His beats have a signature sound—dark, melodic, and hard-hitting, making every track unforgettable. Each collaboration brings out a different aspect of his talent, allowing him to innovate and stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. His ability to craft hits consistently sets him apart from other producers.
8. Award-Winning Talent
Metro’s talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s bagged several awards, including BET Hip Hop Awards and BMI R&B/Hip-Hop Awards. His trophy cabinet must be overflowing! He was even named “Producer of the Year” multiple times. It’s safe to say, Metro Boomin is a certified legend in the music industry. His awards reflect not just his skill but also his influence and contribution to the genre, making him one of the most respected figures in hip-hop production today.
9. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Boominati Worldwide
In 2017, Metro Boomin launched his own label, Boominati Worldwide. Talk about leveling up! The label aims to foster new talent and give artists the freedom to create without constraints. With Metro at the helm, Boominati is destined to make waves in the music industry. This venture shows Metro’s vision for the future of music and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists and producers. By creating his own label, Metro ensures that his influence will extend far beyond his own music.
10. Iconic Collabs: The Who’s Who of Hip-Hop
Metro Boomin has worked with an impressive roster of artists. From Kanye West and Travis Scott to The Weeknd and 21 Savage, he’s produced hits for the crème de la crème of the industry. Each collaboration is a testament to his versatility and genius. He once said he’d love to work with Adele. Imagine a Metro Boomin x Adele track—mind-blowing! These collaborations not only expand his musical horizons but also bring fresh sounds to the forefront, keeping the industry vibrant and dynamic.
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11. Billboard Domination
Metro Boomin’s tracks often dominate the Billboard charts. He’s had multiple singles and albums in the top spots, cementing his status as a top-tier producer. In 2017, his joint album with 21 Savage and Offset, “Without Warning,” debuted at number four on the Billboard 200. Not bad for a college dropout, huh? His consistent presence on the charts is a testament to his ability to understand and anticipate musical trends, ensuring that his beats resonate with a broad audience.
12. Love for Video Games
When Metro isn’t making beats, he’s gaming. A self-proclaimed video game enthusiast, he often unwinds by playing his favorite games. He’s particularly fond of the “Call of Duty” series. Maybe one day, we’ll see a Metro Boomin-produced video game soundtrack. Fingers crossed! His love for gaming provides a balance to his intense work life, giving him a way to relax and recharge. It’s also a testament to his diverse interests and the creative ways he finds inspiration, whether in music or digital worlds.
13. Inspiration from Horror Films
Believe it or not, Metro Boomin draws inspiration from horror films. He loves the suspense and tension these movies create, which often translates into his music. His beats have a cinematic quality, making listeners feel like they’re in a thrilling movie scene. This unique source of inspiration sets him apart from other producers and adds a dramatic flair to his tracks. By incorporating elements from horror films into his music, Metro creates a distinctive, immersive listening experience that keeps fans coming back for more.
14. Metro’s Role in the Trap Genre
Metro Boomin has played a significant role in popularizing the trap genre. His work with artists like Future, 21 Savage, and Migos has defined the sound of modern trap music. His innovative production techniques have influenced countless other producers, making him a trailblazer in the genre. His contributions have helped shape the direction of hip-hop, ensuring that trap remains a dominant force in the music industry. Metro’s ability to continually push the boundaries of the genre keeps his music fresh and relevant.
15. The Metro Boomin Foundation
In 2018, Metro Boomin announced the launch of the Metro Boomin Foundation, aiming to provide resources and support for underprivileged communities. His foundation focuses on education, music, and mental health awareness. Metro’s philanthropic efforts show that he’s not just about making hits; he’s also about making a difference. His foundation is a testament to his commitment to giving back and using his platform for positive change. By supporting various initiatives, Metro helps create opportunities for others to succeed.