Valentia Cantwell

Written by Valentia Cantwell

Published: 25 Jul 2025

35-facts-about-joyner-lucas
Source: Billboard.com

Who is Joyner Lucas? Joyner Lucas, born Gary Maurice Lucas Jr., is a rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer from Worcester, Massachusetts. Known for his rapid-fire delivery and thought-provoking lyrics, Lucas has made a significant impact on the hip-hop scene. His breakout single, "Ross Capicchioni," showcased his storytelling prowess, while tracks like "I'm Not Racist" sparked conversations about race relations in America. Joyner Lucas has collaborated with industry giants like Eminem, Chris Brown, and Logic, proving his versatility and talent. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his music, these 35 facts will give you a deeper understanding of this multifaceted artist.

Table of Contents

Early Life and Background

Joyner Lucas, a name synonymous with lyrical prowess, has a fascinating backstory. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about his early life and background.

  1. Born Gary Maurice Lucas Jr. on August 17, 1988, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Joyner Lucas grew up in a musically inclined family.
  2. He started rapping at the age of 10, inspired by his uncle, who was also a rapper.
  3. Joyner attended South High Community School in Worcester but dropped out to pursue his music career full-time.
  4. His stage name, Joyner Lucas, is a combination of his middle name and the last name of a childhood friend who passed away.

Musical Career Beginnings

Joyner's journey in the music industry began long before he became a household name. Here are some key moments from his early career.

  1. In 2007, he released his first mixtape under the name "G-Storm."
  2. He later adopted the stage name Future Joyner and released several more mixtapes.
  3. To avoid confusion with the rapper Future, he eventually settled on the name Joyner Lucas.
  4. His 2015 mixtape, "Along Came Joyner," gained significant attention and marked the beginning of his rise to fame.

Breakthrough and Major Hits

Joyner Lucas's breakthrough came with a series of impactful releases that showcased his unique style and lyrical depth.

  1. The 2015 single "Ross Capicchioni" told the harrowing true story of a Detroit teenager who survived a gang initiation shooting.
  2. In 2017, his song "I'm Not Racist" went viral for its raw and controversial take on race relations in America.
  3. The music video for "I'm Not Racist" has amassed millions of views on YouTube, cementing Joyner's place in the industry.
  4. He collaborated with Chris Brown on the 2018 project "Angels & Demons," which featured the hit single "Stranger Things."

Collaborations and Features

Joyner Lucas has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile artist.

  1. He featured on Eminem's 2018 track "Lucky You," which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Song.
  2. Joyner has also collaborated with artists like Logic, Tech N9ne, and J. Cole.
  3. His 2020 album "ADHD" includes features from Young Thug, Fabolous, and King OSF.
  4. The song "Will," a tribute to actor Will Smith, received praise from Smith himself and led to a remix featuring the actor.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his music, Joyner Lucas has a rich personal life and a variety of interests that influence his work.

  1. Joyner is a father to a son named Joyner Messiah Lucas, born in 2016.
  2. He has openly discussed his struggles with ADHD, which inspired the title of his 2020 album.
  3. Joyner is an advocate for mental health awareness and often addresses the topic in his music.
  4. He is a fan of comic books and superhero movies, frequently referencing them in his lyrics.

Awards and Recognition

Joyner Lucas's talent has not gone unnoticed, earning him numerous accolades and nominations.

  1. He received his first Grammy nomination in 2019 for Best Music Video for "I'm Not Racist."
  2. In 2020, he was nominated for Best Rap Performance for his feature on Eminem's "Lucky You."
  3. Joyner won the BET Hip Hop Award for Best Impact Track in 2018 for "I'm Not Racist."
  4. He has been recognized by XXL magazine, making their Freshman Class list in 2018.

Social Media and Online Presence

Joyner Lucas has a strong online presence, using social media to connect with fans and promote his work.

  1. His YouTube channel has over 5 million subscribers, with many of his music videos garnering millions of views.
  2. Joyner is active on Instagram, where he shares updates about his music and personal life with his 2 million followers.
  3. He uses Twitter to engage with fans and share his thoughts on various topics, boasting over 500,000 followers.
  4. Joyner's TikTok account features behind-the-scenes content and has quickly gained a substantial following.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Joyner Lucas is not just a talented artist; he is also committed to giving back to his community and supporting various causes.

  1. He has donated to several charities, including those focused on mental health and youth programs.
  2. Joyner has organized free concerts and events in his hometown of Worcester to support local youth.
  3. He frequently speaks at schools and community centers, sharing his story and encouraging young people to pursue their dreams.
  4. Joyner has partnered with organizations to provide resources and support for individuals struggling with ADHD.

Future Projects and Aspirations

Joyner Lucas shows no signs of slowing down, with numerous projects and aspirations on the horizon.

  1. He has hinted at working on a new album, teasing fans with snippets of unreleased tracks on social media.
  2. Joyner has expressed interest in branching out into acting, with plans to pursue roles in film and television.
  3. He aims to continue using his platform to raise awareness about mental health and inspire others through his music.

Joyner Lucas: A Remarkable Journey

Joyner Lucas has carved a unique path in the music industry. His lyrical prowess, storytelling ability, and unwavering authenticity have set him apart. From his early days in Worcester, Massachusetts, to his rise as a Grammy-nominated artist, Lucas has consistently pushed boundaries. His music videos, often thought-provoking and controversial, reflect his commitment to addressing social issues and personal struggles.

Lucas's collaborations with industry giants like Eminem and Chris Brown highlight his versatility and respect within the hip-hop community. His dedication to his craft and his fans is evident in every project he undertakes. As he continues to evolve, one thing remains clear: Joyner Lucas is a force to be reckoned with in the world of music. His journey is far from over, and fans eagerly await what he has in store next.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.