| Early Life SKG, born Helecia Choyce, is a rapper hailing from Los Angeles, California. Her journey into music began at a young age, influenced significantly by her older brother, Trayveon Choyce, who introduced her to various music genres around the age of five or six. Trayveon’s teachings emphasized the connection between music and their environment, instilling in SKG a deep appreciation for how music can serve as a form of emotional processing and cultural expression.
Growing up in Los Angeles, specifically in neighborhoods such as Crenshaw and Slauson, SKG was immersed in a rich cultural tapestry that influenced her artistic development. Her family history is marked by a significant migration, as her grand- parents relocated from New York to Los Angeles in the 1960s. This background connected her to the cultural dynamics of the area, which included the historical presence of the gang culture and lifestyle. SKG reflects on how these surroundings shaped her identity, stating that despite the influences of her environment, the essence of her music is about unity and transcending local affiliations. The impact of her upbringing is evident in her work as she strives to rebrand herself from her early association with Death Row Records, aiming to establish a broader audience and a distinct musical identity. Her roots in a family where music and culture were paramount have been foundational to her passion for both music and poetry, propelling her into a career that blends personal storytelling with broader cultural themes.
Career Helecia Choyce, professionally known as SKG, began her career in the music industry after being signed to the iconic Death Row Records by Suge Knight, who gave her the moniker SKG. This moment marked a significant turning point in her career, as she became aligned with influential figures in hip-hop history, including Tupac Shakur and Doggpound and Above The Law’s, COLD187UM contributing to her status as a notable artist in the genre.
Growing up in Los Angeles, California, SKG developed a profound love for music through her older brother, Trayveon Choyce, who introduced her to various musical influences from a young age. Her artistic journey was shaped by the environment of Crenshaw and Slauson, where she found inspiration in the works of legendary artists like Tupac, Snoop Dogg, and Biggie.
Despite facing numerous challenges within the music industry, including the per- vasive negativity that can accompany it, SKG cites her dedication to her craft as her greatest attribute. She describes herself as “the best” at what she does, always striving to raise the bar in her artistic endeavors. Her latest project, an album titled “Unfinished Business,” reflects her personal struggles and the obstacles she has faced in completing her work, serving as a testament to her resilience and commitment to her artistry. |
