30 Hip Hop Autobiographies to Check Out For National Reading Month
It’s easier than ever to turn on the TV or scroll through reel after reel on social media to pass the time and entertain yourself. But there’s still nothing like an excellent book to help whisk you away to another world. Reading has been proven to reduce stress and help you relax, improve your concentration and memory, expand your vocabulary and strengthen your writing abilities, enhance your knowledge, and increase your imagination and creativity.
March is National Reading Month, and although its main objective is encouraging and inspiring kids to read, we adults could probably use some reading time other than what we see on our phones or computer screens. And if we want to inspire kids to read, there’s nothing like setting an example to spark their interest. If they see you reading, they may also want to crack a book.
You can find hundreds of must-read lists online of the best fiction and nonfiction books, from classics to new releases. But we thought 105.1 The Bounce listeners might want to check out what some of their favorite artists have written about their lives and careers. Here are 30 autobiographical books from some of hip-hop’s biggest stars.
The Autobiography of Gucci Mane by Gucci Mane and Neil Martinez-Belkin
The book follows Gucci’s career from his early buzz in Atlanta to becoming king of the mixtape circuit, breaking into the mainstream, his incarceration for firearm possession, and his post-prison comeback.
EARL: The Autobiography of DMX by DMX and Smokey D Fontaine
This rags-to-riches story is a painfully honest look at DMX’s life where he recounts violent crimes he committed in his youth, brutal beatings he experienced from his mother and her boyfriends, and more stories that made him who he was, from impoverished beginnings to rap superstardom.
From Pieces to Weight: Once Upon a Time in Southside Queens by 50 Cent and Kris Ex
Curtis’ 50 Cent’ Jackson offers street wisdom, raw insight, and stories that are both introspective and, at times, violent as he tells his tale of achieving the American dream.
Decoded by Jay-Z and Dream Hampton
Jay-Z recounts the experiences that shaped his music, from his introduction to rap to his drug dealing past and the violent environment he grew up in. Jay also analyzes his lyrics and music and tells readers how he became one of the best in the game.
The Tao of Wu by Robert “The RZA” Fitzgerald
“Tao of Wu” is the follow-up to RZA’s 2005 book, “The Wu-Tang Manual.” This one is part memoir, part spiritual guide. RZA mixes in spiritual messages that helped him through his life with stories of Wu-Tang’s early days and the experiences that bonded the group.
From Staircase to Stage: The Story of Raekwon and The Wu-Tang Clan by Raekwon and Anthony Bozza
Raekwon gets honest about his childhood, his rise to the top of the rap world, and the trials and tribulations he overcame along the way.
Raw: My Journey Into the Wu-Tang by Lamont “U-God” Hawkins
The third Wu-Tang Clan-related memoir on this list is from U-God, who tells the Wu story from his perspective. U-God talks about their adversities and the group’s impact on hip-hop.
The Way I Am by Eminem and Sacha Jenkins
Eminem shares details about his private life and covers everything from his struggles with fame, addiction, depression, and the death of his best friend and fellow D-12 member, Proof. Even though most know his story from the movie “8 Mile”, this book goes deeper and further than the autobiographical film did.
The Keys: A Memoir by DJ Khaled
DJ Khaled believes in himself and thinks anyone can achieve what they set their minds to by believing in themselves. This is sort of a self-help book mixed with personal stories, his philosophies, and his personal keys to success.
One Day It’ll All Make Sense by Common and Adam Bradley
Stories about Common’s encounters with legends like Tupac, Biggie, Ice Cube, Lauryn Hill, Barack Obama, and Nelson Mandela highlighted the book, which has been called inspiring, funny, and gripping.
My Infamous Life: The Autobiography of Mobb Deep’s Prodigy by Albert “Prodigy” Johnson and Laura Checkoway
This book is a love letter to New York’s hip-hop scene. It details Prodigy’s battles with drugs and his struggles with sickle-cell anemia. Prodigy also gives his take on his beef with Jay-Z, Nas, Snoop Dogg, and Ja Rule, among others.
Gone Til November: A Journal of Rikers by Lil Wayne
In March of 2010, Lil Wayne began serving an eight-month sentence at New York’s Rikers Island Correctional Facility on weapons charges. Wayne was worried that eight months away from hip-hop would jeopardize his career. He had nothing to be concerned about as his career only grew. The content for this book was taken directly from the journals Wayne kept while he was locked up.
Diary of a Madman: The Geto Boys, Life, Death, and the Roots of Southern Rap by Brad “Scarface” Jordan and Benjamin Meadows Ingram
Scarface’s music dealt with subjects like death and depression. Sadly, he spoke from experience. “Diary of a Madman” gave him an outlet to talk about his suicide attempt, the two-year stay he had at a mental health facility as a teen, and the highs and lows of his career.
Mo Meta Blues: The World According to Questlove by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson and Ben Greenman
Questlove isn’t just a supremely talented musician; he’s a music fan first and foremost. This memoir features stories about music, including tales of meeting everyone from Prince to the rock band Kiss.
Unruly: The Highs and Lows of Becoming a Man by Ja Rule
Although he suffered one of the worst fall-offs in rap history, Ja Rule was once the most prominent commercial pop crossover artist in all hip-hop. In this book, he tells his story about the rise and fall of his career.
Ladies First: Revelations of a Strong Woman by Dana “Queen Latifah” Owens and Karen Hunter
Queen Latifah’s memoir explains how she turned every tragedy into an opportunity to grow. The female rap icon talks and writes about the loss she’s experienced, the rejection she faced, and the scrutiny she withstood.
Hurricanes: A Memoir by Rick Ross and Neil Martinez-Belkin
The book looks at Ross’s path from growing up on the streets during Miami’s crack epidemic to attending college on a football scholarship and his experiences as a correctional officer, rapper, and entrepreneur.
Ten Ways Not to Commit Suicide by Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and Darrell Dawsey
Run DMC’s Darryl McDaniels was in his 30s when he found out he was adopted, and the shocking confession from his adoptive parents caused his drug and alcohol addiction to spiral out of control. DMC sank into depression and even considered taking his own life. Thankfully, he was able to change the course of his life. After years of sobriety and reflection, he wrote this book about the loneliness, isolation, alienation, and lack of emotional support that led him to consider suicide. This strikingly personal book has undoubtedly helped others suffering similar situations.
It’s Like That: A Spiritual Memoir by Rev. Joseph “Run” Simmons
The “Run” half of Run DMC also wrote a book, this one focusing on his journey from fame to faith. Run writes about his spiritual metamorphosis and the void left by being part of one of the most legendary hip-hop groups ever. He offers his perspective on the complexity of fame and about finding peace and purpose in spirituality.
Sweat the Technique: Revelations on Creativity from the Lyrical Genius by Rakim
William Michael Griffin Jr., better known as the second half of Eric B. & Rakim, was a trailblazer in hip-hop and inspired a whole generation of rappers. Rakim’s memoir is divided into purpose, inspiration, spirituality, consciousness, and energy. He tells his story and even serves as a guide to constructing a song verse.
Beastie Boys Book by Michael Diamond and Adam Horovitz
The nearly 600-page “Beastie Boys Book” is a detailed trip through Mike D, King Ad-Rock, and MCA’s lives and their evolution into one of the biggest-selling rap groups ever. The book has firsthand accounts of their road to stardom, a career’s worth of photos, original illustrations, food recipes, a graphic novel, mixtape playlists, and pieces from guest contributors. It’s quirky, entertaining, and enlightening, like The Beastie Boys.
The Book of Jose: A Memoir by Fat Joe and Shaheem Reid
Born to a Puerto Rican and Cuban family in the projects of the South Bronx, Joseph Antonio Cartagena was heading down a dangerous path of crime when he turned his energy towards hip-hop instead. “The Book of Jose” talks about his brush with death and how he managed to survive despite all odds.
Cross The Tracks: A Memoir by Boosie BadAzz
Boosie BadAzz tells his tale and recounts his path from a death row inmate to a redeemed rapper. Boosie writes about everything he overcame, including surviving kidney cancer and his life-threatening diabetes diagnosis.
I Make My Own Rules by LL Cool J and Karen Hunter
The man born Jason Todd Smith was one of hip hop’s first superstars, so LL Cool J should have been one of the first rappers to write a memoir. The book covers his life, from childhood struggles to success as a hip-hop star.
Let’s Talk About Pep by Sandy “Pepa” Denton and Karen Hunter
In the description for this memoir, Sandy “Pepa” Denton is described as a “true pioneer, survivor, and inspiration to women everywhere.” And her autobiography proves that to be true. One half of the duo, Salt-N-Pepa, Pep candidly covers her troubled childhood, surviving abuse, her successful career, her failed marriages and escape from domestic abuse and her reality TV comeback. She also writes about crossing paths with Queen Latifah, Martin Lawrence, Janice Dickinson, Missy Elliott, LL Cool J, Ron Jeremy, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopez, and others.
Vibrate Higher: A Rap Story by Talib Kweli
Talib Kweli tells readers about his Brooklyn roots, how his parents raised him, and what got him into hip-hop. He also gives insight into his albums, collaborations, relationships, and controversial views.
The Book of Luke: My Fight for Truth, Justice, and Liberty City by Luther Campbell
Luther Campbell, aka Uncle Luke of 2 Live Crew, shares his incredible journey from the rough streets of Miami’s Liberty City to the top of the rap game. This autobiography highlights his accomplishments as a music mogul and reveals his struggle for free speech and battle in front of the Supreme Court.
Purpose: An Immigrant’s Story by Wyclef Jean and Anthony Bozza
It is a story that goes from the rugged environment of Haiti to the glitz and glamour of the American music scene. Wyclef Jean’s story is inspiring and revealing. He covers the Fugees and his solo career and explains how he rose above the noise and made his voice heard.
Young, Rich, and Dangerous: The Making of a Music Mogul by Jermaine Dupri and Samantha Marshall
Jermaine Dupri gives readers an all-access pass into the music industry’s backstage, from studio sessions to awards shows. This isn’t just an autobiography; Jermaine offers industry insights and advice for aspiring music moguls.
Adversity for Sale: Ya Gotta Believe by Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins
Jeezy’s New York Times Best Seller gives fans an inside look into his life, his battle with mental health issues and depression, and his rise to success.
Speaking of National Reading Month, Mean Jean & Shannon Renee are on a mission to help kids get the most out of reading. Please find out how your child could win a $100 Visa gift card thanks to our friends at Michigan First Credit Union. Learn more right here.
All these books and more are available online, but visiting your local bookstore will open up a world of choices you can check out firsthand. Support your local bookstores. Below is an excellent list of some in our area.
National Read a Book Day: Great Independent Bookstores in Metro Detroit
