Hitmaka facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hitmaka
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Ward in 2024
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Christian J. Ward |
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| Born | September 9, 1985 Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
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| Years active | 2001–2010 (rapper) 2010–present (producer) |
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| Children | 3 |
Christian J. Ward (born September 9, 1985), known professionally as Hitmaka, is an American music producer, songwriter, and former rapper. He was born and grew up in Chicago, Illinois. When he was 14 years old in 2001, Ward became the first artist to sign with rapper DMX's record label, Bloodline Records. At that time, he used the stage name Iceberg.
Later, in 2007, he signed with Epic Records and started using the name Yung Berg. His first song, "... Lady," became very popular, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. He also appeared on Ray J's song "... Can I," which reached number three. His own song, "The Business," also did well. These songs were released before his first album, Look What You Made Me, came out in 2008.
After releasing more music as a rapper, Ward decided to focus on making music for other artists. By 2014, he became a successful music producer. He has helped create many hit songs for famous artists like Big Sean, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Meek Mill, and Megan Thee Stallion. In 2020, he was given an important job as Vice President of A&R (Artists and Repertoire) at Atlantic Records. This means he helps find and develop new musical talent.
Contents
Hitmaka's Music Career Journey
Early Years in Music (2001-2005)
In 2001, when Christian Ward was still young, he signed with rapper DMX's record label, Bloodline Records. He made his first appearance on the soundtrack for the movie Exit Wounds with a song called "Dog 4 Life." He used the name Iceberg then.
However, his parents sent him to a military boarding school in Montana in 2001. After finishing school in 2003, he moved to Los Angeles, California. In 2005, Ward worked with Chicago rapper Shawnna. He helped her during performances and with recording.
Becoming a Star (2007-Present)
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In 2007, Ward appeared in the music video for singer Kat DeLuna's song "Whine Up." His first album, Look What You Made Me, was released in 2008. It reached number 20 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 2 on the Top Rap Albums chart.
Ward also started a production group called The Dream Team in 2009 with his older brother K-Young and producer Rob Holladay. In 2012, he helped write and produce songs for Nicki Minaj's album The Pinkprint.
In 2014, Ward was part of the first season of the VH1 TV show Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood. This show followed parts of his life. In 2020, Ward was the executive producer for rapper T.I.'s album The L.I.B.R.A.. This means he helped guide the creation of the entire album.
Hitmaka's Personal Life
Experiences with Robbery
On August 23, 2008, it was reported that Ward had an incident where his special "Transformers chain" was taken. Later, on October 5, 2010, another rapper said he had taken Ward's "Batman chain." Ward stated that this chain was not very important to him.
Hitmaka's Music Releases
- Look What You Made Me (2008)
- 1-800-HIT-EAZY (with Eric Bellinger) (2021)
- Big Tuh (2026)
- TBA (To Be Announced) (2026)
- TBA
Hitmaka on Television
| Year | Show | Role | Notes |
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| 2014 | Love & Hip Hop: Hollywood | Himself |
Images for kids
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Ward in 2024
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Ward in 2007
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Hitmaka in 2008
See also
In Spanish: Hitmaka para niños
