Roc Marciano facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Roc Marciano
Birth name	Rahkeim Calief Meyer
Born	(1978-02-11) February 11, 1978 (age 47) New York, U.S.
Genres	East Coast hip hop alternative hip hop
Occupation(s)	Rapper songwriter producer
Years active	1999–present
Labels	Fat Beats Decon Man Bites Dog Pimpire Marci Enterprises Art That Kills
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Rahkeim Calief Meyer (born February 11, 1978), known as Roc Marciano, is an American rapper and music producer. He is famous for his unique style of rap. He uses clever rhymes and storytelling in his songs. His music often features beats made from samples, sometimes without drums.

Many people call him the "Godfather of the Underground." This is because he helped bring back a certain style of rap in the early 2010s. His first album, Marcberg (2010), was very important. It influenced many other artists.

Since then, Marciano has released 11 studio albums. He has also put out many mixtapes and EPs. He often produces his own music. However, he has also worked with famous producers like DJ Muggs and The Alchemist. He frequently collaborates with other artists too. These include Knowledge the Pirate, Ka, and Action Bronson.

Roc Marciano's Music Journey

Early Career and First Steps

Roc Marciano began his music career in 1999. He joined a group called Flipmode Squad. He appeared on their songs "Whatcha Come Around Here For" and "The Heist." In 2001, he left the group.

He then formed his own underground hip hop group called the U.N. They released an album in 2004. Marciano also appeared on other artists' albums. These included a Wu-Tang Clan compilation in 2005. He also featured on Pete Rock's album in 2008. These appearances earned him praise.

Becoming a Solo Artist

In 2008, Roc Marciano decided to focus on his solo music. His first album, Marcberg, came out in May 2010. He produced this album himself. Critics loved it, and it became very popular.

In 2011, he worked with the group Gangrene. They released an EP together called Greneberg. He also collaborated with Kendrick Lamar on a song. This song was called "Up Against the Wall."

His second solo album, Reloaded, was released on November 15, 2012. Music critics described it as a great example of his unique style.

Later Albums and Collaborations

In late 2013, Marciano released a free mixtape. It was called The ... Strikes Back. This mixtape was a preview for his third studio album. That album was Marci Beaucoup. He produced this album himself. It featured artists like Action Bronson and Ka.

On February 21, 2017, Roc Marciano released his fourth album, Rosebudd's Revenge. This album included collaborations with Ka. It also featured production from other artists and Marciano himself.

His fifth album, RR2: The Bitter Dose, came out on February 27, 2018. It featured guest artists like Action Bronson. Later that year, on September 18, 2018, he released Behold a Dark Horse. Critics also liked this album. On October 15, 2018, he released Kaos. This was a collaboration album with producer DJ Muggs.

In 2019, Marciano released his seventh album, Marcielago. He followed this with Mt. Marci in 2020. His album Marciology was released in 2024.

Roc Marciano's Artistic Style

Musical Influences

Roc Marciano has shared some of the artists who inspired him. These include famous rappers like Rakim, Kool Keith, and MF DOOM. He also mentioned groups like EPMD and Public Enemy. These artists helped shape his unique sound.

Production Techniques

Marciano uses older music equipment to create his beats. He often uses machines like the Akai MPC60 and SP-1200. He likes the clear, strong sound these machines produce. He later upgraded to the MPC-2500. This machine had more memory and was more flexible. It helped him create his special looping style.

His hands-on approach creates a "cinematic" sound. It often reminds listeners of old crime movies. This sound brings to mind the gritty, old New York City where he grew up.

Roc Marciano's Music

Studio Albums

Collaborative Albums

• Kaos (2018) (with DJ Muggs)
• Ekphrasis (2021) (with Bronze Nazareth)
• The Elephant Man's Bones (2022) (with The Alchemist)
• The Skeleton Key (2024) (with The Alchemist)
• The Coldest Profession (2025) (with DJ Premier)