Waka Flocka Flame facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Waka Flocka Flame
Waka Flocka Flame performing in 2016
Background information
Birth name	Juaquin James Malphurs
Born	(1986-05-31) May 31, 1986 (age 39) New York City, U.S.
Origin	Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
Genres	Southern hip hop trap
Occupation(s)	Rapper songwriter
Years active	2008–present
Labels	36 Brick House Dusk Til Dawn E1 Brick Squad Monopoly 1017 Brick Squad Asylum Warner Bros. RBC Mizay So Icey
Associated acts	Frenchie French Montana Gucci Mane Lex Luger Southside Travis Porter Young Scooter Zaytoven
Signature

Juaquin James Malphurs (born May 31, 1986), known as Waka Flocka Flame, is an American rapper. He grew up in Atlanta, Georgia.

He became famous in 2009 with his song "O Let's Do It". This song made it onto the Billboard Hot 100 music chart. After this success, he signed with Gucci Mane's record label, 1017 Records.

In 2010, his song "No Hands" was a huge hit. It featured other artists, Roscoe Dash and Wale. This song sold over 10 million copies, earning a "diamond" award. Other popular songs like "Hard in da Paint" and "Grove St. Party" came out around this time. These songs were part of his first album, Flockaveli, released in 2010. This album reached number six on the Billboard 200 chart.

His second album, Triple F Life: Friends, Fans & Family, came out in 2012. It also did well, reaching number ten on the charts. Songs from this album included "Round of Applause" with Drake.

Early Life and Nickname

Juaquin Malphurs was born in South Jamaica, Queens, New York City. Later, his family moved to Riverdale, Georgia. His mother, Debra Antney, was a manager for rapper Gucci Mane. She also runs an entertainment company.

His cousin gave him the nickname "Waka." It came from the sound "Wocka Wocka" that the character Fozzie Bear says in The Muppets. The name "Flocka Flame" was given to him by Gucci Mane. They have known each other since Waka Flocka was 19 years old.

Music Career Highlights

Early Success and First Album

Waka Flocka in 2010

Waka Flocka became well-known with his song "O Let's Do It" in 2009. It reached number 62 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. He was part of a music group called 1017 Brick Squad. Other members included Gucci Mane and OJ da Juiceman.

In January 2010, Malphurs was involved in an incident at a car wash in Atlanta. He was shot in his right arm. His first album, Flockaveli, was released on October 1, 2010. It quickly reached number six on the US Billboard 200 chart. The album's name was inspired by the late rapper Tupac Shakur. In 2010, MTV named him one of the "hottest MCs."

Collaborations and Second Album

Waka Flocka released several mixtapes in 2011. These included Salute Me or Shoot Me 3 and Benjamin Flocka. He also released Twin Towers 2 (No Fly Zone) with rapper Slim Dunkin.

On August 9, 2011, he released a joint album with Gucci Mane called Ferrari Boyz. The first song from this album was "She Be Puttin On." It featured Slim Dunkin, who sadly passed away later that year.

His second album, Triple F Life: Friends, Fans & Family, came out on June 8, 2012. The first song from this album was "Round of Applause." It featured Canadian rapper Drake. The song was produced by Lex Luger.

Future Music Plans

Waka Flocka Flame in 2014

In 2013, Malphurs announced his third album, Flockaveli 2. He said it would feature artists like Timbaland and Wyclef Jean. The album has had several planned release dates but has not yet been released.

He also released many mixtapes during this time. These included DuFlocka Rant 2 in 2013, which featured Lil Wayne and French Montana. Other mixtapes were Re-Up and I Can't Rap Vol. 1 in 2014.

In 2015, he released a mixtape called The Turn Up Godz Tour with DJ Whoo Kid. It included guest artists like Future and Machine Gun Kelly. He also released Salute Me Or Shoot Me 5 and Flockaveli 1.5 that year.

Public Life

In 2014, Malphurs appeared on the VH1 TV show Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. The show followed his life with his wife, Tammy Rivera.

In April 2015, Malphurs took part in a fun campaign with Rolling Stone magazine. He pretended to run for president of the United States. Even though he was too young to actually run, the campaign became very popular online. News outlets like CNN and The Washington Post reported on it.

Personal Life

Waka Flocka with his wife Tammy Rivera and her daughter Charlie

Juaquin Malphurs has a diverse background. His family has roots in African American, Native American, European (including Italian), and Dominican cultures.

On May 25, 2014, Malphurs married actress Tammy Rivera. He also became a stepfather to her child. They separated in 2022.

Malphurs is a big fan of the soccer team Atlanta United FC. He often goes to their games and supports the team.

In October 2020, Malphurs received an honorary doctorate degree. This was for his charity work and efforts to support mental health.

Views on Politics

In April 2015, Malphurs announced he was running for president. This was a playful campaign, as he was not old enough to be president. His ideas included banning dogs from restaurants. He also suggested making it illegal for people with very large shoe sizes to walk on the street. He had an anti-war stance. Former wrestler Ric Flair was his pretend running mate.

Malphurs has shared his thoughts on political and social issues. He has received an honorary professor degree for his humanitarian work. He has expressed different views on U.S. President Donald Trump over the years. In 2021, the Trump Administration gave Malphurs a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work with a non-profit group. He has supported both Democratic and Republican politicians.

Music Albums

Studio Albums

• Flockaveli (2010)
• Triple F Life: Friends, Fans & Family (2012)

Collaborative Album

• Ferrari Boyz (with Gucci Mane) (2011)

TV Appearances

Awards