Bio Full Biography »

Philadelphian rapper Beanie Sigel had a rapidly rising career, beginning with his appearance on one of underground rapper/producer DJ Clue?'s mixtapes, to his cameos on Jay-Z's Vol. 2: Hard Knock Life, to a consequent solo deal with Roc-a-Fella Records. His distinctive, slightly drawling delivery and his clever but hard-hitting rhymes were showcased on his debut album, 2000's The Truth, which featured contributions from Jay-Z, Memphis Bleek, Eve, and Scarface, and production by the Ruff Ryders' Swizz Beatz and Suave House's Tony Draper. His second album, The Reason, hit the streets in summer 2001, led by the single "Beanie (Mack B****)." Sigel soon launched his State Property line of clothing by announcing his gear would have hidden pockets and gun holsters. Legal problems plagued the rapper in 2003 when he was arrested on federal weapon and drug charges stemming from a police chase where Sigel allegedly tossed a loaded handgun. He was arrested again in September the same year on attem...