Lil Chuckee is the youngest rapper signed to Lil Wayne’s Young Money Label, also one of the youngest working artists in the industry today and was discovered when he was just nine years old! Sound familiar? Many believe this young Wayne protege can very well follow in the footsteps of his predecessor and be on top for many years to come. Hailing originally from New Orleans, LA, growing up in in housing projects known as the Third Ward Calliope Projects, Chuckee and his family relocated to Atlanta after Hurricane Katrina. At age 11 Chuckee told his parents he was determined to reach his goal of reviving life and culture in his hometown, no matter what the cost and without quitting. To this day Chuckee is truly following in the footsteps of another New Orleans native, Master P, as a budding philanthropist and has done more charity work for Katrina than anyone his age. Lil Chickee has performed in over 250 shows for charity events, held back to school drives and started a charity himself called S.O.C.K. (Save Our Community Kids In New Orleans). Lil Chuckee talks with BCG on combating bullying and why giving back is important to him.
In a society riddled with so many stereotypes, misconceptions, and distorted images of what it means to be normal and accepted, today’s youth have drawn a fine line between the popular and the outcast. According to the US Secret Service, bullying was a factor in 2/3 of the 37 school shootings reviewed as well 30% of students who reported they had been bullied said they had at times brought weapons to school. What we are dealing with is an epidemic with fatal repercussions and emotional scars that lead to difficulty adapting to society on both ends. Helping combat this issue and raise awareness is YMCMB artist, Lil Chuckee, the youngest member on this highly touted roster. He introduced his “Stop the Bullying Tour” in March 2011 which coincided with the travel locations of the I Am Music Tour headlined by YMCMB CEO, Lil Wayne and First Lady, Nicki Minaj. Lil Chuckee wanted to promote Education, Empowerment, and Accountability as well as give back in a way relatable to the individuals he spoke to.
Aimed specifically at high schools and youth detention centers, Chuckee took the time to visit over 20 locations speaking on the importance of staying in school, the impact of negative decisions, standing up for what is right, and exhibiting leadership. Along this journey he was accompanied by his Manager “Big Man”,’’FU’’ aka Momanger, road manager ‘’Body’’, Money Hungry Radio and his PR Kay Harris. In addition to high schools and detention centers, he also took the cause to radio stations to further express his concern for today’s youth. A humbling experience for all involved, Chuckee was most affected not just for headlining the tour but also because he was able to witness firsthand both gruesome and heroic stories from students touched by his thoughtfulness and compassion. “Stop the Bullying Tour” was as much a promotional campaign to raise awareness as it was a learning experience. For his 16th birthday, Chuckee hosted a slew of events including a celebrity basketball game which featured: Lil Wayne, Birdman, Yo Gotti, Wocka Flocka and Lil’ Twist to name a few. The event not only raised money for the “Stop the Bullying Tour” but also breast cancer!
“Giving Back is my own choice, that I make a priority, its great for the soul and heart.”
~ Lil Chuckee
In addition to bullying Lil Chuckee hosted his 2nd Annual Back to School Suppl event through the S.O.C.K.S Organization; once again spreading the love and giving back to his community by preparing the children of New Orleans for the new school year. On August 14th, Lil Chuckee and special guests surprised many of New Orleans’ residents with live performances, free food, haircuts, school supplies and much more at Anthony Bean Theater. Attendees received backpacks filled with pencils, pens, paper, binders, rulers and more as well as PCJ Relaxers for girls. One of the event sponsors, Dave the Barber of Absolute Perfection was on hand to give free haircuts to the boys in attendance and show his support. Additional event sponsors and affiliates included Money Hungry Radio, Lady Shack of O.D.T. Promotions, music artist Mr. Tony and W.O.N Entertainment.
S.O.C.K.S Organization, a non-profit started by Chuckee following the tragic events during Hurricane Katrina, that has provided a platform for him to give back, promote positivity and immerse himself in causes outside of his fame in the music industry. In an interview Chuckee was quoted as saying “I already accomplished something big in my career which is receiving a BET award. I would love to receive a Humanitarian award because I love giving back.” And giving back he has; in addition to his Back to School giveaways, Lil Chuckee also has another proud movement, The Stop the Bullying Tour he headlines which will start back up at the end of August.
At just 16 years old, Lil Chuckee has already established a path of philanthropy and humanitarianism. Quick to put others before himself, Lil Chuckee has created a variety of avenues and outlets for him not only to express himself but to do so in positive and rewarding efforts. Chuckee tells BCG that he hopes to provide not only for the residents of New Orleans but nationwide as well. We encourage you to get involved as well whether it is in support of Lil Chuckee’s philanthropic efforts or in your own community; Change starts within. In addition to bullying Lil Chuckee hosted his 2nd Annual Back to School Supply event through the S.O.C.K.S Organization; once again spreading the love and giving back to his community by preparing the children of New Orleans for the new school year.
On August 14th, Lil Chuckee and special guests surprised many of New Orleans’ residents with live performances, free food, haircuts, school supplies and much more at Anthony Bean Theater. Attendees received backpacks filled with pencils, pens, paper, binders, rulers and more as well as PCJ Relaxers for girls. One of the event sponsors, Dave the Barber of Absolute Perfection was on hand to give free haircuts to the boys in attendance and show his support. Additional event sponsors and affiliates included Money Hungry Radio, Lady Shack of O.D.T. Promotions, music artist Mr. Tony and W.O.N Entertainment. S.O.C.K.S Organization, a non-profit started by Chuckee following the tragic events during Hurricane Katrina, that has provided a platform for him to give back, promote positivity and immerse himself in causes outside of his fame in the music industry. “I already accomplished something big in my career which is receiving a BET award.I would love to receive a Humanitarian award because I love giving back,” says Chuckee.
For more information on Lil Chuckee:
Website: www.lilchuckeeonline.com
Twitter: @lilchuckee
The Lil Chuckee Show on MoneyHungryRadio.com every Monday and Wednesday.