“Did You Know? Hidden Gems About Dreamville Festival’s 5th and Final Lineup

Source: MICKEYPIERRE-LOUIS_@ITCHYEYEPHOTOS / @DreamvilleFest / @theparallelagency

The Dreamville Festival has become a cultural phenomenon, blending hip-hop, R&B, and soul in a way that celebrates both emerging and legendary artists.

As fans gather for the festival’s 5th and final event, there’s more to these performers than just their chart-topping hits.

From unexpected career shifts to behind-the-scenes connections, each artist has a unique story that adds to their legacy.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting familiar with the lineup, here’s an inside look at some fascinating facts about the artists lighting up the Dreamville stage one last time.

Source: Julia Beverly / Getty

Lil Wayne originally went by the rap name “Shrimp Daddy” as a nod to his short stature and in homage to fellow Cash Money rapper Pimp Daddy.

The Hot Boys were originally formed in 1997 with five members: Lil Wayne, Juvenile, Turk, B.G., and Lil Derrick (aka Bulletproof). Lil Derrick left the group early on and was tragically killed in 2002.

Juvenile’s hit “Back That Azz Up” became a cultural phenomenon and is still widely recognized as one of the most iconic party anthems in hip-hop.

Mannie Fresh is not only a legendary producer but also a skilled DJ who started his career spinning records in New Orleans clubs.

Birdman, co-founder of Cash Money Records, is known for his signature hand rub gesture, which has become a meme in pop culture.  

1. J. Cole

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J. Cole graduated magna cum laude from St. John’s University, but his diploma was delayed because of an overdue library book.

2. 21 Savage

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21 Savage’s iconic dagger tattoo on his forehead is a tribute to his late brother, Quantivayus, who originally got the same tattoo.

3. Ab-Soul

Ab-Soul, a member of Top Dawg Entertainment, is known for his signature sunglasses, which he wears due to a rare condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome that makes his eyes sensitive to light.

4. Erykah Badu

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Born Erica Abi Wright, she adopted the stage name “Erykah Badu,” where “kah” refers to the ancient Egyptian concept of the soul, and “ba-du” is her favorite jazz scat sound. She went by the name “MC Apples” in her early days.

5. PARTYNEXTDOOR

PARTYNEXTDOOR was the first artist signed to Drake’s OVO Sound label, marking a significant milestone in his career.

6. 48th Annual McDonald's All-American Games With Halftime Performance From GloRilla

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GloRilla’s real name is Gloria Hallelujah Woods, and she credits her cousin for coming up with her stage name.

She originally wanted to be a singer but transitioned to rapping after losing her singing voice due to smoking.

GloRilla grew up in a large family as the eighth of ten siblings

7. Keyshia Cole

Keyshia Cole was discovered at the age of 12 by MC Hammer and later mentored by Tupac Shakur, which helped launch her music career

8. LUDACRIS

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Ludacris is a licensed private pilot and even owns his own plane, showcasing his passion for aviation

9. J.I.D

J.I.D: Before his music career took off, J.I.D earned a football scholarship to Hampton University but later left to pursue music full-time.

10. Chief Keef

Chief Keef recorded his breakout hit “I Don’t Like” while under house arrest at his grandmother’s home.

11. Ari Lennox

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Ari Lennox admitted that the first CD she ever stole was Omarion’s O album, showcasing her early love for R&B.

12. Tems

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Tems’ unique voice and style have been heavily influenced by her love for artists like Lauryn Hill and Asa.

13. Bas

Bas, a key member of J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, was born in Paris, raised in Queens, New York, and often incorporates his multicultural background into his music. J.I.D: Before his music career took off, J.I.D earned a football scholarship to Hampton University but later left to pursue music full-time.

14. Young Nudy

Young Nudy is known for his love of “weird beats” and once described his creative process as imagining himself in Gotham City with the Joker while recording his album Dr. EV4L.