Introduction to N.O.R.E.

Victor Santiago Jr., better known as N.O.R.E., is an American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur from Queens, NY. He is the co-founder of the hip hop group Capone-N-Noreaga (C-N-N), and has released six studio albums as a solo artist. He has also collaborated with several other artists, such as Pharrell Williams, Lil' Mo, Ginuwine, and Ludacris.

Early Life and Career

Santiago was born in Queens, New York on September 6th, 1977. His mother was Puerto Rican, while his father was Dominican. Santiago attended LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts before dropping out at 17 to pursue music full-time.

In 1995, Santiago formed the duo Capone-N-Noreaga (C-N-N) with fellow rapper Capone. In 1996 they released their debut album The War Report, which sold over 500,000 copies and was certified gold by the RIAA. The following year they released their second album The Reunion, which also featured guest appearances from Nas and Foxy Brown.

In 1998 Santiago began his solo career by releasing his debut album N.O.R.E., which featured guest appearances from Busta Rhymes, Nature, and Big Punisher among others. The album sold over 1 million copies and was certified platinum by the RIAA.

Later Years

In 2001 Santiago released his second album God's Favorite, which featured guest appearances from Mobb Deep and Nas among others. The album peaked at #3 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified gold by the RIAA.

In 2002 he released his third album Noreality, which featured guest appearances from Busta Rhymes and Ludacris among others. The album peaked at #14 on the Billboard 200 chart.

In 2003 he released his fourth album Melvin Flynt – Da Hustler, which featured guest appearances from Lil' Kim, Foxy Brown, and Nate Dogg among others. The album peaked at #17 on the Billboard 200 chart.

In 2004 he released his fifth album Student of the Game, which featured guest appearances from Pharrell Williams and Pusha T among others. The album peaked at #9 on the Billboard 200 chart.

In 2016 he released his sixth studio album Drunk Uncle with DJ EFN. The album was supported by three singles: “Uno Mas” featuring Wiz Khalifa and Pharrell Williams; “She Tried” featuring Ty Dolla Sign; and “What What” featuring Fat Joe.

Conclusion

Since beginning his career in 1995, N.O.R.E., born Victor Santiago Jr., has become one of the most successful rappers in the hip hop industry with six studio albums under his belt as a solo artist. He is an inspiration to many musicians due to his unique blend of rap and reggae styles that are sure to leave an impact on hip hop for years to come.