Austin Richard Post, known professionally as Post Malone, was born on July 4, 1995, in Syracuse, New York. His father, Rich Post, and stepmother, Jodie, raised him in Grapevine, Texas, after moving there when Post was nine years old. Austin Richard Post was a DJ in his youth and introduced his son to a wide variety of music genres, including hip-hop, country, and rock, influencing Post Malone’s eclectic musical style.
Early Musical Interests
From a young age, Post showed a keen interest in music. He began playing the guitar and experimenting with different genres, honing his skills and developing his unique sound. His early influences ranged from artists like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash to 50 Cent and Kanye West. This diverse exposure to music helped shape the multi-genre approach that Post Malone is known for today.
Rise to Fame
“White Iverson” Breakthrough
Post Malone’s rise to fame began with the release of his debut single, “White Iverson,” in February 2015. The song, which he wrote and produced himself, quickly went viral, amassing millions of views on YouTube and SoundCloud. “White Iverson” was a tribute to basketball player Allen Iverson and showcased Post Malone’s unique blend of hip-hop, R&B, and trap music. The success of the single caught the attention of record labels, leading to a recording contract with Republic Records.
Debut Album: “Stoney”
In December 2016, Post Malone released his debut album, “Stoney.” The album featured the hit singles “Congratulations,” featuring Quavo, and “Go Flex.” “Stoney” was a commercial success, peaking at number four on the Billboard 200 and earning multi-platinum certification. The album’s blend of hip-hop, pop, and rock elements set the stage for Post Malone’s future success.
Musical Evolution
“Beerbongs & Bentleys”
Post Malone’s second album, “Beerbongs & Bentleys,” released in April 2018, solidified his status as a leading figure in contemporary music. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and broke several streaming records. Hit singles from the album included “Rockstar” featuring 21 Savage, “Psycho” featuring Ty Dolla Sign, and “Better Now.” “Beerbongs & Bentleys” showcased Post Malone’s evolution as an artist, blending introspective lyrics with catchy melodies and diverse musical influences.
“Hollywood’s Bleeding”
In September 2019, Post Malone released his third studio album, “Hollywood’s Bleeding.” The album continued his trend of commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and featuring hit singles like “Circles,” “Sunflower” with Swae Lee, and “Goodbyes” featuring Young Thug. “Hollywood’s Bleeding” further demonstrated Post Malone’s ability to blend genres, incorporating elements of rock, hip-hop, and pop.
Personal Life and Interests
Tattoos and Style
Post Malone is well-known for his distinctive appearance, characterized by numerous tattoos covering his face, neck, and body. His tattoos often have personal significance, including tributes to musicians who have influenced him and symbols of his experiences and beliefs. Post Malone’s fashion sense is also notable, often combining elements of streetwear, rock-inspired looks, and high fashion.
Acting and Business Ventures
In addition to his music career, Post Malone has ventured into acting and business. He made his acting debut in the 2020 film “Spenser Confidential” alongside Mark Wahlberg. Post Malone has also invested in various business ventures, including a line of French rosé wine called Maison No. 9 and a collaboration with Crocs on a line of custom-designed shoes.
Impact and Legacy
Influence on Modern Music
Post Malone’s impact on modern music is significant. He has played a crucial role in blurring the lines between genres, creating a sound that appeals to a wide audience. His ability to seamlessly blend hip-hop, pop, rock, and country elements has influenced many contemporary artists and contributed to the evolution of popular music.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout his career, Post Malone has received numerous awards and nominations. He has won several American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards. His innovative approach to music and consistent commercial success have earned him recognition as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Discography
Studio Albums
- Stoney (2016)
- Key Tracks: “Congratulations,” “Go Flex,” “White Iverson”
- Beerbongs & Bentleys (2018)
- Key Tracks: “Rockstar,” “Psycho,” “Better Now”
- Hollywood’s Bleeding (2019)
- Key Tracks: “Circles,” “Sunflower,” “Goodbyes”
Collaborations and Features
Post Malone is also known for his numerous collaborations with other artists. He has worked with a diverse range of musicians across various genres, further showcasing his versatility. Some notable collaborations include:
- “Sunflower” with Swae Lee – A chart-topping hit featured on the “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” soundtrack.
- “Rockstar” with 21 Savage – A major hit that dominated the charts and became one of the defining songs of 2018.
- “Wow.” with Tyga and Roddy Ricch – A remix of his popular single that added new dimensions to the original track.
Tours and Live Performances
Touring Success
Post Malone’s live performances and tours have been highly successful, drawing large crowds and rave reviews. His energetic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences have made his concerts memorable experiences for fans. Notable tours include the “Stoney Tour” (2017), the “Beerbongs & Bentleys Tour” (2018-2019), and the “Runaway Tour” (2019-2020).
Festival Appearances
In addition to headlining his own tours, Post Malone has performed at numerous music festivals around the world. His festival appearances, including sets at Coachella, Lollapalooza, and Reading and Leeds, have further solidified his reputation as a dynamic live performer.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Charitable Work
Post Malone is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has supported various charitable causes, including donations to frontline healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and contributions to organizations focused on education and community development. His willingness to give back to the community demonstrates his commitment to using his platform for positive impact.
Advocacy
Post Malone has used his influence to advocate for issues he cares about. He has spoken out on topics such as mental health awareness, the importance of voting, and social justice. By addressing these issues, he encourages his fans to engage in meaningful conversations and take action.
Future Prospects
Upcoming Projects
As of 2024, Post Malone continues to work on new music and expand his artistic horizons. Fans eagerly anticipate his future releases and the evolution of his sound. Post Malone’s ability to innovate and adapt suggests that he will remain a prominent figure in the music industry for years to come.
Long-Term Impact
Post Malone’s influence on the music industry is undeniable. His genre-blending approach and willingness to push boundaries have set new standards for contemporary artists. As he continues to grow and evolve, his legacy will likely inspire future generations of musicians to explore new creative possibilities.
Conclusion
Austin Richard Post, better known as Post Malone, has made a significant impact on the music industry with his unique sound and genre-defying approach. From his early days of playing guitar in Texas to becoming a global superstar, Post Malone’s journey is a testament to his talent, dedication, and ability to connect with audiences worldwide. With his continued success and influence, he is poised to leave an enduring legacy in the world of music.