Travis Scott: Age, Family, Biography, Life, and Career
Travis Scott, born Jacques Bermon Webster II on April 30, 1991, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for his high-energy performances and genre-bending music, Travis Scott has become one of the most influential artists in contemporary hip-hop.
Early Life and Family
Travis Scott was born in Houston, Texas. He spent much of his early life in Missouri City, a suburban area outside Houston. His mother, Wanda Webster, worked for Apple, and his father ran his own business. Music runs deep in his family; his father is a soul musician, and his grandfather was a jazz composer. This rich musical heritage significantly influenced Travis’s passion for music from a young age.
During his early childhood, he lived with his grandmother in South Park, Houston, a neighborhood known for its high crime rates. The experiences during these years had a lasting impact on his life and musical style.
Education
Travis attended Elkins High School, graduating at the age of 17. He then enrolled at the University of Texas at San Antonio but dropped out during his sophomore year to pursue his music career. This decision was met with disappointment from his parents, leading to a temporary estrangement.
Musical Beginnings
After leaving college, Travis moved to New York City to embark on his musical journey. Initially focusing on production, he formed a duo called The Graduates with his longtime friend Chris Holloway. In 2008, they released their first EP on Myspace.
In 2009, he formed another group, The Classmates, with OG Chess. They released two projects, “Buddy Rich” (2009) and “Cruis’n USA” (2010), but disbanded due to personal conflicts and financial disputes.
Facing challenges in New York, Travis relocated to Los Angeles, where he slept on friends’ couches and continued to work on his music. His dedication paid off when he caught the attention of T.I., who heard his production and invited him to work in the studio. This opportunity led to Travis’s introduction to Kanye West, marking a turning point in his career.
Rise to Fame
In 2012, Travis Scott signed his first major-label deal with Epic Records and a publishing contract with Kanye West’s GOOD Music, as part of its production wing Very G.O.O.D. Beats. This collaboration elevated his profile in the industry.
In 2013, he released his debut mixtape “Owl Pharaoh”, followed by “Days Before Rodeo” in 2014. The latter included the hit single “Don’t Play”, featuring Big Sean and The 1975, garnering significant attention and praise.
Studio Albums and Major Success
- “Rodeo” (2015): Travis’s debut studio album featured collaborations with artists like Quavo, Juicy J, and Kanye West. The single “Antidote” became his first top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying his mainstream success.
- “Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight” (2016): His second album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The collaboration “Goosebumps” with Kendrick Lamar became a fan favorite.
- “Astroworld” (2018): Named after a defunct Houston amusement park, the album received critical acclaim and featured the chart-topping single “Sicko Mode” with Drake. “Astroworld” reinforced Travis’s status as a leading figure in hip-hop.
Astroworld Festival
In 2018, Travis Scott launched the Astroworld Festival in Houston, celebrating music and arts. The festival became an annual event, attracting fans worldwide with its impressive lineup and carnival-like atmosphere.
Personal Life
Travis Scott began dating entrepreneur and media personality Kylie Jenner in April 2017. Together, they have two children:
- Stormi Webster, born on February 1, 2018
- Aire Webster, born on February 2, 2022
Their relationship has been a subject of extensive media coverage. Despite occasional reports of separation, they have maintained a close relationship centered around co-parenting their children.
Other Ventures
Beyond music, Travis has ventured into fashion and business:
- Cactus Jack Records: Founded his own record label in 2017, supporting emerging artists.
- Collaborations: Partnered with major brands like Nike for exclusive sneaker releases, McDonald’s for a signature meal, and PlayStation as a creative partner.
- Film and Television: Released a Netflix documentary “Travis Scott: Look Mom I Can Fly” in 2019, providing an intimate look at his life and career.
Awards and Recognition
- Grammy Nominations: Received multiple nominations, including for Best Rap Album and Best Rap Song.
- Billboard Music Awards: Won awards for his chart-topping hits.
- BET Hip Hop Awards: Recognized for his contributions to the genre.
- Time’s 100 Most Influential People: Featured in 2020 for his impact on music and culture.
Controversies
In November 2021, during the Astroworld Festival, a tragic crowd surge resulted in the deaths of ten attendees and injuries to many others. Travis Scott faced significant scrutiny over the event’s safety protocols and his response during the incident. He expressed deep sorrow for the victims and announced initiatives to support affected families. Legal actions and investigations followed, leading to ongoing discussions about concert safety.
Musical Style and Influence
Travis Scott’s music is characterized by:
- Genre Fusion: Blending hip-hop with psychedelic, lo-fi, and ambient elements.
- Production Techniques: Innovative use of autotune, synthesizers, and atmospheric effects.
- Artistic Influences: Inspired by artists like Kid Cudi, Kanye West, and T.I., he has developed a distinctive sound that has influenced a new generation of musicians.
Philanthropy
Travis is involved in charitable efforts:
- Cactus Jack Foundation: Aims to empower youth through education and creative resources.
- Scholarships: Partnered with HBCUs to provide scholarship opportunities.
- Community Support: Initiatives to improve parks and recreational facilities in Houston.
Legacy
At 32 years old, Travis Scott has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His innovative approach has pushed the boundaries of hip-hop, making him a pivotal figure in modern music. Through his artistry and entrepreneurial ventures, he continues to shape the cultural landscape.