Royce Da 5’9”, born Ryan Daniel Montgomery on July 5, 1977, in Detroit, Michigan, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer known for his complex lyricism, raw honesty, and versatile delivery. He rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s as one of the most technically skilled and respected lyricists in hip-hop, often recognized for his collaborations with fellow Detroit rapper Eminem and his work with the hip-hop supergroup Slaughterhouse. Despite facing personal struggles and industry challenges throughout his career, Royce has consistently earned respect for his uncompromising approach to the art of lyricism and his growth as an artist.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Royce Da 5’9” grew up in Detroit, a city known for its rich musical heritage and tough environment. He was exposed to the city’s vibrant rap scene in his teenage years, and by the time he was 18, Royce had started taking his craft seriously. His rap name, Royce Da 5’9”, stems from his height (5’9”) and a previous affinity for wearing a medallion with the name Royce on it. Early in his career, Royce was heavily influenced by the likes of Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and Detroit’s burgeoning underground scene.
Royce’s breakthrough came in the late 1990s when he began working with Eminem. The two met in 1997 through mutual acquaintances and quickly developed a close friendship and creative partnership. In 1999, Royce appeared on Eminem’s debut album The Slim Shady LP in a skit titled “Bad Meets Evil,” which led to the creation of their rap duo under the same name. This collaboration helped Royce gain national attention, and he was soon signed to Columbia Records.
Solo Debut and Early Struggles
In 2002, Royce Da 5’9” released his debut album, Rock City (initially titled Rock City [Version 2.0] after Columbia Records delayed and restructured its release). Despite some critical praise, the album did not achieve commercial success due to label issues and poor promotion. However, tracks like “Boom,” produced by DJ Premier, highlighted Royce’s lyrical prowess and began cementing his reputation as a serious lyricist in the underground rap world.
Around this time, Royce’s relationship with Eminem became strained, largely due to conflicts involving management and Royce’s brief feud with D12, Eminem’s rap group. This feud resulted in a diss track exchange between Royce and D12, which soured their friendship for several years. While the tension between Royce and Eminem eventually subsided, the fallout contributed to a difficult period in Royce’s career, where label struggles and personal challenges slowed his ascent.
Bad Meets Evil and Reconciliation with Eminem
In 2011, Royce and Eminem reconciled their friendship and reignited their Bad Meets Evil collaboration. The duo released an EP titled Hell: The Sequel, which was a commercial success, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The project featured hit singles like “Lighters” (featuring Bruno Mars) and “Fast Lane.” The album showcased both rappers’ immense technical skill and brought Royce back into the mainstream spotlight.
This reunion with Eminem also led to new opportunities for Royce and helped rekindle interest in his solo career. It marked a turning point for Royce, as he began focusing on more personal and introspective content in his music, reflecting his growth as both an artist and a person.
Slaughterhouse and Shady Records
In 2008, Royce teamed up with Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden, and Crooked I to form the rap supergroup Slaughterhouse. The group quickly gained a cult following for their raw, unfiltered approach to lyricism, with each member bringing a different regional style and perspective to the group. Slaughterhouse’s self-titled debut album was released independently in 2009 to critical acclaim.
In 2011, Slaughterhouse signed with Eminem’s Shady Records and released their second album, Welcome to: Our House (2012), which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard 200. While the album received a mixed critical reception due to its more commercial sound, it further solidified the group’s standing in hip-hop. Royce’s involvement with Slaughterhouse provided him with a platform to continue pushing his lyrical abilities while reaching a wider audience.
Sobriety and Personal Transformation
One of the most significant moments in Royce’s life came in 2012 when he decided to get sober. After years of struggling with alcohol addiction, Royce committed to a healthier lifestyle, and this decision had a profound impact on his music. His sobriety allowed him to reflect deeply on his life and career, and his later albums became more introspective, often exploring themes of personal growth, mental health, and accountability.
Royce’s 2016 album Layers marked the beginning of this new phase in his career. The album was deeply personal, with Royce addressing his struggles with addiction, relationships, and the music industry. Layers received critical acclaim, praised for its honesty and maturity. The album’s title track, along with songs like “Tabernacle,” displayed a more vulnerable side of Royce, showing his ability to blend technical skill with heartfelt storytelling.
The Book of Ryan and The Allegory
In 2018, Royce released The Book of Ryan, widely regarded as his magnum opus. The album was a deeply autobiographical exploration of his upbringing, family life, and the trauma he experienced throughout his life. Tracks like “Cocaine,” which details his father’s struggle with addiction, and “Boblo Boat,” featuring J. Cole, paint a vivid picture of his journey. The Book of Ryan was celebrated for its emotional depth, lyrical sophistication, and Royce’s willingness to confront his past.
In 2020, Royce followed up with The Allegory, which was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. The Allegory was a more politically charged project, addressing issues like systemic racism, economic inequality, and the impact of media manipulation. Royce also took on production duties for much of the album, showcasing his talents as a producer in addition to his skills as a rapper.
Legacy and Influence
Royce Da 5’9” is considered one of the most respected lyricists in hip-hop. Throughout his career, he has earned a reputation for his intricate wordplay, clever punchlines, and relentless commitment to lyrical excellence. Despite facing numerous challenges, including addiction and industry setbacks, Royce has consistently evolved as an artist, using his personal experiences as fuel for his art.
His work with Eminem, Slaughterhouse, and his solo projects has solidified his place as one of hip-hop’s most enduring and influential figures. As he continues to release music and mentor younger artists, Royce remains a vital voice in the genre, constantly pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved through lyricism and storytelling.
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