Rich Chigga

Equal parts novelty and natural ability, Indonesian rapper and Internet personality Rich Chigga (born Brian Imanuel) captured mainstream attention in 2016 with his viral hit “Dat $tick.” The track caught international eyes and ears after a reaction video was released to promote the song; it featured American rappers like Ghostface Killah, 21 Savage, Flatbush Zombies, and Desiigner, who reacted with mostly positive praise. Ironically wearing a pink polo and a fanny pack, Imanuel let his deep voice and cadence speak for itself, challenging preconceived notions about how Asian rappers could sound. Soon after, Imanuel signed with CXSHXNLY — home to fellow Asian artists like Dumbfoundead and Keith Ape — and continued to build his rap career. He was just 17 at the time. Growing up in Indonesia, Imanuel got his start with social media in 2010 when he was 11 years old. At first, he posted dark comedy videos that often lampooned American culture, which he consumed via online videos. He taught himself English by watching such clips and by listening to rappers like Childish Gambino, 2 Chainz, Macklemore, and Tyler, the Creator. In 2015, Imanuel began releasing satirical songs as Rich Chigga. The first, “Living the Dream,” introduced his brand as a button-pushing, controversy-courting, yet ironic presence. He produced culturally appropriated content about gang violence, drinking, and drugs — though he didn’t partake in any of it — while also voicing prominent problems concerning his home country, like government corruption and street violence. After the success of “Dat $tick,” he released “Who That Be” and a “Dat $tick” remix, which featured Pouya and Ghostface Killah on guest verses. ~ Neil Z. Yeung, Rovi