As we speak, we rejoice the sixtieth birthday of a real staple in hip hop tradition and media—Ray Benzino. Whether or not you keep in mind him from the early days of The Supply Journal, his notorious rap battles, or his larger-than-life appearances on actuality TV, there’s no denying Benzino has left an unforgettable mark.
Born Raymond Scott on July 18, 1965, in Boston, Benzino co-founded The Supply within the early ’90s, serving to to show it into essentially the most influential voice in hip hop journalism throughout its golden period. As co-owner and later Editor-in-Chief, Benzino was instrumental in pushing the tradition ahead—protecting the whole lot from the East Coast/West Coast beef to up-and-coming underground legends. Whether or not praised or criticized, his presence at The Supply stored hip hop journalism uncooked, actual, and rooted within the streets.
Exterior of media, Benzino carved out his personal lane within the music world. As a part of the rap group Made Males and later by solo efforts, he dropped a number of tasks that showcased his loyalty to Boston and the East Coast sound. His feud with Eminem stays one of the vital high-profile rap beefs within the style’s historical past.
In newer years, Benzino turned a well-known face on actuality TV, most notably by Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, the place his enterprise strikes and private drama stored viewers locked in. At all times outspoken and all the time genuine, Benzino introduced his no-filter character to the small display screen—cementing his repute as one of many tradition’s most unapologetic voices.
As we speak, as he turns 60, we salute Ray Benzino for his many years of contributions to hip hop journalism, music, and leisure. Love him or hate him, his identify rings bells—and that’s one thing you’ll be able to’t take away.
Blissful Born Day, Benzino!