Booba, whose real name is Élie Yaffa, is a French rapper and one of the most influential figures in the French hip-hop scene. 

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Booba was born on December 9, 1976, in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris, France. He is of Senegalese descent, and his multicultural background has had a significant impact on his music.

Beginnings with Lunatic: Booba's rap career began in the mid-1990s as a member of the rap duo Lunatic, alongside Ali. They gained popularity in the underground rap scene with their raw and gritty lyrics, which often depicted life in the tough neighborhoods of France.

 

After Lunatic disbanded in 2003, Booba pursued a solo career and signed with the independent record label Tallac Records. He released his debut solo album, "Temps Mort," in 2002, which was well-received by both fans and critics and helped establish him as a prominent figure in French hip-hop.

Booba's subsequent albums, such as "Panthéon," "Ouest Side," and "0.9," achieved commercial success, solidifying his position as one of the best-selling French hip-hop artists of all time. His music often blends hard-hitting rap with melodic hooks, drawing a diverse audience.

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His impact on French rap is immense. He is credited with popularizing a new style of rap, known as "Autotune rap," which incorporates the use of vocal processing effects. This style has influenced numerous younger artists in the French hip-hop scene.

 

He is not only a successful rapper but also a savvy businessman. He has ventured into various business endeavors, including launching his own clothing line, "Ünkut," and investing in the French urban media company "OKLM."

Booba's albums consistently topped the French charts, and he maintained a loyal fanbase throughout his career. His music videos garnered millions of views on platforms like YouTube, and he remains one of the most-streamed French artists globally.

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On the 3rd September 2022, Booba performed at the Stade of France. The show of his career with 3 hours of performance and his family side along. French media mentioned that he crowned himself that night.​