Ilacoin
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Bronx, New York City, United States
Ilacoin | |
|---|---|
| Born | July 15, 1973 Bronx, New York City, United States |
| Origin | Harlem, New York |
| Genres | Hip Hop, R&B |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, Executive Producer, Songwriter, Emcee, Artist |
| Labels | Gee Street, Island Records, Game Recordings, Rawkus, Fat Beats, Triple Bars |
Christian J. A. Faloye (born July 15, 1973), known by his stage names Ilacoin (or simply COIN), is an American Songwriter, EMCEE, Rapper and Producer.
He is the grandson of Yoruba royalty, the child of Nigerian immigrants, but raised mostly by a single American mother. His father, before he was 1 would move him around all of New York to Delaware to New Jersey back to Harlem, where he finally became settled at age 9, living across the street from Tupac Shakur and family. There in Harlem with the absence of a father, a latchkey child, he would begin to become familiar with the local gang and street life. His cousin Fatima Faloye of New York Undercover fame, who he refers to as his sister would be instrumental in "keeping" him out of the streets, eventually introducing him to Ahmed Obafemi and wife, Sonoviah (parents to Tchaka Zulu of DTP/Ebony Son) who would become his "godparents" and introduce him to Islam for the first time in his life. Ilacoin became a respected talent from Harlem in the Hip Hop culture.
Early career
Serving originally as a Hip Hop dancer, he frequented the New York City night life since the age of 14, socializing with the likes of Doug E. Fresh, Puff Daddy (Diddy), Mike Tyson, Red Alert, and others. Supported by Rev. Mariah Britton and the Riverside Church Afterschool program he honed his skills as a leader and choreographer scoring 1st place at The Apollo Amateur night. He began rapping soon after, opening up for Poor Righteous Teachers, Brand Nubian, Nice and Smooth, Main Source and Leaders of The New School. He earned his name in the streets as an MC battling on the streets and in project hallways.
