MAVI – Biography, Career, Discography and Awards

Omavi Ammu Minder, known by his stage name Mavi (stylized in all caps), is an American rapper hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina. He first emerged in 2014 as a member of the North Carolina music collective KILLSWITCH. However, it was in 2019 that he gained significant recognition with the release of his debut solo album Let the Sun Talk and his guest appearance on Earl Sweatshirt’s EP Feet of Clay. 

His 2022 album, Laughing so Hard, it Hurts, received critical acclaim, earning the prestigious “Best New Music” title from Pitchfork. Mavi’s style is often likened to esteemed artists such as Vince Staples and Earl Sweatshirt, owing to his commitment to exploring the human experience with unfiltered honesty. His lyrical prowess serves as a conduit, guiding listeners into introspection and deep contemplation. Mavi’s relaxed and effortless delivery creates a distinct sense of distance, allowing his words to resonate with profound impact.

Early Life

Born on October 7, 1999, Mavi originates from Charlotte, North Carolina. Growing up in this dynamic city, he finds inspiration in his surroundings and acknowledges his parents, April Minder and Shaheed Minder, for their significant influence on his artistic journey.

His mother, April Minder, serves as an empathetic intensive care nurse, while his father, Shaheed Minder, is a computer programmer with a fervent interest in music production. Their support and guidance have been instrumental in shaping Mavi’s path in the music industry.

Mavi is immersed in his academic pursuits at Howard University, a renowned institution where he studied biology and minors in psychology. The knowledge and insights gained from his studies seep into his music, adding layers of depth and contemplation. Through his lyrics, Mavi delves into weighty topics such as race, class, and social justice, showcasing his lyrical prowess and commitment to meaningful storytelling.

Influences

Mavi’s artistic style is heavily influenced by the ideologies of the Five-Percent Nation, a theme reflected in his debut studio album titled Let the Sun Talk. He credits rappers MF Doom and Prodigy of Mobb Deep as primary inspirations, alongside a diverse range of artists such as Kendrick Lamar, J Dilla, and A Tribe Called Quest.

His music is characterized by an existential and deeply poetic writing style, delivered with a laid-back demeanor. Mavi’s preference for soul-sample heavy beats contributes to the distinctive sound of his music. His musical aesthetic often draws comparisons to frequent collaborators Earl Sweatshirt and MIKE.

Personal Life

Mavi’s father, a hip hop producer and gospel quartet singer, tragically passed away while on tour, leaving him behind as a child.

While pursuing a neuroscience major at Howard University, Mavi released his debut album Let the Sun Talk. The overwhelming interest his music received prompted him to drop out of university to focus on his burgeoning music career.

Beyond his musical endeavors, Mavi is an avid reader and draws inspiration from acclaimed writers like Toni Morrison and James Baldwin.

Though not currently married, Mavi has mentioned a past relationship; however, the details indicate that it did not last.

Career

Mavi’s journey began in 2014 when he joined forces with the esteemed North Carolina collective Kill Switch. Collaborating with notable artists such as Medhane, Navy Blue, and Elucid, he refined his skills and embarked on a path that would reshape the landscape of hip-hop. Embracing his unique style, the underground scene welcomed Mavi, and his star began to rise.

In 2019, Mavi ventured into his solo career with the release of Let the Sun Talk, a groundbreaking album that earned widespread acclaim. Featuring jazzy production and profound introspection, the album highlighted Mavi’s storytelling prowess and his exploration of the human experience. Through his lyrics, he tackled themes of identity, spirituality, and life’s complexities, inviting listeners on a journey of self-discovery.

Continuing to push artistic boundaries, Mavi released Laughing So Hard, it Hurts in 2022. This album, filled with dark humor and unfiltered vulnerability, solidified his position as a rising star in hip-hop. Mavi effortlessly weaved intricate narratives, blending irony and sincerity to captivate audiences and establish himself as a visionary wordsmith.

Beyond the studio, Mavi’s stage presence is electrifying. His performances are a mesmerizing fusion of raw emotion and profound connection, leaving audiences entranced. Sharing stages with industry heavyweights like Earl Sweatshirt, Freddie Gibbs, and Boldy James, Mavi has proven himself to be a formidable talent in the music scene.

Discography

Studio Albums

Let the Sun Talk (2019)

Laughing So Hard, it Hurts (2022)

Feet of Clay (2023)

EPs

End of the Earth (2021)

Projects

Beacon (2016)

No Roses (2017)

Singles

Mama Say (2019)

Willpower (2020)

Cold Summer (2021)

Moonfire (2022)

Ain’t No Way (2023)

Ice Cold (2023)

Collaborations

Killswitch (2017)

Killswitch Vol. 2 (2021)

Nominations and Awards

2022: Pitchfork’s Best New Music for Let the Sun Talk

2022: The New York Times Best Albums of 2022

2022: Rolling Stone’s Best Albums of 2022

2022: Stereogum’s Best Albums of 2022

2022: Consequence Best Albums of 2022

2022: Uproxx’s Best Albums of 2022

2022: NPR’s Best Albums of 2022