Kenyatta Lee Frazier Jr. (born April 11, 2000), known professionally as Ken Carson or Ken Car$on, is an American rapper, singer, and record producer from Atlanta, Georgia. Known for his energetic, melodic style and affiliation with the Playboi Carti-led Opium label, Ken Carson has emerged as a notable figure in the modern trap and hyperpop scenes. His music blends elements of futuristic production with catchy hooks and has gained him a strong fanbase, particularly within the underground rap community.
Early Life and Career
Ken Carson was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where he developed an early interest in music. He began making music in his teenage years and was initially involved in producing beats before focusing on his rap career. Carson’s early music was influenced by the Atlanta trap scene, as well as by prominent figures like Playboi Carti, Lil Uzi Vert, and other SoundCloud rap artists. His breakthrough came after his association with Playboi Carti, who would later sign Carson to his label Opium.
Career Breakthrough
Ken Carson’s rise to fame began with the release of his 2020 EP Teen X, which garnered attention for its experimental and genre-blending sound. This project helped him establish his presence in the underground rap scene, and he quickly followed it up with multiple projects, including Boy Barbie and Lost Files. His music, marked by high-energy beats and repetitive, catchy hooks, made him a standout figure in the emerging subgenres of trap and hyperpop.
In 2021, Carson released his debut full-length album, Project X, which marked a turning point in his career. The album, featuring an eclectic mix of distorted production and digital textures, received positive attention for its boundary-pushing sound. This success was further solidified by the release of his 2022 album X, which included tracks like “Freestyle 2” and “Yale,” further cementing his style and influence.
Notable Releases
Ken Carson’s discography includes several notable albums and EPs, which have showcased his evolving style:
- A Great Chaos (2023)
- X (2022)
- Project X (2021)
- Teen X (2020) [EP]
- Lost Files (2020) [EP]
- Boy Barbie (2020) [EP]
In 2023, Carson released A Great Chaos, an album that blends elements of hyperpop, trap, and experimental rap. Tracks like “Jennifer’s Body” and “Overseas” from this album have received significant attention for their high-energy production and melodic qualities.
Musical Style and Influences
Ken Carson’s music is defined by its experimental use of digital effects, catchy melodies, and the heavy influence of SoundCloud rap. His style blends elements of trap, hyperpop, and experimental electronic music, with lyrics often revolving around themes of love, personal experiences, and the party lifestyle. Carson is known for his energetic performances and his ability to create immersive sonic environments through his unique production choices.
His collaboration with Playboi Carti has played a significant role in shaping his sound, and he is often associated with Carti’s Opium label. Carson’s music frequently features distorted vocals, catchy hooks, and minimalist production, making him a key figure in the wave of new-age, experimental rap artists.
Personal Life
Ken Carson is relatively private about his personal life, though he frequently engages with fans through social media platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. He has become a prominent figure in the internet-based music scene, maintaining a strong presence on platforms like YouTube, SoundCloud, and Spotify.
Legacy and Impact
Ken Carson has quickly become one of the leading figures in modern rap, with a rapidly growing fanbase and a reputation for pushing musical boundaries. His ability to mix hyperpop, trap, and experimental elements has allowed him to carve out a unique space in the rap scene. Carson is viewed as an influential figure within the Opium collective, alongside other notable artists like Playboi Carti and Lil Uzi Vert.
His music resonates with a young, internet-savvy audience, and he continues to experiment with his sound while maintaining a strong connection with his fans.
Discography
- A Great Chaos (2023)
- X (2022)
- Project X (2021)
- Teen X (2020) [EP]
- Lost Files (2020) [EP]
- Boy Barbie (2020) [EP]
Ken Carson’s ability to innovate and experiment within the trap and hyperpop genres has made him a standout artist of his generation. His work continues to evolve as he garners more attention and expands his influence within the broader rap and music scenes.
