How to Hire FABOLOUS For Your Event!
The Brooklyn Wordsmith
aka: John David Jackson, SportLoso
Born in: New York
Based in: New Jersey
Based in: Englewood
Hire: Fabolous
John David Jackson, known professionally as Fabolous, was born on November 18, 1977, in Brooklyn, New York City. He is of Dominican and African-American descent and was raised in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood. Growing up in a culturally rich and often tough urban environment, Fabolous was influenced by East Coast hip-hop legends and developed a love for lyrical wordplay early on.
He attended High School of Art and Design in Manhattan and later City-As-School High School in New York, where he began honing his rap skills more seriously.
Hire Fabolous for your festival or concert plans! (t,s)
Breakthrough into Hip-Hop (1998–2001)
Fabolous first gained attention in the late 1990s, thanks to a chance opportunity when he rapped live on DJ Clue’s radio show on Hot 97. Clue was impressed and signed him to Desert Storm Records. His feature on various mixtapes built his underground credibility.
In 2001, Fabolous released his debut album, “Ghetto Fabolous“, which debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200 and featured hit singles like: “Can’t Deny It” (featuring Nate Dogg) and “Young’n (Holla Back)”.
The album’s mix of street-savvy lyrics and club-friendly beats made him an immediate standout.
Mainstream Success and Continued Releases (2003–2007)
Fabolous followed up with several successful albums:
Street Dreams (2003)
Featured hits like “Into You” (with Tamia or Ashanti) and “Trade It All Pt. 2”; It Certified Platinum, further solidifying his mainstream appeal
Real Talk (2004)
Spawned popular singles like “Breathe”, a gritty track that remains one of his most acclaimed songs
In 2006, he signed with Def Jam Recordings and launched his own label, Street Family Records.
From Nothin’ to Somethin’ (2007)
- Debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200
- Included features from Ne-Yo, T-Pain, and Rihanna
- Certified Gold by the RIAA
The Maturation of a Lyricist (2009–2014)
Fabolous‘ 2009 album, “Loso’s Way“, marked a stylistic shift toward more personal and cinematic themes. It debuted at #1 and was accompanied by a short film. Notable tracks include “Throw It in the Bag” (featuring The-Dream) and “My Time” (featuring Jeremih).
He also began releasing his now legendary “There Is No Competition” and “The Soul Tape” mixtape series, showcasing a deeper, sharper lyrical side that earned respect from hardcore hip-hop fans and critics alike.
Later Career and Collaborative Projects (2015–2020)
- The Young OG Project (2014)
Released on Christmas Day, this digital-only album blended 90s nostalgia with modern production. Songs like “She Wildin’” (with Chris Brown) paid tribute to 90s culture. - Friday on Elm Street (2017)
A collaboration with Jadakiss, the horror-themed project was well received for its punchline-heavy lyricism and East Coast grit.
Personal Life and Legal Issues
Fabolous has long been in an on-and-off relationship with stylist and reality TV personality Emily Bustamante (Emily B), with whom he has children.
Despite personal challenges, Fabolous has continued to maintain relevance in the music industry, often contributing features and freestyles that go viral online.
Legacy and Influence
Fabolous is widely respected for his:
- Consistent lyricism
- Longevity in hip-hop (over 20 years active)
- Ability to balance street credibility with mainstream appeal
- Clever use of punchlines, metaphors, and fashion-forward image
He’s often cited as one of the most underrated lyricists in hip-hop and a mixtape legend.
How do I book Fabolous? See below.
Hire Fabolous for your party or event!
Learn booking fee and availability.
How much does it cost to book Fabolous? See below.
Fabolous may be available for your next special event!
What is the Fabolous booking fee? See below.
Book Fabolous, now!
For other great suggestions for booking music acts, look here.
Check Fabolous tour dates:
Watch Fabolous Videos:
Listen to Fabolous:
- Hire Fabolous. -