Marece Benjamin Richards[1] (born September 2, 1983),[2] better known by his stage name Rich Boy, is an American rapper from Mobile, Alabama. He is best known for his 2006 hit single "Throw Some D's" (featuring Polow da Don), which peaked at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. It served as the lead single for his eponymous debut album, which was released in March of the following year through Polow da Don's Zone 4, an imprint Interscope Records.
The album was commercially successful, peaking at number three on the Billboard 200, although critical reception was mixed to average. His 2009 follow-up single, "Drop" (featuring Polow da Don) became popular through remixes and freestyles by then-upcoming Internet rappers, including Childish Gambino, Kid Cudi, and Earl Sweatshirt. His subsequent releases failed to reach any further commercial response.
Early life and education
Richards is from Alabama.[3] He was studying mechanical engineering at Tuskegee University, but he dropped out to concentrate on pursuing a rap career.
Rich Boy's second album was intended in 2010 to be titled Resurrected in Diamonds and was slated for a 2013 release.[6] The intended first single released off the album was "Drop" which had been released in the beginning of early 2009. Another track "She Luvs Me (She Luvs Mi Knot)" featuring Polow da Don was released on June 21, 2010. Both Dr. Dre and Polow da Don were confirmed contributors or producers for the album.[6]
On March 18, 2013, Rich Boy released the mixtape Back to Class in promotion of his second studio album, Break the Pot.[7] On January 14, 2013, the title track was released as a single in promotion of the album, featuring Hemi.[8] On February 25, 2013, it was announced that Break the Pot would be released on April 9, 2013, and would feature guest appearances from Maino, Mista Raja, Bobby V, Doe B, Playboi Lo and Smash.[9] On March 17, the music video for "Break the Pot" premiered on MTV Jams.[10]Break the Pot was released on April 9, 2013, and included the single "Pimp On", which featured Doe B, Playboi Lo and Smash.[11][12]
