Rappers tend to go by different stage names like any other performer. But instead of picking something you can find in a baby name book, they tend to pick things a little more unique. So what are the meanings behind the rappers we’ve grown to know and love? Here are 12 meanings you probably didn’t know before.
DMX
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The name is actually an acronym for Dark Man X. But also in the early days of his career he was a human beat box and DJ so his name was in reference to the DMX digital drum machine, according to his
documentary.
Common
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The rapper and actor used to go by "Common Sense" but he was then sued by a reggae group named "Sense" and lost the case. He then started by going by Common in 1994.
Nicki Minaj
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The beauty's real name is Onika so her stage name is a play on that. Also Minaj is taken from the French word "ménage" which is part of the phrase ménage à trois.
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Ice Cube
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The rapper and actor told Fuse that his name was actually given by his brother when he was young for trying to be cool. It was actually a diss that he turned into a positive thing.
2Pac/Tupac
Paramount Pictures via Everett Collection
In an interview the rapper said, "People ask me what my name means, I don't tell 'em like 'Tupac Amaru.' But I just say it means determined because I'm determined to never ever negotiate again." Tupuc was born Lesane Parish Crooks but in 1972, his parents renamed him. Tupac Amaru was a Cuban revolutionary, but it sounds like the rap legend took the name for his own.
Eminem
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Here is another rapper who changed his name throughout his career. He used to go by M&M because his real name is Marshall Mathers. However he changed it so people wouldn't get it confused with the tasty chocolate candy.
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50 Cent
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The rapper really related to rapper Kelven "50 Cent" Darnell Martin so he took on the name once he decided to become a performer himself.
2 Chainz
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The rapper used to go as "Tity Boi" but changed his name to a certain fashion statement. Which statement exactly? Well his signature look for yearbook photos was wearing two chains.
French Montana
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He got his nickname "French" when he was young because he was able to speak the language. He then paired it with Montana from Tony Montana of Scarface.
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Meek Mill
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Here is another nickname that was useful for fame. When he was younger the rapper had a friend that called him "Meek Millions" all he had to do was shorten it and he got a stage name.
DJ Mustard
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The rapper told Fader that his real name is Dijon Isaiah McFarlane so his nickname has always been Mustard. It only makes sense to run with it once you get famous!
B.O.B
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This one is pretty much the least creative rap name ever. The stage name is just short hand for the rapper's real first name, he was born Bobby Ray Simmons Jr.