About
Richard Andrew Thorburn (born January 10, 1974), better known by his stage name R.A. the Rugged Man, is an American underground hip-hop artist from Suffolk County, Long Island, New York. In 1992, at the age of 18, Thorburn signed with Jive Records, then in the mid-1990s signed with Priority Records/EMI. His contract was later absorbed by Capitol Records but he began recording independently in the early 2000s. He has worked with MC's such as The Notorious B. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- underground hip hop
- east coast hip hop
- hardcore hip hop
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did R.A. the Rugged Man start rapping?
- R.A. the Rugged Man began rapping professionally in the early 1990s, quickly making a name for himself within the underground hip-hop scene. Born Richard Andrew Thorburn, he grew up in Suffolk County, Long Island, New York, where he started writing rhymes as a teenager. His career formally took off when he signed his first major record deal with Jive Records in the 1990s, although industry politics delayed his debut album for years. Despite early setbacks, R.A. continued to hone his craft and became widely respected for his complex lyricism, rapid-fire delivery, and gritty storytelling. With over three decades in the game, R.A. the Rugged Man is known as one of the most skilled lyricists in hip-hop, collaborating with legends and consistently releasing acclaimed projects that showcase his technical prowess and passionate approach to hip-hop culture. His early start and perseverance have secured his legacy as an influential figure in the genre.
- What is the hardest rap song ever?
- Determining the "hardest" rap song ever is subjective, as it depends on personal taste and criteria such as lyricism, intensity, and impact. However, many hip-hop fans and critics frequently cite songs like "Shook Ones Pt. II"
- Who is the rap artist RA?
- The rap artist known as R.A. is R.A. the Rugged Man, a highly respected figure in the hip-hop community celebrated for his complex lyricism and unapologetic style. Born Richard Andrew Thorburn in Long Island, New York, he launched his career in the early 1990s and quickly earned a reputation for his technical skills and raw storytelling. R.A. the Rugged Man has released several acclaimed albums, including "Die, Rugged Man, Die,"
- What is the aggressive rap genre called?
- The aggressive rap genre is commonly known as "hardcore hip-hop."
- What nationality is R.A. the Rugged Man?
- R.A. the Rugged Man is an American rapper, born and raised in Long Island, New York. His nationality is American, and he is of German and Sicilian descent. Throughout his career, R.A. has been celebrated for blending his multicultural heritage with the urban experiences that shaped his upbringing in New York's hip-hop scene. His background contributes to the unique perspective and diverse influences present in his music. As an influential figure in the American hip-hop community, R.A. the Rugged Man's nationality and heritage have played a role in his storytelling and lyrical themes, making him a distinctive voice in the genre. His ability to connect with audiences both in the United States and internationally underscores his universal appeal and the broad resonance of his artistry within hip-hop culture.