Wikipedia - Benutzerbeiträge [de]

Starset

2015-09-12T04:16:42Z

Jacedc: + musical style and influences

{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Starset
| background = group_or_band
| origin = [[Columbus, Ohio|Columbus]], [[Ohio]], United States
| years_active=2013-present
| label=[[Razor & Tie]]
| genre = [[Alternative metal]], [[electronic rock]], [[symphonic rock]], [[space rock]],
| associated_acts = [[Downplay]], [[Fearless Vampire Killers (band)|Fearless Vampire Killers]], [[In This Moment]]
| website = http://www.starsetonline.com

| current_members=Dustin Bates Ron DeChant Brock Richards Adam Gilbert

}}

''' Starset '''is an American [[alternative rock|cinematic rock]] band from [[Columbus, Ohio]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.altpress.com/news/entry/starset_sign_to_razor_tie|title=Starset sign to Razor & Tie|work=Alternative Press|accessdate=16 October 2014}}</ref> Formed by Dustin Bates in 2013,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.revolvermag.com/news/starset-premiere-video-trailer-for-new-album-transmissions.html|title=Starset Premiere Video Trailer for New Album, Transmissions|publisher=|accessdate=16 October 2014}}</ref> they released their debut album ''[[Transmissions (Starset album)|Transmissions]]'' the following year.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/5883713/starset/biography|title=Starset|work=[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]] |accessdate=December 12, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thefrontrowreport.com/starset-transmissions-review/|title=Starset: Transmissions review|work=The Front Row Report|accessdate=16 October 2014}}</ref><ref name="Palmer Dead Press">{{cite web|url=http://www.deadpress.co.uk/40912/album-starset-transmissions |title=Album: Starset – Transmissions |work=Dead Press! - Alternative music news, reviews, interviews and more! |first=Josh |last=Palmer |date=July 8, 2014 |publisher=|accessdate=December 12, 2014}}</ref>

== History ==

=== Formation and ''Transmissions'' (2013-present) ===

Starset was formed by [[Downplay]] vocalist Dustin Bates in 2013 and he takes the roles of lead singer and songwriter whilst also playing the keyboard.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://propertyofzack.com/post/94389733991/poz-showcase-starset/|title=POZ Showcase: Starset — PropertyOfZack|accessdate=August 10, 2014}}</ref> Bates' interest in Space was first fueled when acquiring his [[PhD]] in electrical engineering as he studied at Ohio University. He also has completed research for the U.S. Air Force and taught at the International Space University.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.isolmusic.com/download.php?filename=starset%2FAsset+Downloads%2FBiography+band+-+Starset+-+2014.pdf|title= Starset band biography}}</ref>

The band released their debut album Transmissions on July 8, 2014 in digital and physical format.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.razorandtie.com/starset-to-release-new-album-transmissions-on-july-8th/|title=STARSET TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM TRANSMISSIONS ON JULY 8th : Razor & Tie Direct L.L.C.|accessdate= June 3, 2014}}</ref> Starset is part of the group, The Starset Society, who are meant to help develop on the scientific and political themes of Transmissions. The music on ''Transmissions'' has been compared to the style of [[Linkin Park]], [[Breaking Benjamin]], [[Skillet (band)|Skillet]], [[Thirty Seconds to Mars]], [[Three Days Grace]] and [[Red (band)|Red]].<ref name="Palmer Dead Press"/><ref>{{cite journal |title=Soundcheck |first=Thomas |last=Vogel |first2=Torsten |last2=Schäfer |first3=Thomas |last3=Abresche |first4=Jörn |last4=Karstedt |first5=Peter |last5=Heymann |first6=Kai |last6=Reinbold |first7=Thomas |last7=Pilgrim |first8=Kym |last8=Gnuch |first9=Erik |last9=Rössler |author10=Medusa |journal=[[Sonic Seducer]] |page=75 |language=German |year=2015 |issue=1 |volume=22}}</ref>

==Musical style==
Starset's musical style is described by ''[[Erie Times-News]]''<nowiki/>' Dave Richards as "blend[ing] the progressive aspirations of Muse with the openhearted approach of emo and muscular power of bands like Breaking Benjamin."<ref name="Richards">{{cite web |last=Richards |first=Dave |date=September 10, 2015 |url=http://www.goerie.com/cinematic-band-starset-opens-for-breaking-benjamin |title=Cinematic band Starset opens for Breaking Benjamin |website=[[Erie Times-News]] |publisher=Ken Nelson |access-date=September 11, 2015 }}</ref> Their style is described by Bates himself as "blending symphonics with electronics with riff-driven, baritone guitar hard rock."<ref name="Richards"/> Influences of Starset include [[Hans Zimmer]], [[Nine Inch Nails]], [[Sigur Ros]], Thirty Seconds to Mars, [[Deftones]] and Breaking Benjamin.<ref name="Richards"/>

== Discography ==

=== Studio albums ===
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! rowspan="2"| Title
! rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Label
! colspan="5"| Chart Positions
|-
! style="width:86px;"| [[Billboard 200|Top 200]]<ref name = allmusic1>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/starset-mn0003210853/awards|title=Starset - Awards - AllMusic|author=Mark Deming|work=AllMusic|accessdate=16 October 2014}}</ref>
! style="width:86px;"| [[Billboard charts|US Hard Rock]]<ref name = allmusic1/>
! style="width:86px;"| [[Top Rock Albums|US Rock]]<ref name = allmusic1/>
! style="width:86px;"| [[Top Modern Rock/Alternative Albums|US Alternative]]<ref name = allmusic1/>
! style="width:86px;"| [[Top Digital Albums|US Digital]]<ref name = allmusic1/>
|-
| '' [[Transmissions (Starset album)|Transmissions]] ''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/life_and_entertainment/2014/07/26/band-name-bears-vague-scientific-message.html|title=Starset: Band name bears vague scientific message|author=Jim Ryan|work=The Columbus Dispatch|accessdate=29 October 2014}}</ref>
| 2014
| rowspan="1"| [[Razor & Tie]]
| style="text-align:center;"| 49
| style="text-align:center;"| 5
| style="text-align:center;"| 16
| style="text-align:center;"| 12
| style="text-align:center;"| 24
|}

=== Singles ===
{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" style="text-align:center;"
|-
! scope="col" rowspan="2" style="width:18em;" | Title
! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Year
! scope="col" rowspan="2" | Album
! scope="col" colspan="2" | Peak chart positions
|-
! scope="col" style="width:4em;font-size:90%;" | [[Mainstream Rock (chart)|Mainstream Rock Songs]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.billboard.com/artist/5883713/starset/chart?f=376|title=Starset|publisher=Billboard.com|accessdate=22 November 2014}}</ref>
! scope="col" style="width:3em;font-size:90%;" | [[Rock Songs (chart)|Rock Songs]] <ref name = allmusic1/>
|-
! scope="row" | "[[My Demons (song)|My Demons]]"
| 2013
| rowspan="3" | '' Transmissions''
| 5
| 36
|-
! scope="row" | "Carnivore"
| 2014
| 16
| —
|-
! scope="row" | "Halo"
| 2015
| 18
| —
|}

== Band members ==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}

* Dustin Bates - Lead Vocals / Keyboard
* Ron DeChant - Bass / Keyboard / Backing Vocals
* Brock Richards - Guitar / Backing Vocals
* Adam Gilbert - Drums

== References ==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Rock music groups from Ohio]]

{{US-rock-band-stub}}

Chief Keef

2015-07-27T20:30:09Z

Jacedc: adding {{Good article}}

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Life and career==
===Early life===
Chief Keef was born Keith Cozart in Chicago, Illinois when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.{{sfn|Celeb|2012}} He grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood in the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].{{sfn|Austen|2013}} Keef is estranged from his biological father;{{sfn|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}} when he was a minor, Keef's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} Keef dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Gibbs|2014}}

===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.{{sfn|Jeffries|n.d.}} In December, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} While under house arrest, Keef posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}}{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Kramer|2012}} Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme2012}} Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].{{sfn|Lipshutz|2012}} In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."{{sfn|Drake|2012c}}

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him, including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].{{sfn|Miles|2013}} While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).{{sfn|Miles|2013}} The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013a}} Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.{{sfn|Horowitz|2012b}} Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].{{sfn|B.|2012}}

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.{{sfn|Fletcher|2013}} On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].{{sfn|Diep|2013}}

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.{{sfn|''Yeezus''|2013}} Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."{{sfn|Reed|2013}}

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.{{sfn|Russell|2013}} ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.{{sfn|X|2013}} Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}}{{sfn|Aceto|2013}} Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[#Legal issues|§ Legal issues]]), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}}

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} In January, Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.{{sfn|Lilah|2014a}} In February, Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.{{sfn|Smith|2014a}} During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.{{sfn|V|2014}} Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.{{sfn|Smith|2014b}} The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.{{sfn|C.M.|2014a}} In March, Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|iTunes|2014}} On March 14, Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".{{sfn|Ortiz|2014}} Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.{{sfn|J.|2014}}

In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.{{sfn|Williams|2014}} [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Keef.{{sfn|Smith|2014c}} Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.{{sfn|Aceto|2015}} Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}} However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],{{sfn|Tardio|2014}}{{sfn|Lilah|2014b}} as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.{{sfn|Carter|2014a}} Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it's tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}} ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."{{sfn|Drake|2014b}} In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} The album was set to be released on December 2,{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} but was ultimately released on December 16.{{sfn|Carter|2014b}} The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,{{sfn|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}} with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."{{sfn|Coplan|2014}} Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}}

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.{{sfn|Keef|2015}} Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."{{sfn|Pearson|2015}} The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}}{{sfn|Muller|2015}} In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.{{sfn|Drake|2015}}{{sfn|Galil|2015}} On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.{{sfn|Goddard|2015}}

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.{{sfn|Blidner|2015}} Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].{{sfn|Iasimone|2015}} Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.{{sfn|O'Connell|2015}}

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.{{sfn|Michaels|2013}} Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].{{sfn|Josephs|2012}}{{sfn|Capper|2013}}{{sfn|Caldwell|2014}} The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.{{sfn|Meara|2014}}{{sfn|James|2014}} Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.{{sfn|Vlad|2014}}

==Personal life==
At the age of 16, Keef had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} Keef was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.{{sfn|Bossip Staff|2012}} In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.{{sfn|Muhammad|2013}} In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.{{sfn|T|2014}} In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Keef, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.{{sfn|Drake|2013}} Keef's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Konkol|2013a}} Another of Keef's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|Koplowitz|2014}} Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.{{sfn|Diep|2014}}{{sfn|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}}

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Keef was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}} As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}}

In December 2011, Keef left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Keef, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Keef was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.{{sfn|Phillips|2013}}

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Keef was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".{{sfn|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}} This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,{{sfn|Horowitz|2012a}} which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.{{sfn|Kuperstein|2012}} Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012b}}

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Keef to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.{{sfn|Ryon|2013a}} The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.{{sfn|Ryon|2012b}} On December 31, 2012, Keef was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Main|2012}} Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."{{sfn|Meisner|2013}}

On January 15, 2013, Keef was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Keef was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.{{sfn|Main|2013a}} On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013b}}

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.{{sfn|Ryon|2013b}} He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.{{sfn|Rys|2013}}

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.{{sfn|Monde|2013}} He was released later in the day.{{sfn|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}} Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.{{sfn|Ryon|2013c}} He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.{{sfn|Main|2013b}}

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}} On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.{{sfn|Kramer|2013}} However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.{{sfn|Jackson, R.|2013}} Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.{{sfn|C.M.|2014b}}

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Keef to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Keef with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Keef's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.{{sfn|Hailey|2014}}

In June 2014, Keef was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}} Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Keef is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}{{sfn|Hudson|2014}} The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.{{sfn|Seth|2013}} ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}}
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."{{sfn|Mansell|2014}} Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}}{{sfn|Chandler|2012}}

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Keef's image and message, describing the rapper as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}} Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.{{sfn|Guarino|2012}}

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.{{sfn|Chandler|2012}} A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,{{sfn|Keef|2012a}} but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.{{sfn|Keef|2012b}} On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012a}}

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.{{sfn|Servantes|2014}} Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].{{sfn|Jenkins|2014}} Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.{{sfn|Steinfeld|2014}}

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Keef uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].{{sfn|Abernethy|2012}} Keef shortly removed the image from his account.{{sfn|XXL Staff|2012}} However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].{{sfn|Rogulewski|2012}} Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.{{sfn|Carter|2015}}{{sfn|Downs|2014}}

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|20em}}

===Notes===
{{refbegin|30em}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Abernethy|2012}}|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2013}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2015}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Austen|2013}}|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|B.|2012}}|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Blidner|2015}}|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Bossip Staff|2012}}|author=Bossip Staff|url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Buyanovsky|2013}}|last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014a}}|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014b}}|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caldwell|2014}}|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Capper|2013}}|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caramanica|2012}}|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014a}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014b}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2015}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media |ref={{SfnRef|Celeb|2012}}|last=Celeb|first=Jr|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Chandler|2012}}|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Coplan|2014}}|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Delerme|2012}}|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2013}}|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2014}}|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Downs|2014}}|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012c}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2013}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2015}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Fletcher|2013}}|last=Fletcher|first=James "Fletch"|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Galil|2015}}|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2014}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2015}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Gibbs|2014}}|last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goddard|2015}}|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}}|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Guarino|2012}}|last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hailey2014}}|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Haithcoat|2014}}|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012a}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012b}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013a}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013b}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hudson|2014}}|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Iasimone|2015}}|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|iTunes|2014}}|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|J.|2014}}|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, D.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, R.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|James|2014}}|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jeffries|n.d.}}|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jenkins|2014}}|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Josephs|2012}}|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012a}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012b}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2015}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013a}}|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013b}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013c}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}}|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Koplowitz|2014}}|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2012}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2013}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kuperstein|2012}}|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014a}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014b}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lipshutz|2012}}|last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}}|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lyons|2014}}|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2012}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013a}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013b}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Mansell|2014}}|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Meara|2014}}|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Meisner|2013}}|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Michaels|2013}}|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Middleton|2015}}|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Miles|2013}}|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Monde|2013}}|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012a}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012b}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2013}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2015}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muller|2015}}|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|O'Connell|2015}}|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ortiz|2014}}|last=Ortiz|first=Edwin|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Pearson|2015}}|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
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*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}}|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Reed|2013}}|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rogulewski|2012}}|last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Russell|2013}}|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012b}}|last = Ryon|first = Sean|title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/|publisher =''HipHopDX''|date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
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*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013b}}|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013c}}|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 28, 2013|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rys|2013}}|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Servantes|2014}}|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Seth|2013}}|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Shapiro|2012}}|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|date=2012|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Simpson|2014}}|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014a}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014b}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014c}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Stehlik|2012}}|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Steinfeld|2014}}|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|T|2014}}|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Tardio|2014}}|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|V|2014}}|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
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*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Williams|2014}}|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|X|2013}}|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|XXL Staff|2012}}|author=XXL Staff|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media notes|ref={{SfnRef|''Yeezus''|2013}}|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
{{refend}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Good article}}
{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-27T20:22:31Z

Jacedc: moving early life info from Personal life to Early life

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Life and career==
===Early life===
Chief Keef was born Keith Cozart in Chicago, Illinois when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.{{sfn|Celeb|2012}} He grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood in the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].{{sfn|Austen|2013}} Keef is estranged from his biological father;{{sfn|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}} when he was a minor, Keef's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} Keef dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Gibbs|2014}}

===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.{{sfn|Jeffries|n.d.}} In December, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} While under house arrest, Keef posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}}{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Kramer|2012}} Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme2012}} Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].{{sfn|Lipshutz|2012}} In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."{{sfn|Drake|2012c}}

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him, including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].{{sfn|Miles|2013}} While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).{{sfn|Miles|2013}} The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013a}} Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.{{sfn|Horowitz|2012b}} Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].{{sfn|B.|2012}}

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.{{sfn|Fletcher|2013}} On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].{{sfn|Diep|2013}}

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.{{sfn|''Yeezus''|2013}} Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."{{sfn|Reed|2013}}

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.{{sfn|Russell|2013}} ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.{{sfn|X|2013}} Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}}{{sfn|Aceto|2013}} Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[#Legal issues|§ Legal issues]]), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}}

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} In January, Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.{{sfn|Lilah|2014a}} In February, Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.{{sfn|Smith|2014a}} During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.{{sfn|V|2014}} Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.{{sfn|Smith|2014b}} The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.{{sfn|C.M.|2014a}} In March, Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|iTunes|2014}} On March 14, Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".{{sfn|Ortiz|2014}} Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.{{sfn|J.|2014}}

In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.{{sfn|Williams|2014}} [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Keef.{{sfn|Smith|2014c}} Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.{{sfn|Aceto|2015}} Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}} However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],{{sfn|Tardio|2014}}{{sfn|Lilah|2014b}} as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.{{sfn|Carter|2014a}} Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it's tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}} ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."{{sfn|Drake|2014b}} In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} The album was set to be released on December 2,{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} but was ultimately released on December 16.{{sfn|Carter|2014b}} The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,{{sfn|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}} with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."{{sfn|Coplan|2014}} Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}}

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.{{sfn|Keef|2015}} Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."{{sfn|Pearson|2015}} The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}}{{sfn|Muller|2015}} In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.{{sfn|Drake|2015}}{{sfn|Galil|2015}} On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.{{sfn|Goddard|2015}}

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.{{sfn|Blidner|2015}} Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].{{sfn|Iasimone|2015}} Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.{{sfn|O'Connell|2015}}

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.{{sfn|Michaels|2013}} Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].{{sfn|Josephs|2012}}{{sfn|Capper|2013}}{{sfn|Caldwell|2014}} The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.{{sfn|Meara|2014}}{{sfn|James|2014}} Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.{{sfn|Vlad|2014}}

==Personal life==
At the age of 16, Keef had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} Keef was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.{{sfn|Bossip Staff|2012}} In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.{{sfn|Muhammad|2013}} In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.{{sfn|T|2014}} In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Keef, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.{{sfn|Drake|2013}} Keef's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Konkol|2013a}} Another of Keef's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|Koplowitz|2014}} Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.{{sfn|Diep|2014}}{{sfn|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}}

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Keef was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}} As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}}

In December 2011, Keef left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Keef, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Keef was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.{{sfn|Phillips|2013}}

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Keef was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".{{sfn|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}} This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,{{sfn|Horowitz|2012a}} which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.{{sfn|Kuperstein|2012}} Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012b}}

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Keef to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.{{sfn|Ryon|2013a}} The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.{{sfn|Ryon|2012b}} On December 31, 2012, Keef was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Main|2012}} Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."{{sfn|Meisner|2013}}

On January 15, 2013, Keef was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Keef was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.{{sfn|Main|2013a}} On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013b}}

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.{{sfn|Ryon|2013b}} He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.{{sfn|Rys|2013}}

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.{{sfn|Monde|2013}} He was released later in the day.{{sfn|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}} Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.{{sfn|Ryon|2013c}} He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.{{sfn|Main|2013b}}

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}} On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.{{sfn|Kramer|2013}} However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.{{sfn|Jackson, R.|2013}} Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.{{sfn|C.M.|2014b}}

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Keef to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Keef with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Keef's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.{{sfn|Hailey|2014}}

In June 2014, Keef was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}} Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Keef is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}{{sfn|Hudson|2014}} The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.{{sfn|Seth|2013}} ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}}
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."{{sfn|Mansell|2014}} Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}}{{sfn|Chandler|2012}}

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Keef's image and message, describing the rapper as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}} Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.{{sfn|Guarino|2012}}

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.{{sfn|Chandler|2012}} A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,{{sfn|Keef|2012a}} but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.{{sfn|Keef|2012b}} On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012a}}

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.{{sfn|Servantes|2014}} Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].{{sfn|Jenkins|2014}} Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.{{sfn|Steinfeld|2014}}

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Keef uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].{{sfn|Abernethy|2012}} Keef shortly removed the image from his account.{{sfn|XXL Staff|2012}} However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].{{sfn|Rogulewski|2012}} Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.{{sfn|Carter|2015}}{{sfn|Downs|2014}}

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|20em}}

===Notes===
{{refbegin|30em}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Abernethy|2012}}|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2013}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2015}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Austen|2013}}|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|B.|2012}}|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Blidner|2015}}|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Bossip Staff|2012}}|author=Bossip Staff|url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Buyanovsky|2013}}|last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014a}}|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014b}}|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caldwell|2014}}|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Capper|2013}}|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caramanica|2012}}|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014a}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014b}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2015}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media |ref={{SfnRef|Celeb|2012}}|last=Celeb|first=Jr|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Chandler|2012}}|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Coplan|2014}}|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Delerme|2012}}|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2013}}|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2014}}|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Downs|2014}}|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012c}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2013}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2015}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Fletcher|2013}}|last=Fletcher|first=James "Fletch"|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Galil|2015}}|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2014}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2015}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Gibbs|2014}}|last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goddard|2015}}|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}}|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Guarino|2012}}|last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hailey2014}}|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Haithcoat|2014}}|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012a}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012b}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013a}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013b}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hudson|2014}}|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Iasimone|2015}}|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|iTunes|2014}}|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|J.|2014}}|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, D.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, R.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|James|2014}}|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jeffries|n.d.}}|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jenkins|2014}}|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Josephs|2012}}|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012a}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012b}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2015}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013a}}|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013b}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013c}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}}|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Koplowitz|2014}}|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2012}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2013}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kuperstein|2012}}|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014a}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014b}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lipshutz|2012}}|last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}}|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lyons|2014}}|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2012}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013a}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013b}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Mansell|2014}}|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Meara|2014}}|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Meisner|2013}}|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Michaels|2013}}|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Middleton|2015}}|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Miles|2013}}|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Monde|2013}}|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012a}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012b}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2013}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2015}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muller|2015}}|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|O'Connell|2015}}|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ortiz|2014}}|last=Ortiz|first=Edwin|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Pearson|2015}}|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Phillips|2013}}|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}}|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Reed|2013}}|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rogulewski|2012}}|last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Russell|2013}}|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012b}}|last = Ryon|first = Sean|title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/|publisher =''HipHopDX''|date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013b}}|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013c}}|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 28, 2013|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rys|2013}}|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Servantes|2014}}|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Seth|2013}}|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Shapiro|2012}}|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|date=2012|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Simpson|2014}}|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014a}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014b}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014c}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Stehlik|2012}}|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Steinfeld|2014}}|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|T|2014}}|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Tardio|2014}}|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|V|2014}}|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite AV media|ref={{SfnRef|Vlad|2014}}|last=Vlad|first=DJ|author-link=DJ Vlad|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
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*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|X|2013}}|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|XXL Staff|2012}}|author=XXL Staff|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media notes|ref={{SfnRef|''Yeezus''|2013}}|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
{{refend}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-25T23:19:07Z

Jacedc: /* References */ per relevant guideline

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Life and career==
===Early life===
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].{{sfn|Austen|2013}} He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Gibbs|2014}}

===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.{{sfn|Jeffries|n.d.}} In December, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} While under house arrest, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}}{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Kramer|2012}} Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme2012}} Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].{{sfn|Lipshutz|2012}} In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."{{sfn|Drake|2012c}}

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him, including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].{{sfn|Miles|2013}} While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).{{sfn|Miles|2013}} The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013a}} Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.{{sfn|Horowitz|2012b}} Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].{{sfn|B.|2012}}

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.{{sfn|Fletcher|2013}} On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].{{sfn|Diep|2013}}

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.{{sfn|''Yeezus''|2013}} Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."{{sfn|Reed|2013}}

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.{{sfn|Russell|2013}} ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.{{sfn|X|2013}} Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}}{{sfn|Aceto|2013}} Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[#Legal issues|§ Legal issues]]), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}}

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} In January, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.{{sfn|Lilah|2014a}} In February, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.{{sfn|Smith|2014a}} During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.{{sfn|V|2014}} Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.{{sfn|Smith|2014b}} The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.{{sfn|C.M.|2014a}} In March, Chief Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|iTunes|2014}} On March 14, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".{{sfn|Ortiz|2014}} Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.{{sfn|J.|2014}}

In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.{{sfn|Williams|2014}} [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.{{sfn|Smith|2014c}} Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.{{sfn|Aceto|2015}} Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}} However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],{{sfn|Tardio|2014}}{{sfn|Lilah|2014b}} as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.{{sfn|Carter|2014a}} Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it's tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}} ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."{{sfn|Drake|2014b}} In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} The album was set to be released on December 2,{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} but was ultimately released on December 16.{{sfn|Carter|2014b}} The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,{{sfn|"Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single"|2014}} with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."{{sfn|Coplan|2014}} Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}}

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.{{sfn|Keef|2015}} Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."{{sfn|Pearson|2015}} The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}}{{sfn|Muller|2015}} In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.{{sfn|Drake|2015}}{{sfn|Galil|2015}} On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.{{sfn|Goddard|2015}}

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.{{sfn|Blidner|2015}} Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].{{sfn|Iasimone|2015}} Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.{{sfn|O'Connell|2015}}

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.{{sfn|Michaels|2013}} Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].{{sfn|Josephs|2012}}{{sfn|Capper|2013}}{{sfn|Caldwell|2014}} The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.{{sfn|Meara|2014}}{{sfn|James|2014}} Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.{{sfn|Vlad|2014}}

==Personal life==
Cozart was born when his mother was 16 and is named after his deceased uncle.{{sfn|Celeb|2012}} Keef is estranged from his biological father;{{sfn|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}} when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.{{sfn|Bossip Staff|2012}} In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.{{sfn|Muhammad|2013}} In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.{{sfn|T|2014}} In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.{{sfn|Drake|2013}} Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Konkol|2013a}} Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|Koplowitz|2014}} Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.{{sfn|Diep|2014}}{{sfn|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}}

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}} As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}}

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.{{sfn|Phillips|2013}}

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".{{sfn|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}} This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,{{sfn|Horowitz|2012a}} which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.{{sfn|Kuperstein|2012}} Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012b}}

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.{{sfn|Ryon|2013a}} The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.{{sfn|Ryon|2012b}} On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Main|2012}} Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."{{sfn|Meisner|2013}}

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.{{sfn|Main|2013a}} On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013b}}

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.{{sfn|Ryon|2013b}} He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.{{sfn|Rys|2013}}

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.{{sfn|Monde|2013}} He was released later in the day.{{sfn|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}} Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.{{sfn|Ryon|2013c}} He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.{{sfn|Main|2013b}}

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}} On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.{{sfn|Kramer|2013}} However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.{{sfn|Jackson, R.|2013}} Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.{{sfn|C.M.|2014b}}

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.{{sfn|Hailey|2014}}

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}} Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}{{sfn|Hudson|2014}} The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.{{sfn|Seth|2013}} ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}}
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."{{sfn|Mansell|2014}} Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}}{{sfn|Chandler|2012}}

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}} Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.{{sfn|Guarino|2012}}

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.{{sfn|Chandler|2012}} A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,{{sfn|Keef|2012a}} but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.{{sfn|Keef|2012b}} On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012a}}

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.{{sfn|Servantes|2014}} Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].{{sfn|Jenkins|2014}} Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.{{sfn|Steinfeld|2014}}

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].{{sfn|Abernethy|2012}} Keef shortly removed the image from his account.{{sfn|XXL Staff|2012}} However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].{{sfn|Rogulewski|2012}} Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.{{sfn|Carter|2015}}{{sfn|Downs|2014}}

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|20em}}

===Notes===
{{refbegin|30em}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Abernethy|2012}}|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2013}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2015}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Austen|2013}}|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|B.|2012}}|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Blidner|2015}}|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Bossip Staff|2012}}|author=Bossip Staff|url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Buyanovsky|2013}}|last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014a}}|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014b}}|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caldwell|2014}}|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Capper|2013}}|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caramanica|2012}}|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014a}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014b}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2015}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media |ref={{SfnRef|Celeb|2012}}|last=Celeb|first=Jr|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Chandler|2012}}|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Coplan|2014}}|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Delerme|2012}}|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2013}}|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2014}}|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Downs|2014}}|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012c}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2013}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2015}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Fletcher|2013}}|last=Fletcher|first=James "Fletch"|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Galil|2015}}|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2014}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2015}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Gibbs|2014}}|last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goddard|2015}}|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}}|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Guarino|2012}}|last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hailey2014}}|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Haithcoat|2014}}|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012a}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012b}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013a}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013b}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hudson|2014}}|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Iasimone|2015}}|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|iTunes|2014}}|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|J.|2014}}|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, D.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, R.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|James|2014}}|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jeffries|n.d.}}|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jenkins|2014}}|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Josephs|2012}}|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012a}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012b}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2015}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013a}}|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013b}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013c}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}}|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Koplowitz|2014}}|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2012}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2013}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kuperstein|2012}}|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014a}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014b}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lipshutz|2012}}|last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}}|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lyons|2014}}|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2012}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013a}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013b}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Mansell|2014}}|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Meara|2014}}|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Meisner|2013}}|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Michaels|2013}}|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Middleton|2015}}|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Miles|2013}}|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Monde|2013}}|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012a}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012b}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2013}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2015}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muller|2015}}|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|O'Connell|2015}}|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ortiz|2014}}|last=Ortiz|first=Edwin|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Pearson|2015}}|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Phillips|2013}}|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Rapper Chief Keef Arrested"|2013}}|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Reed|2013}}|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rogulewski|2012}}|last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Russell|2013}}|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012b}}|last = Ryon|first = Sean|title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/|publisher =''HipHopDX''|date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013b}}|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013c}}|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 28, 2013|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rys|2013}}|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Servantes|2014}}|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Seth|2013}}|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Shapiro|2012}}|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|date=2012|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Simpson|2014}}|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014a}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014b}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014c}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Stehlik|2012}}|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Steinfeld|2014}}|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|T|2014}}|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Tardio|2014}}|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|V|2014}}|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite AV media|ref={{SfnRef|Vlad|2014}}|last=Vlad|first=DJ|author-link=DJ Vlad|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Williams|2014}}|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|X|2013}}|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|XXL Staff|2012}}|author=XXL Staff|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media notes|ref={{SfnRef|''Yeezus''|2013}}|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
{{refend}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-25T19:04:10Z

Jacedc: /* Bang 3, Nobody, and The Cozart (2014–present) */ ¶

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].{{sfn|Austen|2013}} He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.{{sfn|Drake|2012b}} Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Gibbs|2014}} In December 2012, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme|2012}}

==Music career==
===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.{{sfn|Jeffries|n.d.}} While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}}{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Kramer|2012}} Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.{{sfn|Drake|2012a}}{{sfn|Delerme2012}} Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"{{sfn|Delerme|2012}} It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].{{sfn|Lipshutz|2012}} In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."{{sfn|Drake|2012c}}

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him, including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].{{sfn|Miles|2013}} While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).{{sfn|Miles|2013}} The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013a}} Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.{{sfn|Horowitz|2012b}} Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].{{sfn|B.|2012}}

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.{{sfn|Fletcher|2013}} On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].{{sfn|Diep|2013}}

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.{{sfn|''Yeezus''|2013}} Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."{{sfn|Reed|2013}}

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.{{sfn|Russell|2013}} ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.{{sfn|X|2013}} Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.{{sfn|Garvey|2014}}{{sfn|Aceto|2013}} Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[#Legal issues|§ Legal issues]]), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}}

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."{{sfn|Garvey|2014}} In January, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.{{sfn|Lilah|2014a}} In February, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.{{sfn|Smith|2014a}} During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.{{sfn|V|2014}} Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.{{sfn|Smith|2014b}} The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.{{sfn|C.M.|2014a}} In March, Chief Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|iTunes|2014}} On March 14, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".{{sfn|Ortiz|2014}} Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.{{sfn|J.|2014}}

In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.{{sfn|Williams|2014}} [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.{{sfn|Smith|2014c}} Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.{{sfn|Aceto|2015}} Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}} However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],{{sfn|Tardio|2014}}{{sfn|Lilah|2014b}} as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.{{sfn|Carter|2014a}} Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it's tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}} ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."{{sfn|Drake|2014b}} In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} The album was set to be released on December 2,{{sfn|Lyons|2014}} but was ultimately released on December 16.{{sfn|Carter|2014b}} The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,{{sfn|"Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single"|2014}} with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."{{sfn|Coplan|2014}} Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.{{sfn|Garvey|2015}}

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.{{sfn|Keef|2015}} Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."{{sfn|Pearson|2015}} The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.{{sfn|Middleton|2015}}{{sfn|Muller|2015}} In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.{{sfn|Drake|2015}}{{sfn|Galil|2015}} On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.{{sfn|Goddard|2015}}

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.{{sfn|Blidner|2015}} Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].{{sfn|Iasimone|2015}} Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.{{sfn|O'Connell|2015}}

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.{{sfn|Michaels|2013}} Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].{{sfn|Josephs|2012}}{{sfn|Capper|2013}}{{sfn|Caldwell|2014}} The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.{{sfn|Meara|2014}}{{sfn|James|2014}} Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.{{sfn|Vlad|2014}}

==Personal life==
Cozart was born when his mother was 16 and is named after his deceased uncle.{{sfn|Celeb|2012}} Keef is estranged from his biological father;{{sfn|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}} when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.{{sfn|Konkol|2013c}} At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.{{sfn|Buyanovsky|2013}} Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.{{sfn|Bossip Staff|2012}} In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.{{sfn|Muhammad|2013}} In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.{{sfn|T|2014}} In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.{{sfn|Muhammad|2015}} Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.{{sfn|Drake|2013}} Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Konkol|2013a}} Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.{{sfn|Koplowitz|2014}} Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.{{sfn|Diep|2014}}{{sfn|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}} In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.{{sfn|Haithcoat|2014}}

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}} As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.{{sfn|Konkol|2013b}}

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.{{sfn|Phillips|2013}}

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".{{sfn|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}} This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,{{sfn|Horowitz|2012a}} which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.{{sfn|Kuperstein|2012}} Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012b}}

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.{{sfn|Ryon|2013a}} The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.{{sfn|Ryon|2012b}} On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.{{sfn|Main|2012}} Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."{{sfn|Meisner|2013}}

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.{{sfn|Main|2013a}} On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.{{sfn|Horowitz|2013b}}

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.{{sfn|Ryon|2013b}} He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.{{sfn|Rys|2013}}

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.{{sfn|Monde|2013}} He was released later in the day.{{sfn|"Rapper Chief Keef arrested"|2013}} Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.{{sfn|Ryon|2013c}} He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.{{sfn|Main|2013b}}

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.{{sfn|Jackson, D.|2013}} On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.{{sfn|Kramer|2013}} However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.{{sfn|Jackson, R.|2013}} Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.{{sfn|C.M.|2014b}}

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.{{sfn|Hailey|2014}}

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}} Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.{{sfn|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.{{sfn|Shapiro|2012}}{{sfn|Simpson|2014}}{{sfn|Hudson|2014}} The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.{{sfn|Seth|2013}} ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."{{sfn|Simpson|2014}} ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."{{sfn|Stehlik|2012}} David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."{{sfn|Drake|2014a}}
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."{{sfn|Caramanica|2012}} Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."{{sfn|Mansell|2014}} Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}}{{sfn|Chandler|2012}}

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.{{sfn|Ryon|2012a}} Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.{{sfn|Guarino|2012}}

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.{{sfn|Chandler|2012}} A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,{{sfn|Keef|2012a}} but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.{{sfn|Keef|2012b}} On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.{{sfn|Muhammad|2012a}}

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.{{sfn|Servantes|2014}} Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].{{sfn|Jenkins|2014}} Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.{{sfn|Steinfeld|2014}}

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].{{sfn|Abernethy|2012}} Keef shortly removed the image from his account.{{sfn|XXL Staff|2012}} However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].{{sfn|Rogulewski|2012}} Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.{{sfn|Carter|2015}}{{sfn|Downs|2014}}

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

===Notes===
{{refbegin|30em}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Abernethy|2012}}|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2013}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Aceto|2015}}|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Austen|2013}}|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|B.|2012}}|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Berger|McCoppin|Cullotta|2014}}|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Blidner|2015}}|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Bossip Staff|2012}}|author=Bossip Staff|url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Buyanovsky|2013}}|last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014a}}|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|C.M.|2014b}}|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caldwell|2014}}|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Capper|2013}}|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Caramanica|2012}}|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014a}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2014b}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Carter|2015}}|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media |ref={{SfnRef|Celeb|2012}}|last=Celeb|first=Jr|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Chandler|2012}}|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Coplan|2014}}|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Delerme|2012}}|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2013}}|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Diep|2014}}|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Downs|2014}}|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2012c}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2013}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014a}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2014b}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Drake|2015}}|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Fletcher|2013}}|last=Fletcher|first=James "Fletch"|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Galil|2015}}|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2014}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Garvey|2015}}|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Gibbs|2014}}|last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goddard|2015}}|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Goldstein|Turbin|2013}}|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Guarino|2012}}|last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hailey2014}}|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Haithcoat|2014}}|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012a}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2012b}}|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013a}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Horowitz|2013b}}|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Hudson|2014}}|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Iasimone|2015}}|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|iTunes|2014}}|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|J.|2014}}|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, D.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jackson, R.|2013}}|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|James|2014}}|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jeffries|n.d.}}|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Jenkins|2014}}|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Josephs|2012}}|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012a}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2012b}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Keef|2015}}|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web |ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013a}}|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013b}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|2013c}}|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Konkol|Janssen|Horton|2012}}|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Koplowitz|2014}}|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2012}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kramer|2013}}|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Kuperstein|2012}}|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014a}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lilah|2014b}}|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lipshutz|2012}}|last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Listen to Chief Keef's New Single"|2014}}|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Lyons|2014}}|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2012}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013a}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Main|2013b}}|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Mansell|2014}}|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Meara|2014}}|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Meisner|2013}}|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Michaels|2013}}|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Middleton|2015}}|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Miles|2013}}|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite news|ref={{SfnRef|Monde|2013}}|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012a}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2012b}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2013}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muhammad|2015}}|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Muller|2015}}|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Nickeas|Gorner|Kot|2014}}|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|O'Connell|2015}}|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ortiz|2014}}|last=Ortiz|first=Edwin|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Pearson|2015}}|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Phillips|2013}}|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|"Rapper Chief Keef Arrested"|2013}}|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Reed|2013}}|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rogulewski|2012}}|last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Russell|2013}}|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2012b}}|last = Ryon|first = Sean|title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/|publisher =''HipHopDX''|date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013a}}|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013b}}|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Ryon|2013c}}|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 28, 2013|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Rys|2013}}|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Servantes|2014}}|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Seth|2013}}|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Shapiro|2012}}|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|date=2012|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Simpson|2014}}|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014a}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014b}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Smith|2014c}}|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Stehlik|2012}}|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Steinfeld|2014}}|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|T|2014}}|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Tardio|2014}}|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|V|2014}}|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite AV media|ref={{SfnRef|Vlad|2014}}|last=Vlad|first=DJ|author-link=DJ Vlad|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|Williams|2014}}|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|X|2013}}|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}
*{{cite web|ref={{SfnRef|XXL Staff|2012}}|author=XXL Staff|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}
*{{cite AV media notes|ref={{SfnRef|''Yeezus''|2013}}|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}
{{refend}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-24T15:31:42Z

Jacedc: section link

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref name=DrakeComplex2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref name=DrakeComplex2012/> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref> In December 2012, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==
===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref> In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[#Legal issues|§ Legal issues]]), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In January, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> In February, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> In March, Chief Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."<ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref> On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.<ref name=Blidner2015>{{cite web|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].<ref name=Iasimone2015>{{cite web|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.<ref>{{cite web|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

==Personal life==
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/> Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.<ref name=artcollecting/>

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."<ref>{{cite news|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref>

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago.]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.<ref name=Servantes2014>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-24T15:28:36Z

Jacedc: minor prose

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Growing up in Chicago's [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood neighborhood]], Keef began rapping at an early age, and used his mother's karaoke machine and blank tapes to record his music. During his teenage years and while under house arrest, Keef's music videos were met with acclaim from local high school students. His increasing popularity led to him being the subject of a brief bidding war among labels. Ultimately, Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]] and later signed with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, which later developed into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref name=DrakeComplex2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> During his childhood, Keef attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref name=DrakeComplex2012/> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref> In December 2012, Keef fired gunshots from a [[Pontiac Grand Prix]] outside Chicago's [[Washington Park, Chicago (community area)|Washington Park neighborhood]]. Police showed up at the scene and the incident resulted in Keef being arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon. Keef was consequently placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement. It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==
===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref> In response to these events, David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was the subject of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth $6,000,000 over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "'Hold My Liquor' is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term (see [[Chief Keef#Legal issues|Legal issues]] section below), he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
Keef began experimenting with the production of his music in 2014, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In January, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> In February, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'', which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> During the month, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Later in the month, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> The following day, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> In March, Chief Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Although Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
In October, Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, Keef was successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape, with [[Gucci Mane]],<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> as well as ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', which was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> ''[[Rolling Stone]]'' ranked the mixtape 25th on its list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|website=Rolling Stone|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> In November, Keef announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album" that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/20161/20141215/chief-keef-kanye-west-collaboration-nobody-leak-album-release-bang-3.htm|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Music Times''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=July 24, 2015}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Elliott Pearson of [[Weekly Alibi|''The Alibi'']] commented "''Sorry 4 the Weight'' is another consistent chapter in the rapper’s singular Midwestern gothic repertoire, and if 'What Up' is any indication, he’s made serious progress as a beat-maker too."<ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref> On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.<ref name=Blidner2015>{{cite web|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with 13-month-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition. Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family. Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].<ref name=Iasimone2015>{{cite web|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.<ref>{{cite web|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE. Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

==Personal life==
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/> Despite these issues, ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab. Once acquainted, da Butcher began working on paintings personally meant for Keef.<ref name=artcollecting/>

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent", rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20120908022230/http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|archivedate=September 8, 2012}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Although prosecutors requested that he be jailed, Cook County judge Carl Anthony Walker allowed him to remain free, citing that he had not been presented "any credible evidence."<ref>{{cite news|last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook|archiveurl=http://web.archive.org/web/20130104011318/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef|archivedate=January 4, 2013}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show. According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] on December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation after testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013. The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref>

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture that is present in Chicago.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as "Sosa" by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> ''LA Weekly'' reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much," calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago.]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> A [[Twitter|tweet]] from Keef's account threatening Lupe Fiasco was posted on September 5,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then Keef claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

In November 2014, rap group [[Migos]] and Glo Gang member, Capo, were involved in a physical altercation in a Chicago restaurant.<ref name=Servantes2014>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Later, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated the already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|feud]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-17T18:56:27Z

Jacedc: per GAR

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef also became the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since becoming famous, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef continued self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base consisted of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==
===Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes (2011–2013)===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, affording Keef further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 proved to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef began the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album failed to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef was featured on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' (2014–present)===
2014 marked a year in which Keef began experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef stated that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef announced an [[Extended play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef released the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which marked Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album, titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==
===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Marvin Carr, better known by his stage name, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago.<ref name=Blidner2015>{{cite web|last=Blidner|first=Rachelle|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/crime/man-charged-baby-death-rapper-capos-murder-article-1.2291460|title=Man charged in baby’s death near Chicago rapper Capo’s murder scene|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 14, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Iasimone2015>{{cite web|last=Iasimone|first=Ashley|url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/6627309/chief-keef-chicago-concert-dillan-harris-capo-dead|title=Chief Keef Announces Concert to Memorialize Toddler Killed After Capo Shooting in Chicago|publisher=''Billboard''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old Dillan Harris in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last=Murphy|first=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|publisher=''New York Daily News''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref> Keef later announced via Twitter that he will be holding a free benefit concert to tribute Capo, as well as encourage concertgoers to donate to Harris' family.<ref name=Iasimone2015/> Due to outstanding warrants in Illinois, Keef is scheduled to attend the concert via hologram from a sound stage in [[Beverly Hills]].<ref name=Blidner2015/><ref name=Iasimone2015/> Additionally, Keef announced the formation of the Stop the Violence Now Foundation, in an attempt to decrease crime in Chicago.<ref>{{cite web|last=O'Connell|first=Patrick M.|url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/ct-chief-keef-violence-met-20150712-story.html|title=Chief Keef to hold concert to benefit family of toddler killed in crash|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=July 12, 2015|accessdate=July 16, 2015}}</ref>

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent.]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===
====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago.]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T21:24:07Z

Jacedc: /* 2011–2013: Early years, Finally Rich, and subsequent mixtapes */ rmv unnecessary comma

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==
===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T21:20:49Z

Jacedc: m edit

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==
===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the forefront of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song, "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his 18th birthday, August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T20:57:52Z

Jacedc: m fix

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in Chicago, Illinois and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==

===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the fore front of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song, "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his [[age of majority|18th birthday]], August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T20:45:41Z

Jacedc: minor lead fixes

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web |last=Buyanovsky |first=Dan |date=May 6, 2013 |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |website=[[XXL (magazine)|XXL]] |publisher=[[Townsquare Media]] |access-date=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an American [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in [[Chicago|Chicago, Illinois]] and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==

===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the fore front of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song, "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his [[age of majority|18th birthday]], August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T20:40:37Z

Jacedc: minor infobox fixes

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at [[Lollapalooza]] 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], United States
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
| occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]], record producer
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]
}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = [[#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]], [[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]
| website = {{URL|www.chiefkeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web|last=Buyanovsky|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |publisher=''XXL'' |date=May 6, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an [[United States|American]] [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago, Illinois|Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in [[Chicago|Chicago, Illinois]] and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==

===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the fore front of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song, "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his [[age of majority|18th birthday]], August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]

Chief Keef

2015-07-16T20:29:23Z

Jacedc: no need to specify "Chief" here. "Would release" → "released"

{{pp-semi-indef}}
{{Infobox musical artist
| name = Chief Keef
| alias = Chief Sosa, Almighty Sosa
| image = Chief Keef at Lollapalooza 2012 cropped.PNG
| caption = Chief Keef performing at Lollapalooza 2012
| image_size = 220px
| background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Keith Cozart
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1995|8|15}}
| birth_place = [[Chicago]], [[Illinois]], U.S.
| genre = {{flatlist|[[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
}}
| occupation = {{flatlist|
*[[Rapping|Rapper]]
*record producer}}
| associated_acts = {{flatlist|
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[Gucci Mane]]
* [[Lil Reese]]
* [[Young Chop]]}}
| years_active = 2011–present
| label = {{flatlist|
*[[Chief Keef#Glo Gang|Glo Gang]]
*[[1017 Brick Squad Records|1017 Brick Squad]]}}
| website = {{URL|www.ChiefKeef.com}}
| notable_instruments =
}}

'''Keith Cozart''' (born August 15, 1995),<ref name="xxl-db">{{cite web|last=Buyanovsky|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/from-the-mag-chief-keef-at-home/ |title=From The Mag: Chief Keef At Home |publisher=''XXL'' |date=May 6, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> better known by his [[stage name]] '''Chief Keef''', is an [[United States|American]] [[Rapping|rapper]] and [[record producer]] from [[Chicago, Illinois|Chicago]], [[Illinois]]. Keef began finding success in his music career while under house arrest, as his music videos were met with local acclaim. His increasing popularity led to a brief bidding war among labels, and ultimately Keef signed a major record deal with [[Interscope Records]]; later signing with [[1017 Brick Squad]]. Keef would also become the CEO of his own record label, Glory Boyz Entertainment, later developing into Glo Gang. His debut album ''[[Finally Rich]]'' was released on December 18, 2012.

Since he rose to fame, Keef has continued to experience ongoing legal issues. These legal issues, accompanied with Keef's notability within Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill music genre]], have caused Keef to gain a gangster-like image, which has been compared with past [[gangsta rap|gangsta]] rappers, such as [[50 Cent]]. Despite being dropped from Interscope in late 2014, Keef would continue self-releasing mixtapes through his Glo Gang label. Although Keef had originally planned ''[[Bang 3]]'' to be released as his second album, a then-track from the album, "Nobody", developed into its own project. Keef released ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'' as a full-length album in December 2014, while continuing to delay the often-pushed back ''Bang 3''.

==Early life==
Keith Cozart was born in [[Chicago|Chicago, Illinois]] and grew up in the [[Englewood, Chicago|Englewood]] neighborhood on the city's [[South Side, Chicago|South Side]].<ref name="wired">{{cite news|last=Austen|first=Ben|title=Public Enemies: Social Media Is Fueling Gang Wars in Chicago|url=http://www.wired.com/2013/09/gangs-of-social-media/all/|accessdate=October 6, 2013|newspaper=Wired|date=September 17, 2013}} "Chief Keef and Lil JoJo, two rappers from the South Side neighborhood of Englewood..."</ref><ref name="BET">{{cite web | title=On the Verge: Rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.bet.com/music/photos/2012/05/10-things-you-should-know-about-chief-keef.html#!050212-music-10-things-chief-keef-kanye-west-jadakiss| work=''[[Black Entertainment Television|BET]]'' | accessdate=August 3, 2012 | author=Gale, Alex}}</ref> He began rapping at a very young age, regularly listed as 5, using his mother's [[karaoke]] machine and blank tapes to record his music.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|publisher=''Complex''|date=April 27, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> He attended Dulles Elementary School and the Banner School, a therapeutic day school.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|title=Where Did Chief Keef Come From?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/04/where-did-chief-keef-come-from|publisher=''Complex''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref> Cozart dropped out of [[Dyett High School]] at age 15.<ref name=Shapiro>{{cite web|last=Shapiro|first=David|title=Chief Keef's Double F Life|url=http://www.interviewmagazine.com/music/chief-keefs-double-f-life#_|publisher=''Interview''|accessdate=January 31, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Gibbs|first=Adrienne Samuels| url=http://chicago.suntimes.com/uncategorized/7/71/202301/chief-keef-turns-19-shows-for-a-concert-but-is-he-growing-up/ | title=Chief Keef turns 19, shows for a concert, but is he growing up? |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| date=August 17, 2014 | accessdate=May 3, 2015}}</ref>

After an early legal issue, in which rumors of Keef being killed in a shootout with police ensued, Keef was arrested and charged with unlawful use of a weapon.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> This charge resulted in Keef being placed under house arrest at his grandmother's house for 30 days, followed by another 30 days of home confinement.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/> It has been noted that by the time this incident occurred, Keef had already achieved local South Side popularity, and that much of his early fan base was composed of high school students in the area.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://gawker.com/5892589/hip-hops-next-big-thing-is-on-house-arrest-at-his-grandmas-meet-chief-keef|title=Hip-Hop's Next Big Thing is On House Arrest at His Grandma's: Meet Chief Keef|publisher=''Gawker''|date=March 12, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref name=Delerme2012/>

==Music career==

===2011–2013: Early years, ''Finally Rich'', and subsequent mixtapes===
[[File:Kanye West At the Big Chill 2011.jpg|thumb|Kanye West, a fellow Chicagoan, discovered Chief Keef, and has since remixed his songs and collaborated with Keef]]
[[File:Chief Keef Lollapalooza 2012.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef (far right, in grey) performing at Lollapalooza 2012]]
In 2011, Keef first earned local attention from Chicago's South Side community with his mixtapes, ''The Glory Road'' and ''Bang''.<ref name=mtvbio>{{cite web|last=Jeffries|first=David|url=http://www.mtv.com/artists/chief-keef/biography/|title=Chief Keef Bio|publisher=''MTV''|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> While under house arrest for a previous weapons charge, Cozart posted several videos to his [[YouTube]] account.<ref name=Stehlik2012/> These videos were at the fore front of Chicago's hip hop subgenre, [[drill (music genre)|drill]].<ref name=Stehlik2012>{{cite web|last1=Stehlik|first1=Lucy|title=Chief Keef takes Chicago's drill sound overground|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2012/nov/16/chief-keef-chicago-drill-rap|publisher=The Guardian|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=16 November 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Caramanica|first1=Jon|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|publisher=The New York Times|accessdate=1 January 2015|date=4 October 2012}}</ref> The attention he received increased during the short time between the release of his mixtapes, ''Bang'' and ''Back From the Dead'', and music videos, including "Bang", "3Hunna" and "I Don't Like".<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref>{{cite news |last=Kramer|first=Kyle|title=RedEye Interview with Chicago rapper Chief Keef | url=http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/music/redeye-redeye-interview-with-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-20120428,0,3718460.story?page=4 | publisher=''[[Chicago Tribune]]'' |date=April 28, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Once his house arrest ended, ''[[WorldStarHipHop]]'' released a video of a child hysterically celebrating Keef's release from house arrest, prompting Keef to achieve further virality.<ref name=DrakeGawker2012/><ref name=Delerme2012>{{cite web|last=Delerme|first=Felipe|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/08/21/chief-keef-lost-boys|title=Chief Keef: Lost Boys|publisher=''The Fader''|date=August 21, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Early in his music career, Keef's song, "I Don't Like" became a local hit in Chicago, which was described by a local party promoter, as "the perfect Chicago song because 'niggas just hate everything out here.'"<ref name=Delerme2012/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bet.com/topics/c/chief-keef.html|title=Chief Keef|publisher=''BET''|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> It also caught fellow Chicago rapper [[Kanye West]]'s attention, and West created a [[remix]] of the song with rappers [[Pusha T]], [[Jadakiss]] and [[Big Sean]].<ref>{{cite web | last=Lipshutz|first=Jason|title=Listen: Kanye West & Friends Remix Chief Keef's 'I Don't Like' | url=http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-juice/46379/listen-kanye-west-friends-remix-chief-keefs-i-dont-like | publisher=''[[Billboard (magazine)|Billboard]]'' | date=May 1, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Alexis|first=Nadeska|url=http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/05/01/kanye-west-chief-keef-i-dont-like-remix-good-music/|title=Kanye West Drops Chief Keef’s ‘I Don’t Like (Remix)’ For G.O.O.D. Music|publisher=''MTV''|work=Rap Fix|date=May 1, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> David Drake of ''[[Spin (magazine)|Spin]]'' writes that in 2012, Keef, "suddenly shot up out of obscurity."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.spin.com/articles/chicago-rap-blazes-streets/?page=0|title=Chicago Rap Blazes Up from the Streets|publisher=''Spin''|date=June 25, 2012|accessdate=August 4, 2012}}</ref>

In the summer of 2012, Keef was in the middle of a bidding war with many labels to sign him including Young Jeezy's [[CTE World]].<ref name=Miles2013/> While 2013 would prove to be a relatively quiet year, in terms of his music output, Keef would begin the year by signing with [[Interscope Records]], as a separate deal promised his own label imprint, Glory Boyz Entertainment (GBE).<ref name=Miles2013>{{cite web|last=Miles |first=Dante |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22606/title.chief-keef-speaks-on-50-cent-not-being-his-mentor-signing-with-interscope-over-cte |title=Chief Keef Speaks On 50 Cent Not Being His Mentor, Signing With Interscope Over CTE |publisher=''HipHopDX ''|date=January 19, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> The deal was worth six million dollars over a three album layout, as well as an additional $440,000 in advance, to establish GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130123/englewood/chief-keef-record-deal-is-6-million-over-3-years|title=Exclusive Details of Rapper Chief Keef's $6 Million Record Deal|publisher=''DNAinfo''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The deal also set up rights for Interscope to pull out of the contract in the case that Keef's debut album would fail to sell 250,000 copies by December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22649/title.chief-keef-s-deal-with-interscope-records-revealed-to-be-worth-6-million |title=Chief Keef's Deal With Interscope Records Revealed To Be Worth $6 Million |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 23, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> Chief Keef's debut studio album ''[[Finally Rich]]'', was released on December 18, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Horowitz|first=Steven|title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Tracklist & Cover Art|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21855/title.chief-keef-finally-rich-tracklist-cover-art|accessdate=November 12, 2012|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 12, 2012}}</ref> Featured guests on the album included rappers [[50 Cent]], [[Wiz Khalifa]], [[Young Jeezy]], [[Rick Ross]] and his fellow Glory Boyz member [[Lil Reese]].<ref name="Finally Rich">{{cite web|last=B.|first=Jarrett| url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/07/07/chief-keef-finally-rich-artwork-photo/ | title=Chief Keef "Finally Rich" Artwork | publisher=''Hip Hop Wired'' | date=July 7, 2012 | accessdate=August 3, 2012 }}</ref>

On March 26, 2013, it was announced that Keef would be a part of [[XXL Magazine]]'s 2013 Freshman Class.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/03/xxl-freshman-class-2013-cover-revealed/2/ |title=XXL Freshman Class 2013 Cover Revealed - Page 2 of 2|publisher=''XXL''|date=March 27, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> On May 8, 2013, [[Gucci Mane]] announced via Twitter that Chief Keef was the newest member of [[1017 Brick Squad Records]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep|first=Eric|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-joins-gucci-manes-1017-bricksquad/ |title=Chief Keef Joins Gucci Mane's 1017 Bricksquad|publisher=''XXL''|date=May 8, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

Keef would feature on "[[Hold My Liquor]]", the fifth track off [[Kanye West]]'s album, ''[[Yeezus]]'', released on June 18, 2013.<ref name=Yeezusalbumnotes>{{cite AV media notes|url=http://images.modlife.com.s3.amazonaws.com/custom/kanye/YEEZUS-CREDITS.pdf|title=''Yeezus'' Credits|others=Kanye West|year=2013|publisher=[[Def Jam Recordings]]|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef's contributions to the track were praised by musician [[Lou Reed]], with Reed stating, "Hold My Liquor is just heartbreaking, and particularly coming from where it's coming from – listen to that incredibly poignant hook from a tough guy like Chief Keef, wow."<ref>{{cite web|last=Reed|first=Lou|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jul/03/lou-reed-kanye-west-yeezus|title=Lou Reed on Kanye West's Yeezus: 'It brings tears to my eyes'|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=July 3, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

On his [[age of majority|18th birthday]], August 15, 2013, Chief Keef celebrated by releasing the mixtape ''[[Bang, Pt. 2]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Russell|first=Alex|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/08/chief-keef-bang-2 |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Bang Pt. 2"|publisher=''Complex'' |date=August 15, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref> ''Bang, Pt. 2'' was highly anticipated as the first project following his debut album, but received a mixed to negative critical response.<ref name=GarveyFader/> On October 12, 2013 a further mixtape, ''Almighty Sosa'' was released.<ref>{{cite web|last=X|first=Dharmic|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-almighty-so-mixtape |title=Mixtape: Chief Keef "Almighty So" |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 12, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Like ''Bang, Pt. 2'', ''Almighty So'' also received mixed to negative critical responses.<ref name=GarveyFader/><ref>{{cite web|last=Aceto|first=Matt|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/review-chief-keef-s-almighty-so-news.7726.html|title=Review: Chief Keef's "Almighty So"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Following his October 2013 jail term, he began working on his second studio album and a biopic.<ref name="xxlmag.com">{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Dan |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/10/chief-keef-heading-to-jail-for-probation-violation/ |title=Chief Keef Heads To Jail For Probation Violation|publisher=''XXL'' |date=October 15, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

===2014–present: ''Bang 3'', ''Nobody'', and ''The Cozart'' ===
2014 marked a year in which Keef would begin experimenting with the production of his music, which Meaghan Garvey of ''[[The Fader]]'' noted as being fitting for Keef, as the rapper has, "always been more concerned with vibe than meaning, and production is his most efficient tool to create a mood without getting bogged down by pesky syntax."<ref name=GarveyFader>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://www.thefader.com/2014/10/28/7-chief-keef-productions|title=A Definitive History Of Chief Keef As A Producer|publisher=''The Fader''|date=October 28, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

On January 14, 2014, Chief Keef announced working on a new mixtape entitled ''[[Bang 3]]'', which as the title suggests, is the third installment to his ''Bang'' series.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-bang-3-mixtape-release-date-news.8915.html |title=Chief Keef Announces "Bang 3" Release Date [Update: New Date Announced |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 13, 2014, Chief Keef revealed the cover art to his upcoming mixtape ''Back From The Dead 2'' which served as the sequel to his critically acclaimed mixtape, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From The Dead]]''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-reveals-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-artwork-news.9345.html |title=Chief Keef Reveals "Back From The Dead 2" Mixtape Artwork |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop'' |date=February 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 17, 2014, Keef would state that his former [[purple drank|lean]] addiction and bad mixing contributed to the lack of quality music on his two mixtape projects ''Bang Pt. 2'' and ''Almighty So'' and that he himself was also disappointed in both projects.<ref>{{cite web|last=V|first=Russell|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/182530/chief-keef-admits-he-hates-his-mixtapes-because-he-was-on-lean/ |title=Chief Keef Admits He Hates His Mixtapes Because He Was on Lean |publisher=''VladTV'' |date=January 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 26, 2014, Keef revealed that he would release a [[Extended Play|EP]] before his second studio album ''Bang 3'', entitled ''Bang 4'', as a preview of sorts.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-to-release-bang-4-ep-before-bang-3-news.9536.html |title=Chief Keef To Release "Bang 4" EP Before "Bang 3" |publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=February 26, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On February 27, 2014, Fredo Santana announced that he and Keef were going to release a collaboration album.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first=Emmanuel|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/02/chief-keef-fredo-santana-coming-album/ |title=Chief Keef And Fredo Santana Are Coming Out With An Album |publisher=''XXL'' |date=February 28, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 13, 2014, Chief Keef would release the first official single from ''Bang 3'' entitled "Fuck Rehab" featuring his fellow Glo Gang artist and cousin Mario "Blood Money" Hess, which would mark for Hess's final appearance on a song before his death on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/f*ck-rehab-feat.-big-glo-single/id839846521 |title=iTunes - Music - F*ck Rehab (feat. Big Glo) - Single by Chief Keef |publisher=''Apple''|work=iTunes |date=March 13, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2014, Chief Keef released the official music video for "Fuck Rehab".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/03/chief-keef-f-blood-money-fuck-rehab |title=Chief Keef f/ Blood Money "F**k Rehab" Video |publisher=''Complex'' |date=March 13, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> On March 31, 2014, Interscope executive Larry Jackson announced that ''Bang 3'' would be released on June 10, 2014, but it was again delayed.<ref>{{cite web|last=J.|first=Miranda |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keefs-bang-3-has-a-release-date/ |title=Chief Keef's New Album Has A Release Date |publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 31, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>
[[File:Gucci Mane performing at the Williamsburg Waterfront 2.jpg|left|thumb|Gucci Mane is a frequent collaborator and mentor-like figure of Chief Keef's]]
On October 21, 2014 Keef was dropped by [[Interscope Records]], but confirmed via Twitter that every project he had planned, including the release of the long-awaited ''Bang 3'' would still be released, as he planned.<ref>{{cite web|last=Williams|first=Houston|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/10/21/exclusive-chief-keef-dropped-by-interscope-records/ |title=Exclusive: Chief Keef Dropped By Interscope Records|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=October 21, 2014|accessdate=October 21, 2014}}</ref> [[Young Chop]] criticized Interscope's decision to drop Chief.<ref>{{cite web|last=Smith|first=Trevor|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/young-chop-on-chief-keef-s-parting-with-interscope-how-did-they-drop-him-he-sold-200-000-news.12769.html|title=Young Chop On Chief Keef's Parting With Interscope: "How Did They Drop Him? He Sold 200,000"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 7, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Despite being set for a Christmas 2014 release, ''Bang 3'' did not materialize.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2015/01/19/bang-3-the-best-album-that-never-happened/|title=Chief Keef’s Bang 3: The Best Album That Never Happened|publisher=''The Source''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> Keef's mixtapes, ''Mansion Musick'', which was set for a November 28, 2014 release, and ''Thot Breakers'', which was set to release on February 14, 2015, were also noted to not release as scheduled.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW>{{cite web|last=Middleton|first=Ryan|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/28904/20150218/chief-keef-sorry-weight-mixtape-ahead-bang-3-andy-milonakis.htm|title=Chief Keef Releases 'Sorry for the Weight' Mixtape Ahead of 'Bang 3'|publisher=''Music Times''|date=February 18, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> However, on October 30, Keef and Gucci Mane were successful in releasing ''Big Gucci Sosa'', a 12-track collaborative mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tardio|first=Andres|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/1983902/gucci-mane-chief-keef-big-gucci-sosa-mixtape/|title=Gucci Mane And Chief Keef’s Horror-Themed ‘Big Gucci Sosa’ Mixtape Is Just In Time For Halloween|publisher=''MTV''|date=November 1, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Lilah|first=Rose|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/stream-chief-keef-and-gucci-mane-s-collaborative-big-gucci-sosa-project-news.12664.html|title=Stream Chief Keef & Gucci Mane's Collaborative "Big Gucci Sosa" Project|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=October 30, 2014|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> On October 31, Keef's ''[[Back from the Dead 2|Back From the Dead 2]]'', a sequel mixtape to his 2012 effort, ''[[Back from the Dead (mixtape)|Back From the Dead]]'', was made available for digital download from iTunes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/back-from-the-dead-2/id930701525|title=Back from the Dead 2|publisher=''iTunes''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/14052/20141031/stream-chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-mixtape-tracklist-gucci-mane-interscope.htm|title=Stream Chief Keef's 'Back From The Dead 2' Mixtape [TRACKLIST]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=October 31, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef experimented with the production of his own tracks, self-producing 16 of the 20 songs on the mixtape.<ref name=Garveyreview/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', stated, "For his first steps into rapper-producer territory, he shows promise—though it’s tough to imagine most of these beats working outside the context of a Chief Keef album, as they are primed to frame his vocals."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20027-chief-keef-gucci-mane-back-from-the-dead-2big-gucci-sosa/|title=Back From The Dead 2 / Big Gucci Sosa|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 29, 2014}}</ref> The mixtape was ranked 25th on ''[[Rolling Stone]]'''s list of the 40 best rap albums of 2014, with the publication commenting, "The bleak world from which he came still shapes his sound; it's a bleak and lonely record, with few guests and a darkly psychedelic shape formed by drugs and likely PTSD. Yet he finds a gleeful humanity inside the world's rotten core, with bluntly potent, economical rapping that gets strong mileage per word."<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/lists/40-best-rap-albums-of-2014-20141223/chief-keef-back-from-the-dead-2-20141222|title=Chief Keef, 'Back From the Dead 2'|publisher=''Rolling Stone''|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref>

In November 2014, Chief announced ''[[Nobody (album)|Nobody]]'', a "Glo Producer album," that featured guest vocals from [[Kanye West]] and Tadoe.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/11/22/chief-keefs-nobody-collaboration-with-kanye-west-finally-has-a-release-date/|title=Chief Keef’s "Nobody" Collaboration with Kanye West Finally has a Release Date|publisher=''The Source''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref><ref name=Lyonsnobody>{{cite web|last=Lyons|first=Patrick|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef Announces "Nobody: The Album" Featuring Kanye West & Tadoe|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=November 22, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> The album was set to be released on December 2, 2014,<ref name=Lyonsnobody/> but was ultimately released on December 16.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-nobody-the-album-featuring-kanye-west-and-tadoe-news.12952.html|title=Chief Keef, Kanye West Collaboration "Nobody" Has Leaked Ahead Of Album Release|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=December 18, 2014}}</ref> The album's title track was noted for being one of Keef's more emotionally driven outputs, with Chris Coplan of ''[[Consequence of Sound]]'' writing, "the track itself feels like the apex of a night spent binge-drinking."<ref name=Garveyreview>{{cite web|last=Garvey|first=Meaghan|url=http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/20087-nobody/|title=Nobody|publisher=''Pitchfork Media''|date=January 12, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://thesource.com/2014/12/15/listen-to-chief-keefs-new-single-nobody-featuring-kanye-west/|title=Listen To Chief Keef’s New Single, "Nobody," Featuring Kanye West|publisher=''The Source''|date=December 15, 2015|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Coplan|first=Chris|url= http://consequenceofsound.net/2014/12/chief-keef-and-kanye-west-team-up-for-nobody-listen/|title=Chief Keef and Kanye West team up for "Nobody" — listen|publisher=''Consequence of Sound''|date=December 15, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Additionally, the album was awarded a 7.0/10 score by ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'''s Meaghan Garvey.<ref name=Garveyreview/>

On February 18, 2015, Keef released ''[[Sorry 4 the Weight]]'', a 20-track mixtape.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.datpiff.com/Chief-Keef-Sorry-4-The-Weight-mixtape.687791.html|title=Sorry 4 The Weight|publisher=''Datpiff''|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Pearson|first=Elliot|url=http://alibi.com/music/48728/Sonic-Reducer-Micro-reviews-of-Drake-and-Chief-Ke.html|title=Sonic Reducer: Micro reviews of Drake and Chief Keef's new tapes|publisher=''Alibi''|date=March 25, 2015|accessdate=March 28, 2015}}</ref> The mixtape was largely a solo effort, featuring only [[Andy Milonakis]] and Glo Gang labelmate, Benji Glo.<ref name=MiddletonS4TW/><ref>{{cite web|last=Muller|first=Marissa G.|url=http://radio.com/2015/02/23/chief-keef-andy-milonakis-studio-video/|title=Here’s What Happens When You Get Chief Keef & Andy Milonakis in the Studio Together|publisher=''Radio''|date=February 23, 2015|accessdate=March 22, 2015}}</ref> In 2015, Keef's track "Faneto" was noted for slowly building momentum since its October 2014 release.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/01/bout-to-blow-january/chief-keef-faneto|title=Bout to Blow: 10 Dope Songs You Should Be Hearing Everywhere Soon|date=January 2, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Galil|first=Leor|url=http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2015/04/08/the-unexpected-appeal-of-faneto-chief-keefs-slow-growing-underground-hit|title=The unexpected appeal of 'Faneto,' Chief Keef's slow-growing underground hit|publisher=''Chicago Reader''|date=April 8, 2015|accessdate=April 12, 2015}}</ref>

On April 24, 2015, Keef announced his next album would be titled ''The Cozart'', adding that it would be released soon.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goddard|first=Kevin|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-announces-new-album-the-cozart-news.15072.html|title=Chief Keef Announces New Album "The Cozart"|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=April 25, 2015|accessdate=April 25, 2015}}</ref>

==Other ventures==

===Glo Gang===
{{Infobox record label
| name = Glo Gang
| image =
| image_bg =
| parent =
| founded = 2014
| founder = Chief Keef
| status = Active
| distributor = Independent
| genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]], [[midwest hip hop]], [[drill (music genre)|drill]]
| country = [[United States]]
| location = [[Chicago, Illinois]] [[Los Angeles, California]]
| url = http://glogangworldwide.com/
}}
As part of his signing with Interscope Records, Keef's label imprint, '''Glory Boyz Entertainment''' (GBE), was established.<ref>{{cite web|last=Michaels|first=Sean|url=http://www.theguardian.com/music/2013/jan/24/chief-keef-interscope-deal|title=Chief Keef's Interscope deal worth $6m, court documents show|publisher=''The Guardian''|date=January 24, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Keef, along with his manager, Rovan Manuel, each owned 40% shares of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Keef's cousin, and fellow rapper, Fredo Santana, Keef's uncle Alonzo Carter, and Anthony H. Dade, owned the remaining 20% of GBE.<ref name=Konkol2013/> Various associates of Keef's would be signed with the label, such as rappers [[Lil Reese]], [[Fredo Santana]] and producer [[Young Chop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Josephs|first=Brian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/08/who-is-lil-reese/|title=Who Is Lil Reese?|publisher=''Complex''|date=August 20, 2012|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Capper|first=Andy|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/santanas-in-town-fredo-santana-on-chief-keef-gbe-and-the-beatles|title=Santana's in Town - Fredo Santana on Chief Keef, G.B.E., and the Beatles|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=February 12, 2013|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.vibe.com/2014/11/young-chop-durk-murder-team-video/|title=Young Chop And Lil Durk Get Caught Up With ‘The Murder Team’ (Video)|publisher=''Vibe''|date=November 11, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> The label had already been active since 2011, however only released mixtapes and was not a full on record company. After releasing Keef's ''Finally Rich'' in December 2012, the label was set to release an album by [[Lil Reese]] in the coming months, along with various mixtapes. However, on January 3, 2014, Chief Keef said that Glory Boyz Entertainment was "no more," and was starting a new record label named '''Glo Gang'''.<ref>{{cite web|last=Meara |first=Paul |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.26889/title.chief-keef-tweets-about-stolen-marijuana-while-in-rehab |title=Chief Keef Tweets About Stolen Marijuana While In Rehab | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 5, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Nicolas|url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/chief-keef-discontinues-glory-boyz-entertainment-news.8799.html|title=Chief Keef Discontinues Glory Boyz Entertainment In Favor Of Glo Gang, Calls For New Artists|publisher=''Hot New Hip Hop''|date=January 5, 2014|accessdate=March 23, 2015}}</ref> Prior to his death, Blood Money revealed in an interview the members of Glo Gang to be Chief Keef, Tray Savage, Ballout, Capo, Tadoe, Justo, and himself.<ref>{{cite AV media|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7hGL88rFRQ|title=Big Glo's Last Interview: Gucci Mane Is Big Homie|publisher=YouTube|work=VladTV|date=April 23, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

;Current artists
* Chief Keef
* Tray Savage
* Ballout
* [[Tadoe]]
* Justo
* Benji Glo
* Mane Mane 4CGG
* Lil Flash
* Terintino

;Former artists
* [[Fredo Santana]]
* [[SD]]
* Blood Money (Deceased)
* Capo (Deceased)
* Gino Marley
* [[Lil Reese]]
* DP

==Personal life==
[[File:Chicago-Illinois-USA-skyline-day.jpg|thumb|420px|Chief Keef was born in Chicago, earning local recognition early in his rap career, and has continued to reference the city in his lyrics]]
Cozart was born when his mother was 16, and is named after his deceased uncle.<ref>{{cite AV media | url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5VCtngStMY | title=@JrCeleb Chief Keef interview featuring DJ Kenn|publisher=YouTube|work=PAYOLA TV | date=January 11, 2012 | accessdate=December 14, 2012 }}</ref> Keef is estranged from his biological father;<ref name=GoldTurb2013>{{cite web|last1=Goldstein|first1=Steven|last2=Turbin|first2=Sarah|url=http://www.chicago-bureau.org/chicagos-drill-rap-movement-expression-of-struggle-or-a-glorifying-of-violence/|title=Chicago’s ‘Drill Rap’ Movement: Expression of Struggle or a Glorifying of Violence?|publisher=''Chicago-Bureau.org''|date=December 20, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> when he was a minor, Cozart's legal guardian was his grandmother, whom he lived with during his residence in Chicago.<ref name=Konkol2013/> At the age of 16, Cozart had his first child, a daughter, born Kayden Kash Cozart and nicknamed Kay Kay.<ref name="xxl-db" /> Cozart was served with a request for child support by the child's mother.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://bossip.com/692392/put-on-blast-17-year-old-ratchet-rapper-chief-keef-slapped-with-them-child-support-papers-by-teenage-baby-mama/ | title=Chief Keef Gets Served With Child Support| publisher=''Bossip'' | date=December 5, 2012 | accessdate=December 7, 2012 | author=Bossip Staff}}</ref> In November 2013, DNA documents revealed that Keef was the father of Erica Early's then-10 month old daughter, and was subsequently ordered to begin paying child support.<ref name=Muhammad2013>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2013/11/25/chief-keef-paternity-test.html|title=Chief Keef Ordered to Pay Child Support for 10-Month-Old Daughter|publisher=''BET''|date=November 25, 2013|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In September 2014, Keef announced the birth of his third child, and his first son, whom he named Krüe Karter Cozart.<ref>{{cite web|last=T|first=Jessica|url=http://www.vladtv.com/blog/198426/chief-keef-proudly-shows-off-his-newborn-son-on-instagram/361864/|title=Chief Keef Proudly Shows Off His Newborn Son on Instagram|publisher=''VladTV''|date=September 23, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> In May 2015, Keef was sued by another woman, claiming that Keef is the father of her child.<ref name=Muhammad2015>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://www.bet.com/news/music/2015/05/28/report-chief-keef-hit-with-another-paternity-suit.html|title=Report: Chief Keef Hit with Another Paternity Suit|publisher=''BET''|date=May 28, 2015|accessdate=June 2, 2015}}</ref> Due to never originally responding the legal documents, Keef was ordered to court, with a warrant for his arrest placed as the consequence for his absence in court.<ref name=Muhammad2015/>

Two of Keef's cousins, Fredo Santana and Tadoe, were signed to his Glory Boyz Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Drake|first=David|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/02/interview-fredo-santana|title=Q & A: Fredo Santana Talks the GBE Crew Album and Chicago Rap Misconceptions|publisher=''Complex''|date=February 9, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Cozart's stepbrother was shot dead on January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130107/chicago/chief-keefs-stepbrother-shot-dead-on-south-side | title=Chief Keef's Stepbrother Shot Dead on South Side | publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago'' | date=January 7, 2013 | accessdate=January 7, 2013 | author=Konkol, Mark}}</ref> Another of Cozart's cousin, Mario Hess, also known as Big Glo, who performed under the stage name Blood Money, was shot and killed in Chicago's Englewood neighborhood on April 9, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|last=Koplowitz|first=Howard|url=http://www.ibtimes.com/blood-money-dead-chief-keefs-cousin-rapper-mario-hess-aka-big-glo-shot-killed-chicago-1569938|title=Blood Money Dead: Chief Keef's Cousin, Rapper Mario Hess, AKA Big Glo, Shot And Killed On Chicago Street [VIDEO]|publisher=''International Business Times''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Hess had been signed to Interscope Records just two weeks prior to his killing.<ref>{{cite web|last=Diep |first=Eric |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/04/chief-keefs-cousin-blood-money-killed-in-west-englewood-neighborhood/ |title=Chief Keef's Cousin Blood Money Killed In West Englewood Neighborhood |publisher=''XXL''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Nickeas|first1=Peter|last2=Gorner|first2=Jeremy|last3=Kot|first3=Greg|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-04-10/news/chi-blood-money-big-glo-chief-keef-englewood-chicago-20140410_1_chief-keef-keith-cozart-young-chop|title=Chief Keef's cousin Big Glo shot to death in Englewood|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=April 10, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

After being evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home, Keef relocated to [[Los Angeles]].<ref name=eviction/><ref name=artcollecting/> In an interview with [[Noisey]]'s Rebecca Haithcoat, Keef told Haithcoat his favorite part about Los Angeles is, "the quiet."<ref name=artcollecting/> In 2014, Keef began indulging in his new-found hobby of art collecting, once he discovered the paintings of art teacher Bill da Butcher, while in rehab.<ref name=artcollecting>{{cite web|last=Haithcoat|first=Rebecca|url=http://noisey.vice.com/blog/chief-keef-art-show-interview|title=We Went to Chief Keef's First Art Gallery Show and Interviewed Him|publisher=''Vice''|work=Noisey|date=December 23, 2014|accessdate=March 25, 2015}}</ref> Once acquainted, da Butcher became Keef's personal artist of sorts.<ref name=artcollecting/>

On July 12, 2015, Capo, a longtime member of Keef's Glo Gang label, was shot and killed in a drive-by shooting in Chicago. Upon killing Capo, the drivers of the vehicle reportedly struck a stroller with a one-year-old baby in it, killing the baby in addition.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Murphy|first1=Doyle|title=Chicago rapper Capo dead in drive-by; fleeing suspects kill baby in hit-and-run|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/chicago-rapper-capo-shot-dead-fleeing-shooter-run-baby-article-1.2289949|website=NY Daily News}}</ref> Keef announced on Twitter that he would be holding a free benefit concert in Chicago to end the gun violence for the family of the infant and Capo. Capo's death comes just a week after Keef released the song "Ain't Missing You."

===Legal issues===
On January 27, 2011, Cozart was apprehended on charges of [[heroin]] manufacture and distribution.<ref name=2011charges/> As a juvenile offender, Cozard was determined "delinquent," rather than guilty of his charges, and served time on house arrest.<ref name=2011charges>{{cite web|last=Konkol|first=Mark|title=Police Shot at Chief Keef After Rapper Pointed Gun at Them, Cops Say|url=http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130114/chicago/cops-shot-at-chief-keef-2011-after-teen-rapper-pointed-gun-police-say|publisher=''DNAinfo Chicago''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=January 15, 2013}}</ref>

In December 2011, Cozart left his grandmother's home holding a coat over his hands in front of his waistband. A policeman stopped to question the rapper, who dropped the coat, flashed a handgun and ran away. Officers chased then 16-year-old Cozart, who turned around several times and pointed the gun at them. The policemen "discharged their weapons," but missed. They caught him a half-block later and recovered the pistol, which was loaded. Cozart was charged with three counts of aggravated assault with a firearm on a police officer and aggravated unlawful use of a weapon. He was also given a misdemeanor charge for resisting arrest. He was held in the [[Cook County]] Juvenile Detention Center until a judge sentenced him to home confinement at his grandmother’s house.<ref>{{cite web|last=Phillips|first=Rashad|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22531/title.police-shot-at-chief-keef-prior-to-2011-arrest|title=Police Shot At Chief Keef Prior To 2011 Arrest|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 14, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On September 5, 2012, [[Chicago Police Department|Chicago Police]] stated that Cozart was being investigated for a possible connection in the shooting death of fellow rapper and Englewood resident, Joseph Coleman, who performed under the stage name "Lil JoJo".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Konkol|first1=Mark|last2=Janssen|first2=Kim|last3=Horton|first3=Allison|url=http://www.suntimes.com/14964520-761/lil-jojo-murdered-in-chicago-police-now-looking-at-chief-keefs-tweets-source-says.html|title=Lil JoJo Tweeted his location just hours before he was slain|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Gorner|first=Jeremy|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-10-20/news/ct-met-rapper-shootings-1021-20121021_1_chief-keef-south-side-shootings-rap-feud|title=Sources: South Side shootings could be linked to rap feud|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=October 20, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> This came after Keef had mocked his death on Twitter,<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21029/title.chief-keef-laughs-at-death-of-fellow-rapper|title=Chief Keef Laughs At Death Of Fellow Rapper|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> which he later claimed was the result of his account being hacked.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kuperstein|first=Slava|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21074/title.chief-keef-denies-involvement-in-murder-of-chicago-rapper-lil-jojo-claims-twitter-account-was-hacked|title=Chief Keef Denies Involvement In Murder Of Chicago Rapper Lil Jojo, Claims Twitter Account Was Hacked|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=September 9, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Coleman's mother has openly claimed that Chief Keef paid to have her son killed.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/12/03/lil-jojos-mom-says-chief-keef-paid-somebody-to-kill-her-son-video/|title=Lil JoJo’s Mom Says Chief Keef "Paid Somebody" To Kill Her Son [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=December 3, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 17, 2012, [[Cook County, Illinois|Cook County]] prosecutors asked a judge to remand Cozart to [[youth detention|juvenile detention]] for alleged parole violations stemming from a video interview he held at a [[shooting range]] which included him discharging a firearm. A hearing was set for November 20, 2012, which was subsequently pushed back January 28, 2013, and then moved up to January 15.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22263/title.chief-keefs-probation-hearing-pushed-back-to-january|title=Chief Keef's Probation Hearing Moved Up Two Weeks|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=January 8, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> The website that posted it, ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'', was ordered by the court to provide the interview's footage after they removed it three months prior.<ref>{{cite web | last = Ryon | first = Sean | title = Pitchfork Media Ordered To Turn Over Video Of Chief Keef At Gun Range| url = http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22115/title.pitchfork-media-ordered-to-turn-over-video-of-chief-keef-at-gun-range/ | publisher =''HipHopDX'' | date = December 5, 2012 | accessdate = December 6, 2012 }}
</ref> On December 31, 2012, Cozart was issued a [[Summons#Judicial summons|judicial summons]] for a new and unrelated alleged parole violation. Prosecutors claimed that he failed to notify his juvenile [[parole officer]] about a change of address. A hearing was set for January 2, 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/17320349-418/sources-rapper-chief-keef-moves-to-northbrook-but-doesnt-tell-probation-officer.html|title=Sources: Rapper Chief Keef moves to Northbrook but doesn’t tell probation officer|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=December 31, 2012}}</ref> Cozart scored a victory in court, when the judge allowed him to remain free over prosecutors request that he be jailed.<ref>{{cite news |last=Meisner|first=Jason| url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-02/news/chi-judge-no-credible-evidence-chief-keef-moved-to-northbrook-20130102_1_jullian-brevard-keith-cozart-chief-keef | publisher=''Chicago Tribune'' | date = January 2, 2013 | accessdate = January 3, 2013 |title = Judge: No 'credible evidence' Chief Keef moved to Northbrook}}</ref>

On January 15, 2013, Cozart was taken into custody after a juvenile court judge ruled that the aforementioned gun range interview video constituted a probation violation. Two days later, Cozart was sentenced to two months in a juvenile detention facility and was additionally made a ward of the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108084104/http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/17637665-418/chief-keef-sentenced-to-60-days-on-probation-violation.html |title=Tearful Chief Keef gets 60 days in juvenile jail for violating probation|publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times'' |date=January 17, 2013|archivedate=November 8, 2014|accessdate=December 24, 2014}}</ref> On March 14, 2013, Keef was released from a juvenile detention center after serving the 60 days for violating his probation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz |first=Steven J. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.23204/title.chief-keef-released-from-juvenile-detention-center |title=Chief Keef Released From Juvenile Detention Center |publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=March 14, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref>

On January 17, 2013, Keef was sued by [[Washington, D.C.]]-based promotion company Team Major for $75,000 for a missed show.<ref name=Ryon2013/> According to the firm, Keef was supposed to perform at the [[The O2 Arena|IndigO2 Arena]] in [[London]] this past December 29, 2012 but never showed. Neither Keef nor his label has given any kind of response as to why he missed the date.<ref name=Ryon2013>{{cite web|last=Ryon |first=Sean |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22570/title.chief-keef-hit-with-75-000-lawsuit-over-missed-show |title=Chief Keef Hit With $75,000 Lawsuit Over Missed Show |publisher=''HipHopDX'' |date=January 17, 2013 |accessdate=May 10, 2013}}</ref> He ignored the lawsuit and the court sided with Team Major, ordering Keef to pay $230,019 to Team Major by default.<ref>{{cite web|last=Rys|first=Dan|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/08/chief-keef-ordered-to-pay-230000-over-abandoned-london-show/ |title=Chief Keef Ordered To Pay $230,000 Over Abandoned London Show |publisher=''XXL''|date=August 5, 2013 |accessdate=August 25, 2013}}</ref>

On May 20, 2013, he was arrested in an upscale hotel in [[DeKalb County, Georgia]] for allegedly smoking [[marijuana]] in public and for disorderly conduct.<ref>{{cite news|last=Monde |first=Chiderah |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/gossip/rapper-chief-keef-arrested-atlanta-article-1.1350220 |title=Chief Keef arrested: Rapper busted for smoking marijuana at swanky hotel|publisher=''[[New York Daily News]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> He was released later in the day.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Entertainment_News/Music/2013/05/21/Rapper-Chief-Keef-arrested-for-disorderly-conduct/UPI-35381369153855/ |title=Rapper Chief Keef arrested for disorderly conduct|publisher=''[[UPI]]'' |date=May 21, 2013|accessdate=May 21, 2013}}</ref> Eight days later, Keef was arrested for driving 110 mph in a 55 mph zone in his hometown Chicago, and also for driving with an unlawful amount of passengers. He was later released on a bond.<ref>{{cite web|title=Chief Keef Charged With Driving 110 MPH In A 55 MPH Zone|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/05/chief-keef-charged-with-driving-110-mph-in-a-55-mph-zone/|publisher=''XXL''|accessdate=May 31, 2013}}</ref> He returned to court on June 17, and pled guilty to speeding. He was ordered to pay a $531 fine, serve 18 months of probation, complete 60 hours of community service and undergo random drug tests.<ref>{{cite news|last=Main|first=Frank|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/20798114-761/chief-keef-faces-second-paternity-case-pleads-guilty-to-speeding.html |publisher=''Chicago Sun-Times''| title=Chief Keef's bad day: Pleads guilty, hit with second paternity suit — gets arrested again |date=June 17, 2013|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref>

On October 15, 2013, Keef returned to jail for a 20-day sentence due to a probation violation. The probation violation was due to testing positive for marijuana.<ref name="xxlmag.com"/> On October 24, 2013, Keef was released ten days early for good behavior.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kramer|first=Kyle|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/10/chief-keef-released-from-jail-10-days-early |title=Chief Keef Released From Jail 10 Days Early |publisher=''Complex'' |date=October 23, 2013 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> However, again on November 6, 2013, Keef was sent back to jail on another probation violation.<ref>{{cite web|last=Jackson |first=Reed |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2013/11/chief-keef-going-back-jail/ |title=Chief Keef Is Going Back To Jail |publisher=''XXL'' |date=November 6, 2013|accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref> Then following a stint in rehab, Keef was arrested on March 5, 2014 in [[Highland Park, Illinois]] for [[DUI]] of marijuana, driving on a suspended license and cited for having no proof of insurance.<ref>{{cite web|last=C.M.|first= Emmanuel |url=http://www.xxlmag.com/news/2014/03/chief-keef-arrested-dui/ |title=Chief Keef Is Arrested For DUI| publisher=''XXL'' |date=March 17, 2014 |accessdate=July 10, 2014}}</ref>

On February 4, 2014, Kim Productions filed suit against Cozart to recover losses they allege they incurred after he failed to appear at a RapCure benefit concert in [[Cleveland]], [[Ohio]] in June 2013.<ref>{{cite web|last=Hailey|first=Jonathon|title=New Lawsuit Alleges Chief Keef Hates Cancer Charities|url=http://theurbandaily.com/2014/02/04/chief-keef-cancer-charity-lawsuit/|publisher=''The Urban Daily''|date=February 4, 2014|accessdate=February 4, 2014}}</ref> The suit alleges that Kim Productions provided Cozart with a $15,000 deposit for the performance. Despite the advance, the lawsuit further alleges that as a result of Cozart's failure to appear, the concert had to be cancelled.

In June 2014, Cozart was evicted from his [[Highland Park, Illinois|Highland Park]] home.<ref name=eviction>{{cite web|last1=Berger|first1=Susan|last2=McCoppin|first2=Robert|last3=Cullotta|first3=Karen Ann|url=http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2014-06-10/news/-chief-keef-evicted-20140610_1_rovaun-manuel-keith-cozart-chief-keef|title=Chief Keef evicted from Highland Park home|publisher=''Chicago Tribune''|date=June 10, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2014}}</ref> Although Bal Bansal, the owner of the house, maintained Keef was a good tenant, and that his departure from the home was voluntary, police confirmed it was an eviction.<ref name=eviction/>

==Image==
{{Listen
|filename=Love Sosa - Chief Keef.ogg
|title=Love Sosa – Chief Keef (2012)
|description=A 30-second sample of the chorus to "Love Sosa", which has contributed to Keef's image as drill's forerunner|format=[[Ogg]]}}
Cozart is often seen as a representation of the "[[South Side, Chicago|Chiraq]]" gangsta rap culture.<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster>{{cite web|last=Simpson|first=Isaac|url=http://www.laweekly.com/westcoastsound/2014/11/06/was-chief-keef-too-gangster-for-interscope|title=Was Chief Keef Too Gangster for Interscope?|publisher=''LA Weekly''|date=November 6, 2014|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> ''[[LA Weekly]]'' reported that, at least on [[Instagram]], Cozart, "appears to take fatherhood seriously."<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''LA Weekly'' also reported that Keef's Glo Gang entourage respects the rapper. One member of the Glo Gang, Ballout, stated, "We learned all that from Sosa, we be in the studio with him so much,” calling him, "a rhyming machine. A music genius. Black [[Justin Bieber]], if you ask me.”<ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/> ''[[The New York Times]]'' stated that Chief Keef, "symbolizes," Chicago's [[drill (music genre)|drill]] music scene, and is the, "best known of the young generation of Chicago rappers."<ref name=NYT2012>{{cite web|last=Caramanica|first=Jon|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2012/10/07/arts/music/chicago-hip-hops-raw-burst-of-change.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|title=Chicago Hip-Hop’s Raw Burst of Change|publisher=''The New York Times''|date=October 7, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> In November 2012, Lucy Stehlik of ''[[The Guardian]]'', described Keef as drill's, "alpha male."<ref name=Stehlik2012/> David Drake of ''[[Pitchfork Media]]'' writes, "Chief Keef is in rarefied air for street rap—a creative voice with an original, cohesive aesthetic," adding, "to the grassroots, among a new generation of stars, he sits at street rap’s aesthetic center, not its margins."<ref name=DrakeBFTD2/>
[[File:50 cent en concierto.jpg|thumb|Chief Keef has drawn comparisons to 50 Cent]]
Keef has drawn comparisons to [[50 Cent]], as ''The New York Times'' writes, that like 50 Cent, Keef makes thuggery, "a major part of his early-career persona."<ref name=NYT2012/> Lupe Fiasco, who has been involved with a controversy with Keef, has been referred to as an "antagonist" of sorts to Keef's more gangsta-rap persona. ''The New York Times'' writes, "Lupe Fiasco is a stern and didactic teacher, but it’s arguable that Chief Keef’s music is far better at ringing warning bells."<ref name=NYT2012/> Another rapper, [[Common (rapper)|Common]], has praised Chief Keef's contributions to rap, stating, "I think Chief Keef brought something that nobody else was doing and he brought it raw. He brought it real. With that, I have to respect that as an artist that he has come and brought that."<ref>{{cite web|last=Mansell|first=Henry|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31529/title.common-says-he-respects-chief-keef-for-being-raw-real-in-his-music|title=Common Says He Respects Chief Keef For Being Raw & Real In His Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=November 24, 2014|accessdate=November 27, 2014}}</ref> Other rappers, such as [[Rhymefest]] and [[Lupe Fiasco]], however, have been critical of Chief (see [[Chief Keef#Controversies|controversies]] section below).<ref name=Rhymefest1/><ref name=Lupe1/>

Additionally, Chief Keef is often referred to as, "Sosa," by himself, his peers, and the media.<ref name=Shapiro/><ref name=LAweeklytoogangster/><ref>{{cite web|last=Hudson|first=Tanay|url=http://allhiphop.com/2014/11/10/chief-keef-new-music-youtube/|title=Chief Keef Releases Four New Projects On YouTube|publisher=''All Hip Hop''|date=November 10, 2014|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref> The nickname, "Sosa" is a reference to [[Sammy Sosa]], a former [[Chicago Cubs]] player.<ref>{{cite web|last=Seth|first=Akshay|url=http://www.michigandaily.com/arts/lets-do-some-lines-love-sosa|title=Let's Do Some Lines: 'Love Sosa' by Chief Keef|publisher=''The Michigan Daily''|date=January 23, 2013|accessdate=November 14, 2014}}</ref>

===Controversies===

====Hip hop feuds====
[[File:Lupe Fiasco 2006.jpg|thumb|200px|Fellow Chicago rapper Lupe Fiasco has viewed Keef as a negative representation of Chicago]]
In June 2012, Chicago rapper [[Rhymefest]] authored a blog post critical of Chief Keef's image and message, describing Cozart as a "bomb" and a "spokesman for the [[prison–industrial complex|Prison Industrial Complex]]". The post was also critical of rappers [[Waka Flocka Flame]] and [[Rick Ross]], citing similar reasons.<ref name=Rhymefest1>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.20246/title.rhymefest-blasts-chief-keef-interscope-over-promoting-violent-music|title=Rhymefest Blasts Chief Keef, Interscope Over Promoting Violent Music|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=June 27, 2012|accessdate=September 29, 2012}}</ref> Rhymefest reiterated these views in a subsequent interview with ''[[Salon (website)|Salon]]''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Guarino|first=Mark| url=http://www.salon.com/2012/12/18/raps_killer_new_rhymes/|title=Rap’s killer new rhymes|publisher=''Salon''|date=December 18, 2012|accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

In an August 2012 interview with [[Baltimore]] radio station [[WERQ-FM|92Q Jams]], [[Lupe Fiasco]] stated that Chief Keef "scares" him and went on to describe the other rapper as a "hoodlum" and representative of Chicago's "skyrocketing" murder rate.<ref name=Lupe1>{{cite web|last=Chandler|first=D.L.|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/08/30/lupe-fiasco-says-fellow-chicago-rapper-chief-keef-scares-me-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Says Fellow Chicago Rapper Chief Keef "Scares Me" [VIDEO]|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=August 30, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef responded on September 5 with a [[Twitter|tweet]] threatening Lupe Fiasco,<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/statuses/243470699031830531|title=Lupe fiasco a hoe ass nigga And wen I see him I'ma smack him like da lil bitch he is #300|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> but then claimed that his account had been [[computer crime|hacked]] and that the previous tweet was inauthentic.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keef|first=Chief|url=https://twitter.com/ChiefKeef/status/243484847157428224|title=my twitter has been hacked I think I'm making a new one dumb hating ass people #DontWannaSeeAYougNiggaShine|publisher=''Twitter''|date=September 5, 2012|accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> On September 13, 2012, Fiasco released a video interview in which he made amends to Keef.<ref>{{cite web|last=Muhammad|first=Latifah|url=http://hiphopwired.com/2012/09/13/lupe-fiasco-makes-peace-with-chief-keef-says-i-love-my-brother-video/|title=Lupe Fiasco Makes Peace With Chief Keef, Says "I Love My Brother"|publisher=''Hip Hop Wired''|date=September 13, 2012 |accessdate = September 29, 2012}}</ref>

On one occasion, Keef uploaded an image onto [[Instagram]] featuring the alleged stolen chain belonging to rapper [[Quavo]] of [[Migos]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Jenkins|first=Brandon|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/migos-gbe-beef-quavos-chain-snatched|title=Quavo of Migos Allegedly Robbed by GBE Member, Chief Keef Instagrams Stolen Chain|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 17, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Though this incident escalated an already existing tension between members of Glo Gang and members of Migos, the [[hip hop feud|beef]] between the two groups was later seemingly ended.<ref>{{cite web|last=Servantes|first=Ian|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2014/11/fredo-santana-threatens-migos-for-fighting-gbe-member|title=Fredo Santana Threatens Migos for Fighting GBE Member Capo in Chicago|publisher=''Complex''|date=November 8, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Steinfeld|first=Mitchell|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.31734/title.chief-keef-migos-display-sign-of-unity|title=Chief Keef & Migos Apparently Squash Beef|publisher=''HipHopDX''|date=December 12, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

====Instagram====
On September 15, 2012, Cozart uploaded an obscene photograph featuring the rapper receiving [[fellatio]] from a female fan onto the image sharing application [[Instagram]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Abernethy|first=Samantha|url=http://chicagoist.com/2012/09/17/chief_keef_kicked_off_instagram_for.php|title=Chief Keef Kicked Off Instagram For Posting Blowjob Photo|publisher=''Chicagoist''|date=September 17, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> Keef shortly removed the image from his account.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-magazine/2012/09/chief-keef-banned-from-instagram-for-lude-photo/|title=Chief Keef Banned from Instagram for Lewd Photo|publisher=''XXL''|date=September 18, 2012|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref> However, his account was subsequently banned for violating Instagram's [[terms of service]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Rogulewski|first=Charley|title=Instagram Cancels Chief Keef's Account Over Sex Photo | url=http://www.vibe.com/node/112601|publisher=''[[Vibe (magazine)|Vibe]]''| date=September 16, 2012 | accessdate=November 8, 2014}}</ref> Keef has since created another Instagram account, and has had his activities on the app mentioned by various outlets.<ref>{{cite web|last=Carter|first=Caitlin|url=http://www.musictimes.com/articles/25118/20150119/drake-chief-keef-collaboration-glovo-logo-instagram-glo-gang-ovo-photos.htm|title=Drake, Chief Keef Collaborating? GLOVO Logo Surfaces On Instagram [PHOTOS]|publisher=''Music Times''|date=January 19, 2015|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Downs|first=David|url=http://blog.sfgate.com/smellthetruth/2014/10/13/rapper-chief-keef-opens-medical-cannabis-dispensary-in-compton/|title=Rapper Chief Keef Opens Medical Cannabis Dispensary In Compton|publisher=''San Francisco Gate''|date=October 13, 2014|accessdate=March 24, 2015}}</ref>

==Discography==
{{Main|Chief Keef discography}}

'''Studio albums:'''
*''[[Finally Rich]]'' (2012)
*''The Cozart'' (2015)
*''[[Bang 3]]'' (TBA)

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

{{Chief Keef}}
{{Authority control}}

{{Persondata
| NAME = Cozart, Keith
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = American rapper
| DATE OF BIRTH = August 15, 1995
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Chicago, United States
| DATE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Keef, Chief}}
[[Category:1995 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:1017 Brick Squad artists]]
[[Category:African-American business executives]]
[[Category:African-American record producers]]
[[Category:African-American male rappers]]
[[Category:American chief executives]]
[[Category:American hip hop record producers]]
[[Category:American music industry executives]]
[[Category:Black Disciples]]
[[Category:Businesspeople from Chicago, Illinois]]
[[Category:Drill (music genre)]]
[[Category:Gangsta rappers]]
[[Category:Midwest hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois]]