Table of Contents
Introduction
Vivian Wilson Fernandes, popularly known as Divine, is a trailblazing Indian rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. He was born on October 2, 1990, in Andheri, Mumbai. Renowned for his powerful lyrics and engaging performances, Divine has emerged as a defining voice in the Indian hip-hop scene. His unique style, often referred to as Gully Rap, draws inspiration from his upbringing in the chawls of Mumbai, where he faced numerous challenges and witnessed the struggles of street life.
Early Life and Influences
Growing up in a single-parent household, Divine’s early experiences shaped his artistic perspective. His journey into music began in 2011, sparked by the influence of hip-hop culture he discovered through a friend’s T-shirt featuring 50 Cent. This pivotal moment led him to explore the genre, ultimately inspiring him to start rapping in English. Divine’s influences include iconic American rappers such as Nas, Eminem, Tupac, and Rakim, whose storytelling and lyrical prowess motivated him to share his own life experiences through music.
Career Breakthrough
Divine’s career took off in 2013 with the release of his single “Yeh Mera Bombay,” which highlighted the essence of Mumbai’s vibrant culture. However, it was the 2015 hit “Mere Gully Mein,” featuring fellow rapper Naezy, that catapulted him to mainstream fame. The song resonated with audiences, becoming an anthem for aspiring artists and urban youth, ultimately leading to widespread recognition across social media platforms.
In 2019, Divine released his debut album, “Kohinoor,” under Mass Appeal India, a label founded by legendary rapper Nas. The album showcased his evolution as an artist and included tracks that reflected his personal journey, struggles, and aspirations. His collaboration with Bollywood for the film Gully Boy further solidified his status, as the film was inspired by his life and the lives of other Mumbai rappers.
Major Achievements
- Spotify Times Square Billboard: In December 2020, Divine became the first Indian rapper to be featured on the iconic Spotify Times Square billboard in New York City for his album “Punya Paap,” which topped the Apple Music India charts.
- Grammy Awards: Divine made history as the first Indian hip-hop star to attend the 64th Annual Grammy Awards in 2022, marking a significant milestone for Indian artists on the global stage.
- Award Wins: He has received numerous accolades, including the Best Indian Act at the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2021 and Best Video of the Year for “Yeh Mera Bombay” from Rolling Stone India.
Gully Gang Entertainment
In February 2019, Divine founded Gully Gang Entertainment, a platform dedicated to nurturing emerging talent in the Indian hip-hop scene. The label has produced numerous hits and has become the epicenter of the hip-hop movement in India. Artists under Gully Gang include MC Altaf, D’Evil, and Shah Rule, among others.
Gully Fest
As part of his initiative to promote hip-hop culture, Divine conceptualized Gully Fest, India’s first hip-hop festival, which aims to bring together fans and artists from across the country. This festival, along with other ventures like RedBull 64 Bars, has contributed significantly to the growth and recognition of Indian hip-hop.
Conclusion
Divine’s journey from the streets of Mumbai to becoming a global ambassador for Indian hip-hop is an inspiring tale of resilience, creativity, and passion. His dedication to his craft and commitment to uplifting other artists have made him a beloved figure in the music industry. With each new release, Divine continues to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create music that resonates with millions.
FAQs
Who is DIVINE?
DIVINE is an Indian rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his Hindi rap and hip-hop tracks. His real name is Vivian Fernandes.
What is DIVINE’s real name?
His real name is Vivian Wilson Fernandes.
When and where was DIVINE born?
He was born on October 2, 1990, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
How did DIVINE start his music career?
DIVINE started rapping in English during his school days but switched to Hindi to connect with the local audience. He rose to fame with the song “Yeh Mera Bombay” in 2013.
Was DIVINE the inspiration for the movie Gully Boy?
Yes, the 2019 Bollywood film Gully Boy, starring Ranveer Singh, was inspired by the lives of DIVINE and fellow rapper Naezy. DIVINE even contributed to the film’s soundtrack.
What is Gully Gang?
Gully Gang is DIVINE’s independent music label and crew, which promotes hip-hop artists from India. It aims to give a platform to underground rappers.
Which record label is DIVINE signed to?
DIVINE was signed to Sony Music India but later started his own label, Gully Gang Records.
What are DIVINE’s notable collaborations?
He has collaborated with artists like:
– Naezy (“Meri Gully Mein”)
– Nas (“NY Se Mumbai”)
– Karan Aujla (“100 Million”)
– Sidhu Moose Wala (“Moosedrilla”)
– Dillon Francis (“Baazigar”)
What is DIVINE’s rap style?
DIVINE’s style is rooted in Mumbai street rap, blending Hindi and Mumbai slang with raw, gritty beats. His lyrics often talk about poverty, street life, and personal struggles.
What languages does DIVINE rap in?
He raps primarily in Hindi, with occasional verses in English and Bambaiya (Mumbai street slang).
Has DIVINE won any awards?
Yes, DIVINE has won several awards, including:
– Best Video Award for “Jungli Sher” at Rolling Stone India
– GQ Men of the Year Award for Musician of the Year
– MTV Europe Music Award for Best Indian Act
What is DIVINE’s net worth?
As of recent estimates, his net worth is around $5 million, earned through music, concerts, endorsements, and collaborations.