top of page
Log In to Connect With Members
View and follow other members, leave comments & more.
IHQ.png
Search
Writer's pictureThe Instrumental Headquarters

Lil Durk's Rise to Fame: A Timeline of His Journey


An Early Career photo of Chicago Artist Lil Durk

Lil Durk, born Durk Derrick Banks, has risen from the gritty streets of Chicago to become a prominent figure in Hip Hop. This journey hasn't been without its challenges, but through grit and undeniable talent, Durk carved out a career that solidified his place in the music industry. Here, we take a look at the milestones that defined Lil Durk's rise to fame and the major influences that helped shape his career.


2010-2011: Early Beginnings


Lil Durk’s career began humbly in the early 2010s. He started uploading songs to platforms like MySpace and YouTube, gaining traction with local fans and slowly building his name in Chicago’s music scene.


2012: Breakthrough with “L’s Anthem” and Signing with Def Jam


Lil Durk’s track “L’s Anthem” became a local hit in Chicago, and its popularity caught the attention of Def Jam Recordings. Later that year, he signed with the label, marking his entry into the mainstream music industry.


Back on My BullShit T Shirt

Advertisement


2013-2015: Establishing OTF and Early Mixtapes


Durk founded his own label, Only the Family (OTF), and began releasing a series of mixtapes, including Signed to the Streets. These mixtapes garnered critical acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a skilled lyricist and storyteller.


2016: Debut Studio Album and Legal Troubles


In 2016, Lil Durk released his debut studio album, Remember My Name, which included the hit single “Like Me.” However, his rising success was coupled with legal battles; Durk was involved in multiple gun-related charges during this time, which put his career on pause briefly.


2017-2019: Career Resurgence and Collaborations


After parting ways with Def Jam in 2018, Durk joined Alamo Records and saw a resurgence in his career. He collaborated with several high-profile artists like Future, Lil Baby, and Meek Mill, demonstrating his versatility and appeal across the industry.


A photo of Chicago Artist Lil Durk and Canadian Artist Drake Holding Basketballs at a Video Shot

2020: Major Hit with “Laugh Now Cry Later” Featuring Drake


One of Lil Durk’s most defining moments was his feature on Drake’s “Laugh Now Cry Later,” which quickly climbed the charts and earned Durk new fans across the globe. This collaboration not only boosted his career but also opened doors for future mainstream collaborations.


2021: Awards and Chart Success


Durk’s work with Drake earned him his first Grammy nomination for Best Melodic Rap Performance. He continued releasing chart-topping albums like The Voice, which resonated with fans due to its raw authenticity and Durk’s ability to capture street life in his lyrics.


2022: Acting Ventures and Further Recognition


Lil Durk expanded his horizons into acting with a cameo in the film Judgment Day, bringing his charisma and intensity to the big screen. This move marked his foray into other entertainment fields, demonstrating his multifaceted talent. He later secured a small but recurring role in the hit Starz television show POWER.


2024 Mug Shot of Chicago Rap Artist Lil Durk

2025: The Future of Lil Durk


With a steadily growing fan base, more collaborations on the way, and an entrepreneurial spirit, Lil Durk was beginning to position himself to dominate both the music and entertainment worlds, however as he now faces severe legal troubles, his future is unclear. Even with all of Durk's current legal woes, his journey onto the hip hop scene remains a true testament to resilience, adaptability, and raw talent in the eyes of hip hop fans everywhere.


 

Are You A Lyrical Genius In Disguise?

Dive into the world of sick beats and dope instrumentals at The Instrumental Headquarters!


0 comments

Comments


bottom of page