Drake is saluting his OG, hitting Instagram, and wishing Houston legend Bun B a happy birthday.
“My real family and a true mentor,” Drake wrote. “Always showed up for me and brought me into his world for a pat on the back or a reality check or some good ol game. …There’s only one Bun B MORE LIFE.”
Hip Hop history wouldn’t be the same without Bernard “Bun B” Freeman, one-half of the legendary duo UGK (Underground Kingz) and a lyrical force who helped shape Southern rap. Born on this day in 1973, Bun B has spent decades delivering raw, unfiltered bars that bridge the gap between underground grit and mainstream appeal.
As one of Texas’ finest, Bun B’s legacy is rooted in UGK’s contributions to the game. Alongside the late Pimp C, he put Port Arthur on the map with classic albums like Too Hard to Swallow (1992), Ridin’ Dirty (1996), and their self-titled double album Underground Kingz (2007), which became their first and only No. 1 on the Billboard 200. Their catalog is stacked with timeless anthems, from the street wisdom of “Pocket Full of Stones” to the smooth storytelling of “One Day”.
Of course, Bun B’s influence stretches far beyond UGK. He cemented his place in rap history with the unforgettable “Big Pimpin'”, a Jay-Z collaboration that turned Southern hip-hop into a global force. The track, built on Pimp C’s infectious charisma and Bun’s airtight delivery, remains one of the greatest crossover moments in rap.
Beyond his UGK classics, Bun B has blessed us with solo heat and legendary guest verses. Tracks like “Put It Down” (featuring Drake) showed his ability to stay relevant across generations, while his Trill series (Trill, II Trill, Trill OG) proved he could carry an entire album without missing a step. His voice is a staple on features, whether trading bars with T.I. on “Front Back”, linking with Young Jeezy on “Trap or Die 2”, or dropping knowledge alongside Ludacris on “Down in the Dirty”.
Bun B’s impact on hip-hop is undeniable. He’s been a mentor, a gatekeeper for Texas rap, and an ambassador for the South’s enduring legacy. Even as he’s expanded into ventures outside of music, from teaching at Rice University to his Trill Burgers empire, his presence in hip-hop remains legendary.
On his birthday, we salute Bun B, a true Trill OG whose voice and vision have helped define Southern rap.