Chi Ali

Chi-Ali Griffith (born May 27, 1976 in The Bronx, New York) professionally known as Chi-Ali, is an American rapper, best known for his debut album The Fabulous Chi-Ali, which he recorded at the age of 14.

Music career

Chi-Ali made his first appearance on De La Soul's single Say No Go on the song "Who's The Mack Daddy". He also made an appearance on Black Sheep's debut album A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing on "Pass the 40," a posse cut about drinking 40s, rocking women, and ripping the mic. Chi Ali at the time was a member of the Native Tongues and also had connections with the Legion family, along with Showbiz and A.G..

Soon after "Pass the 40," Chi released his first solo single "Age Ain't Nothing But a #," which was a moderate hit. It was popular on urban radio stations, and the video got good rotation on Yo! MTV Raps and Rap City. The album in which the song was featured was released shortly thereafter, which yielded two other singles, "Roadrunner" and "Funky Lemonade," which were both remixed and rerecorded, making them different than their album versions. They featured Chi with a slightly more mature voice. It received mixed reviews.

Chi Ali seemingly disappeared from the hip hop industry until the late 1990s, when he appeared on Dres's solo album Sure Shot Redemption. The album got little press and mixed, though overall good reviews.

Chi Ali collaborates with fellow Rapper Jadakiss on a song entitled G-Check. Behind the scenes footage for the music video G-Check.

Arrest and prison term

On January 14, 2000, Griffith shot and killed Sean Raymond, in The Bronx, New York.[1] At the time, Griffith was dating Raymond's sister.[1] He was charged with first degree manslaughter, as well as various lesser charges.[1] An extensive manhunt resulted, with Griffith twice being featured on the TV program America's Most Wanted.[1] He was apprehended on March 5, 2001,[1] and was subsequently convicted of the killing.[2] He served a 12-year sentence at Sing Sing Correctional Facility, where he was prisoner number 04A0267.[2] Griffith has since been released from prison.

Discography

Year Title Chart positions
U.S. Billboard 200 U.S. Heatseekers
1992 The Fabulous Chi-Ali 189 8

See also

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 Demby, Eric. "Ex-Rapper Chi-Ali Arrested A Year After Fleeing Murder Charge", MTV.com, March 14, 2001.
  2. 1 2 Gale, Alex. "Find A Way - The Native Tongues, still doing vivrant things", Vibe magazine, February 2007 (Vol. 15, No. 2), p. 99.
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