Rome Fortune: A Rising Star in Hip-Hop
Jerome Raheem “Rome” Fortune, born on October 13, 1988, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, has emerged as a notable figure in the American hip-hop scene. Known for his unique style and diverse influences, Fortune gained prominence with his 2013 mixtape, Beautiful Pimp. This article explores his life, career, artistry, and discography, highlighting the factors that contribute to his status as a contemporary artist in the music industry.
Life and Career
Rome Fortune’s journey into music began at an early age, influenced by a family lineage steeped in musical heritage. He is related to notable jazz musicians, including cornetist Nat Adderley and saxophonist Cannonball Adderley. Growing up in such a vibrant musical environment played a crucial role in shaping his artistic identity. Fortune began rapping during his high school years and adopted the name ‘Rome’ as a nod to a character from the popular TV series Martin. He felt that the name Jerome reminded him too much of an aging pimp character from the show.
The influence of his grandfather, Richard Adderley—a jazz musician known for his vibraphone skills—has been particularly significant in Fortune’s life. Adderley not only co-produced but also played on tracks for Fortune’s Beautiful Pimp II EP. His presence is also felt in the music video for “OneDay,” showcasing the strong familial connections that permeate Fortune’s work.
In 2013, Pitchfork recognized Beautiful Pimp as one of the “Overlooked Mixtapes of 2013,” solidifying Fortune’s place in the music landscape. The following summer saw him touring with British indie-rock group Glass Animals in both the U.S. and U.K., exposing his music to new audiences and further expanding his reach as an artist.
However, Rome Fortune’s career has not been without its challenges. In January 2015, he made headlines by turning himself into police custody under unspecified circumstances but was released shortly thereafter. This incident did not deter him from pursuing his passion; he joined IAMSU’s “Eyes on Me” North American tour later that year.
Initially unsigned after releasing his early EP The Air Mattress through Wil May’s Makeshift label, Fortune secured a deal with Fool’s Gold Records in late 2015. The following year marked a significant milestone with the release of his debut album, Jerome Raheem Fortune. As of summer 2024, he signed with Fogwood Records, indicating continued growth and evolution in his career.
Artistry
Influences
Rome Fortune’s musical influences are as diverse as his sound. He often cites 90s rap as a significant source of inspiration, particularly DMX’s Flesh of My Flesh, Blood of My Blood, which he describes as the “rap album that changed [his] life.” This influence is evident in his lyrical style and thematic choices that resonate with the grit and authenticity characteristic of that era.
Beyond hip-hop, Fortune draws inspiration from jazz music, relating its improvisational nature to the spontaneity often found in rap. This connection allows him to blend different genres seamlessly within his work, creating a unique sound that appeals to a wide audience.
Musical Style
Fortune’s musical style is marked by a fusion of regional hip-hop traditions. His mixtape Beautiful Pimp showcases an effective combination of ratchet and trap music elements, reflecting the vibrant Atlanta hip-hop scene from which he emerged. This stylistic versatility enables him to explore different sounds while maintaining a distinct identity within the genre.
His foray into electronic music is evident in his Small VVorld EP, produced with contributions from U.K. electronic artist Four Tet. This experimentation highlights Fortune’s willingness to push boundaries and evolve artistically while remaining rooted in hip-hop culture.
Discography
Albums
- Jerome Raheem Fortune (2016)
- Freek (2020)
EPs
- The Air Mattress (2011)
- Voyeur (with Childish Major) (2012)
- Beautiful Pimp II (2014)
- Drive, Thighs, & Lies (with Dun Deal) (2014)
- Aye(with OG Maco) (2015)
- Toro y Rome Vol.1 (with Toro y Moi) (2018)
Mixtapes
- Lolo (2012)
- Beautiful Pimp (2013)
- Small VVorld (2014)
- LoloU (2015)
- Vvorldvvide Pimpsation (2016)
- Banned by Kaytranada (2024)
Collaborations
The collaborative spirit inherent in hip-hop is reflected in Fortune’s extensive list of partnerships with other artists:
- “Stripes” (with Gucci Mane & Bankroll Fresh) (2014)
- “Hazey” (with Glass Animals) (2014)
- “Drop That Ass on the Ground Like Some Change” (with Ethereal & Relly Jade)
- “Rollin’”(with Brenmar & Lil Uzi Vert) (2014)
- “Lights Low”(with Four Tet) (2014)
- “Men of Glass”(with Sevdaliza) (2015)
- “No Ma’am”(with IloveMakonnen & Rich the Kid) (2016)
- “Buried”(with What So Not) (2016)
- “Leave It”(with ƱZ) (2018)
- “Dr Feel Right”(with Josh Baker & the Egyptian Lover) (2025)
Conclusion
Rome Fortune stands out as an innovative artist who skillfully blends various musical genres while maintaining deep roots in hip-hop culture. From his early beginnings influenced by family musicians to becoming a prominent figure within Atlanta’s vibrant music scene, his journey reflects resilience and creativity. With several successful projects under his belt and collaborations with numerous artists, Fortune continues to evolve artistically while impacting fans across different musical landscapes.
The anticipation surrounding his future releases indicates that Rome Fortune will remain an influential voice within hip-hop for years to come. His ability to adapt and explore new sounds ensures that he will continue to engage listeners and push the boundaries of contemporary rap.
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