At just 22 years old, NLE Choppa has already done what many artists twice his age only dream of—built a solid music career, started venturing into Hollywood, and developed his own business ventures, all while remaining unapologetically himself.
On a recent episode of Million Dollaz Worth of Game, the Memphis rapper sat down with hosts Gillie Da King and Wallo to reflect on his rapid rise, spiritual journey, and the bigger picture he’s chasing beyond the charts.
“I’ve been in the game for a minute, but I’m just getting started,” Choppa says, addressing how he’s maintained relevance while many of his peers have faded. He credits his longevity to long-term vision and faith in God. “You gotta have that 5- to 10-year plan, not just 15 minutes of fame.”
That mindset helped him pivot when he lost his Instagram account with over 3.7 million followers. Rather than panic, he diversified his digital presence and leaned further into the real-life connections that keep his fan base strong.
A Shift in Sound and Spirit
Choppa’s artistic evolution hasn’t come without criticism. The rapper, once known for aggressive, street-oriented tracks, has faced backlash for softening his image and message. But the shift was personal—and necessary. After losing his grandfather and several close friends to street violence in January of last year, Choppa began rethinking his path. “Going to funerals, sitting next to mothers who lost their sons… that changes you,” he shares. “That’s when I knew I couldn’t glorify the same lifestyle that’s destroying us.”
He now prioritizes prayer, self-reflection, and intuitive decision-making, using his platform to inspire rather than impress. “I had to stop needing validation and start listening to myself,” he says.
Entering Hollywood
Choppa’s love for art didn’t stop with music. He recently wrapped his first full-length film, Black Heat, starring alongside Jason Mitchell. The opportunity came through a family connection, and since then, acting heavyweight Ving Rhames has tapped him for several roles after spotting his charisma on YouTube.
Despite bypassing traditional auditions early on, Choppa earned his place on set. He prepares for roles by building out characters’ backstories and even improvises lines. “Acting feels like an extension of my creativity—it’s all storytelling.”
DIY Approach & Creative Control
Whether in music or movies, Choppa stays hands-on. He’s invested over $1.2 million of his own money into film projects, including shorts like Nightmare on Cottonwood and The Watch, inspired by hip-hop legends like Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. His strategy: drop short films on YouTube to build buzz and release full features through streaming platforms to monetize the movement.
In the booth, he’s equally in control. Rather than chase big-name producers, he self-produces much of his work and carefully curates collaborations. “I’d rather create something authentic than force a feature,” he says.
Business & Balance
Outside of entertainment, Choppa is building a luxury, Black-owned fashion brand and continues to perform live—but on his terms. “I’m selective with shows. I’ve got to protect my peace,” he explains.
He’s grateful for the support of his family, especially his mother, known affectionately as Mama Choppa. “She keeps me grounded,” he says.
Wisdom Beyond His Years
Throughout the episode, Wallo and Gillie highlight Choppa’s maturity and vision, encouraging his mission to break generational cycles and reach youth before it’s too late. Choppa is fully aware of the weight he carries. “There’s a point of no return for a lot of young people out here. I want to catch them before they get there.”
At 22, NLE Choppa is more than a rapper. He’s an actor, entrepreneur, and spiritual seeker—building an empire with purpose. And as he says himself, “I’m not in my prime yet—I’m still on the journey.”
