Montana of 300: Taking a Look at the Career of the Powerhouse of Rap

Walter Anthony Bradford, known professionally as Montana of 300, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter who has made a significant impact on the music scene. Born on March 3, 1989, in Chicago, Illinois, he emerged as a strong presence in the industry with his debut studio album “Fire in the Church,” released on May 20, 2016. His unique moniker is a blend of his favorite rapper’s name, Tony Montana, from the film “Scarface,” and the 300 Spartans, symbolizing strength and unity.

Hailing from a city known for its vibrant hip-hop scene, Montana of 300 rose to prominence with his raw lyrics and versatile flow that resonates with the gritty reality of Chicago’s streets. The artist gained a sweeping online following after his “Chiraq (Remix)” went viral, showcasing his potent lyrical skills. His work often reflects his personal experiences and societal observations, which allows him to connect with a wide audience.

Montana of 300 is not only celebrated for his musical talents but also for his independent approach to his career. By leveraging social media platforms, like Instagram and Twitter, he has cultivated a strong fanbase, sharing aspects of his work and life with more than half a million followers. His continued relevance in the music industry can be attributed to his relentless work ethic and adaptability, securing his spot as not just a rapper from Chicago, but as an artist that has left an indelible mark on the genre.

Early Life

Walter Anthony Bradford, better known by his stage name Montana of 300, was born into challenging circumstances that significantly shaped his musical career.

Rise to Fame

Bradford began expressing himself through music in his early teens, amidst a tumultuous family life in Chicago. In 2008, his journey in the music industry began to gain traction as he started to make a name for himself in the rap scene. His dedication to his craft and his ability to convey his life experiences through his music resonated with many, contributing to his rising fame.

Influences

Heavily influenced by iconic rappers like DMX and Lil Wayne, Bradford’s style developed into a unique blend that captured the raw emotions of his personal struggles and the influences of his rap idols. His father’s absence in his life had a profound impact, further fueling his expressive lyrics and the authenticity that would come to define his career.

Musical Career

Montana of 300’s musical journey is marked by a robust body of work including albums, notable collaborations, and popular remixes. His approach combines elements of drill and trap music, which has garnered a dedicated fan base and significant success metrics, particularly in the realm of online video streaming.

Debut Album

Montana of 300 made his official entrance into the music scene with his debut studio album, “Fire in the Church,” released on May 20, 2016. Before this, he had built considerable momentum with the 2014 mixtape “Cursed with a Blessing.”

Notable Collaborations

He has collaborated with artist Talley of 300 among others. The group known as “300” includes associates like J Real and No Fatigue, who have appeared on tracks together, showcasing a cohesive dynamic within the Chicago rap scene.

Hit Singles and Remixes

Montana of 300 is known for his hit singles and a series of remixes that display his lyrical prowess. These tracks often feature his rapid-fire flows and have cemented his reputation in the industry.

Style and Genre

He is a rapper and songwriter, often categorized within drill music, a sub-genre of trap. His music is characterized by its energetic delivery and complex wordplay, appealing to fans looking for a raw and authentic sound.

Success Metrics

Montana of 300 has seen success through various metrics, particularly online streaming and views on music videos. His fans actively engage with his content, signaling a successful penetration into the competitive digital music market.

Business Ventures

Montana of 300’s entrepreneurial spirit is exemplified through his independent record label and branded merchandise. These ventures highlight his multifaceted approach to building a business in the music industry.

Fly Guy Entertainment

Montana of 300 co-founded Fly Guy Entertainment (FGE), an independent record label that serves as a platform for his music and that of other associated artists. Operating outside the traditional music industry framework, FGE showcases Montana of 300’s commitment to retaining creative control and ownership over his work.

Merchandise and Branding

An extension of his brand is Montana of 300’s range of merchandise. This includes a variety of products, such as clothing and accessories, which often feature his distinctive logo. A notable collaboration was with Air Jordan; this partnership infused his brand into the sneaker culture, enhancing both visibility and credibility.

Personal Life

Montana of 300, born Walter Anthony Bradford, navigates his personal life with a focus on family and personal interests. He maintains a private presence when it comes to intimate details, yet it’s known that fatherhood plays a significant role in his life.

Fatherhood

Montana of 300 values his role as a father deeply. Despite the challenges he faced growing up, including being exposed to environments involving alcohol use, he has taken a different path in his own journey as a parent. He sees fatherhood as a pivotal aspect of his identity and strives to set a positive example.

Interests and Hobbies

Outside of music, Montana of 300’s interests and hobbies help balance his busy life. His hobbies are less documented but are understood to be integral to his work-life balance.

Discography

Montana of 300 has made a significant impact in the rap industry with his notable releases, including his debut studio album and a series of mixtapes that have showcased his lyrical prowess and ability to blend different rap styles.

Studio Albums

• 2016: Fire in the Church – Montana of 300’s debut studio album that was released on May 20, 2016. The album is recognized for its lyrical content and hard-hitting beats

Mixtapes

• 2014: Cursed with a Blessing – This mixtape features the raw talent of Montana of 300 and includes some of his earlier hits that garnered attention
• 2015: Gunz n Roses – In collaboration with Talley of 300, this mixtape continued to build Montana of 300’s reputation for energetic and potent lyrical performances
• 2017: Don’t Doubt the God – Further establishing his career, Montana of 300 delivered this mixtape with his characteristic blend of introspection and bravado

Impact and Legacy

Montana of 300 has carved out a significant niche within the hip-hop community, leveraging his lyrical prowess and unique sound to influence peers and captivate fans. His adept fusion of trap, R&B, and drill beats has not only garnered a strong following but also affected the way other artists approach the genre.

Influence on Other Artists

Montana of 300’s dedication to his craft and innovative take on music have made him an inspirational figure amongst his contemporaries. Emerging rappers often cite his intense lyricism and distinctive remixes as a benchmark for success in the industry. By incorporating religious and philosophical subtexts in his work, he has widened the thematic scope for hip-hop narratives, influencing a generation of artists to explore deeper topics.

Presence in Media

With the advancement of online platforms, Montana of 300 has optimized his presence in media through a robust YouTube channel, which showcases his music videos and has significantly amplified his reach. His video remixed songs, like “Chiraq” and “Try Me,” have catalyzed his popularity, branching out beyond traditional rap listeners to a diverse audience. The visual and sonic elements in his videos have become cornerstones of his brand, contributing to his legacy as an independent artist who’s achieved success without major label backing.

Future Projects

Montana of 300 is gearing up for new ventures in his musical career, focusing on delivering content that showcases his evolution as an artist.

Upcoming Works

• Studio Endeavors: The artist’s future projects are expected to be produced with an emphasis on lyrical growth and expanding his musical palette. The works will likely be recorded in professional studios, ensuring high-quality sound and production values
• Collaborations: Potential collaborations with other artists and producers could be on the horizon, providing a platform for creative synergy and fresh sounds
• Release Platforms: Montana of 300 may utilize various platforms for releasing his upcoming works, including streaming services and digital downloads, ensuring his music reaches a broad audience efficiently