Who Is Cordae? Grammy-nominated rapper and Naomi Osaka’s ex boyfriend

Dubai: Yesterday on January 6, Tennis champion Naomi Osaka confirmed her break-up with her rapper boyfriend Cordae on Instagram. But he is far from a non-entity -- Cordae's a Grammy-nominated artist who has collaborated with heavyweights such as Anderson .Paak and Chance the Rapper.

His debut studio album, The Lost Boy (2019), wasn’t just a splash; it was a pop-cultural touchstone, earning two Grammy nods and showcasing hits such as “RNP” and “Bad Idea.”

By the time he dropped his second album, From a Birds Eye View (2022), Cordae had cemented his place as one of hip-hop’s brightest stars, blending introspection with genre-defying beats.

But Cordae’s journey didn’t start in glitzy studios or award shows. Born Cordae Amari Brooks on August 26, 1997, in North Carolina, and raised in Maryland, he developed a passion for music early on. Briefly attending Towson University, he made the bold move to drop out of college and chase his dreams.

According to reports, he initially released music under the name Entendre and was put on the music map when his remixes of classics like Eminem’s "My Name Is," proved to be a hit. His time with the YBN collective propelled him further into the spotlight.

By 2020, Cordae had dropped the "YBN" prefix, signaling his evolution as a solo artist. Tackling themes of personal growth, systemic issues, and resilience, his music resonated deeply with fans and critics alike. Industry respect? He’s got it in spades.

Cordae’s personal life also played a significant role in his public profile. His relationship with tennis superstar Naomi Osaka began in 2019, and the pair were often celebrated as a power couple merging the worlds of sports and music.

In 2023, they welcomed their daughter, Shai. However, they called time on it yesterday.

"Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship," she wrote, adding, "There’s no bad blood at all." Osaka praised Cordae, calling him "a great person and an awesome dad," showcasing the maturity and respect that defined their split.

Beyond his personal life, Cordae is a force for change. He’s been vocal about social justice issues, participating in Black Lives Matter protests and advocating for racial equality through both his music and actions.

So while the headlines may currently focus on his breakup, don’t get it twisted: Cordae isn’t riding anyone’s coattails or tennis skirts.