DRAM

Shelley Marshaun Massenburg-Smith, known professionally as DRAM, is an American rapper and singer. Born in Landstuhl, West Germany, and raised in Hampton, Virginia, DRAM found his footing in music with a quirky, soulful blend of hip-hop, R&B, and pop. He broke through in 2016 with the infectious single "Broccoli" featuring Lil Yachty, which peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Diamond certification. His debut album, Big Baby DRAM, followed in October 2016 on Atlantic Records, cementing his place as a distinctive voice in contemporary music.

DRAM's style is playful yet heartfelt, often mixing humorous ad-libs with smooth melodies. He has collaborated with artists like Erykah Badu and A$AP Rocky, and in 2019 released his second album, Shelley FKA DRAM, which delved into more introspective themes. Known for his energetic live shows and viral moments, DRAM continues to evolve as an artist, keeping fans engaged with new music and collaborations. [edit]

DRAM was born on August 3, 1988, in Landstuhl, West Germany, where his mother was stationed with the U.S. military. The family later settled in Hampton, Virginia, where DRAM spent most of his childhood. Growing up in a military household meant frequent moves, but Hampton became his anchor. He was drawn to music early, influenced by the gospel sounds of his church and the hip-hop and R&B that filled his neighborhood.

In his teens, DRAM began experimenting with music, learning to produce and write his own tracks. He attended Virginia State University, where he studied music and honed his craft. After college, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue music full-time, working odd jobs while recording in makeshift studios. He released his debut EP in March 2015, which caught the attention of Atlantic Records, leading to a record deal in July 2015. That EP set the stage for his breakout single, "Broccoli," which dropped in early 2016 and quickly went viral. [edit]

DRAM's big break came with "Broccoli" in 2016. The song's catchy hook and playful vibe made it a summer anthem, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and eventually going Diamond. His debut album, Big Baby DRAM, dropped in October 2016 and featured tracks like "Gilligan" and "Cash Machine." The album received critical acclaim and landed on several year-end lists.

In the following years, DRAM kept busy with collaborations and singles. He worked with Erykah Badu on "Education" and A$AP Rocky on "Left, Right." In 2019, he released his second album, Shelley FKA DRAM, which showed a more vulnerable side. He also experimented with funk and soul on tracks like "The Lay Down" featuring H.E.R. and WATT. DRAM has performed at major festivals including Coachella and Lollapalooza, and his music has been featured in commercials and soundtracks. As of 2026, he continues to release new music and collaborate across genres, maintaining a loyal fan base. [edit]

DRAM is known for his vibrant personality, often seen wearing colorful outfits and flashing a wide smile. His music videos are playful and visually striking, matching his energetic persona. Fans appreciate his authenticity and his ability to blend humor with genuine emotion. He has built a reputation as a live performer who connects with the crowd, often bringing fans on stage. His social media presence is characterized by humorous posts and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his life, which endear him to followers. [edit]

DRAM's fanbase is a vibrant, informal community that thrives on his energetic personality and genre-blending music. Known for his colorful fashion and infectious smile, DRAM has cultivated a following that appreciates his authenticity and humor. Fans often bond over his signature dance moves, like the viral 'Broccoli' dance, and his playful social media presence. While the fanbase has no formal name, it is a dedicated group that shows up for his live shows, where DRAM is known to bring fans on stage, creating memorable, interactive experiences. His music videos, filled with quirky visuals, further endear him to a community that values creativity and joy.

In the realm of global fame, DRAM is currently evaluated by iFANN's Global Fame Engine but does not hold a placement in the published rankings. This means he is not among the Global Top 1,000 or any Top-100 scope list, yet his impact is undeniable. His Diamond-certified hit 'Broccoli' and his debut album have cemented his status as a distinctive voice in music, and his consistent releases and touring have built a sustainable career. While he may not top global fame charts, his influence is felt across social media, streaming platforms, and live performances, where his devoted fanbase ensures his music remains a vibrant part of the cultural landscape.[edit]

DRAM's stage name stands for 'Does Real Ass Music.' He briefly went by Shelley FKA DRAM before reverting to DRAM. Known for his signature dance moves, especially the 'Broccoli' dance that became a viral challenge, DRAM once performed a freestyle on the 'Sway in the Morning' radio show that impressed fans with his off-the-cuff lyricism. A fan of anime, he has referenced it in his music. In 2017, he released a holiday EP titled That's a Girls Name .

One legendary moment fans still talk about is his 2016 performance at Bonnaroo, where he brought a fan on stage to dance, creating an impromptu moment that became a viral highlight. Another story from his rise: during a tour stop in Atlanta, he surprised the crowd by jumping into the pit mid-song, a move that has become part of his lore. These moments, shared across social media, have solidified his reputation as a performer who truly connects with his audience.[edit]

DRAM's mother served in the U.S. military, and he has spoken about the influence of his upbringing in a military family. He has kept details about his father and siblings largely private. As of now, DRAM is not publicly known to have a spouse or children. He has mentioned in interviews that his mother supported his musical ambitions from an early age. [edit]

DRAM has collaborated with a range of artists, including Lil Yachty, Erykah Badu, A$AP Rocky, H.E.R., and WATT. He has also worked with producers like J. White Did It. His music has been featured in films and TV shows, and he has performed at major festivals alongside acts like Kendrick Lamar and Chance the Rapper. [edit]

DRAM has kept his personal life largely out of the spotlight. There is little public information about his dating history. As of 2026, he appears to be single, focusing on his music career. He has not been linked to any high-profile relationships, and he prefers to keep his private life separate from his public persona. [edit]

iFANN currently estimates DRAM's net worth at $4 Million. His primary income comes from music sales, streaming royalties, and live performances. The Diamond certification of 'Broccoli' has contributed significantly to his earnings. He also earns from merchandise sales and brand partnerships. While not among the wealthiest in hip-hop, DRAM has built a sustainable career through consistent releases and touring.[edit]