Key Glock

Markeyvius LaShun Cathey, known as Key Glock, is an American rapper, songwriter, and record producer from Memphis, Tennessee. Born on August 3, 1997, he is the cousin of the late Memphis rapper Young Dolph. Key Glock signed with Dolph's label Paper Route Empire and released his commercial mixtape Glock Season in 2017. His debut studio album Yellow Tape (2020) peaked at number 14 on the Billboard 200 and went gold. The follow-up, Yellow Tape 2 (2021), reached number 7 and featured the multi-platinum single "Ambition for Cash" as well as "Proud," which became his first Billboard Hot 100 entry after Dolph's death. His third album Glockoma 2 (2023) produced the sleeper hit "Let's Go," his second Hot 100 appearance. Across his career, Key Glock has released multiple mixtapes and albums, building a reputation for his gritty, confident flow and streetwise lyrics. He continues to tour and release music, solidifying his place in the Memphis rap scene. [edit]

Key Glock grew up in South Memphis, raised by his grandmother and aunt after his mother was sent to prison when he was 20 months old. His father was mostly absent. He attended local schools and found music as an escape from a turbulent home life. At 18, he was charged with three counts of aggravated assault related to a shooting, but he channeled his energy into rap. His cousin Young Dolph was already a rising star in Memphis, and Glock began taking music seriously around 2016, recording early tracks that eventually caught Dolph's attention. [edit]

In 2017, Key Glock released his commercial mixtape Glock Season on Young Dolph's Paper Route Empire label, establishing his presence in the Memphis rap scene. His debut studio album Yellow Tape arrived in 2020, peaking at number 14 on the Billboard 200 and earning gold certification from the RIAA. The 2021 sequel Yellow Tape 2 climbed to number 7 and included the multi-platinum single "Ambition for Cash." Following Young Dolph's death in November 2021, the track "Proud" became Glock's first entry on the Billboard Hot 100. His 2023 album Glockoma 2 produced "Let's Go," which became his second Hot 100 hit. He continues to tour extensively and release new music, maintaining a steady output of singles and collaborations. [edit]

Key Glock projects a confident, streetwise persona through his music and public appearances. His style blends trap beats with aggressive delivery and lyrics about street life, success, and loss. He often wears designer streetwear, chains, and signature dreadlocks. Fans, sometimes called "Glock Gang," appreciate his authenticity and loyalty to his Memphis roots. On social media, he mixes promotional posts with glimpses of his lifestyle and tributes to Young Dolph. Media outlets describe him as a key figure in the modern Memphis rap resurgence. [edit]

Key Glock's audience is defined by a fierce, organic loyalty rooted in the legacy of Young Dolph and the unyielding identity of the Paper Route Empire. While often referred to generally as the "Glock Gang," his inner circle operates under the specific moniker GLiZOCK, a term prominently displayed on his social media that signals a direct line to his most dedicated supporters. This community does not rely on formalized campaigns or organized charity drives; instead, their influence manifests through massive streaming numbers and a cultural devotion that treats every release as a continuation of the late rapper's mission. The bond between artist and fan is characterized by a shared resilience, where listeners view albums like Project X not just as music, but as spiritual artifacts preserving the Memphis sound against all odds. Recent interactions show Glock engaging directly with critics, reinforcing an authentic persona that fans deeply respect rather than blindly worship. Despite this robust digital presence and headlining slots at major festivals like Wave Fest, iFANN's Global Fame Engine has evaluated Key Glock without assigning him a placement in the published rankings. He currently holds no position within the Global Top 1,000 or any Top-100 scope list, indicating a status of high regional and genre-specific renown that has yet to translate into a quantified global ranking tier.[edit]

His stage name is a clever play on his surname and the firearm, matching the iconic glock tattoo on his face. At age 18, he faced three counts of aggravated assault charges, though he was never convicted. An avid Memphis Grizzlies supporter, he frequently weaves references to the team into his lyrics. His pet pit bull is named Dolph, serving as a living tribute to his late cousin. In interviews, he admitted to listening to his own tracks in the car to build hype before stepping on stage. A defining moment in his recent lore occurred with the release of Project X, which critics hailed as a return to form and a reflection of his leadership of the empire. Fans also celebrate his headline performance at Wave Fest alongside Bossman Dlow, marking his transition from a regional icon to a national festival headliner. Another viral chapter involves a dispute where he publicly challenged an online critic with a sharp "WHO?!" response, cementing his reputation for refusing intimidation. These events combine with the enduring story of the Dum and Dummer collaborations to form a narrative of survival and sustained dominance.[edit]

Key Glock's mother, Tameika Cathey, was sentenced to 15 years in prison when he was 20 months old; he visited her occasionally with his grandmother. His father was largely absent from his life. He was raised by his grandmother and aunt in South Memphis. His cousin Young Dolph was a major influence and mentor, signing him to Paper Route Empire. Glock has no publicly known siblings or children. As of 2026, he lives in the Memphis area and keeps his personal life private. [edit]

Key Glock is closely associated with his cousin Young Dolph, who signed him to Paper Route Empire and mentored him. He frequently collaborates with other Paper Route Empire artists such as Jay Fizzle and Snupe Bandz. Producers like BandPlay and Tay Keith have contributed to his sound. He has also worked with rappers including Lil Baby and Moneybagg Yo. [edit]

Key Glock has kept his romantic life largely out of the public eye. As of 2026, he is reportedly single with no publicly confirmed relationships, engagements, or marriages. He has not been linked to any high-profile partners in the media. His focus appears to be on his music career and maintaining the legacy of Paper Route Empire. [edit]

Per iFANN's editorial analysis, Key Glock's net worth stands at $5 Million as of 2026. His financial growth stems primarily from music sales, streaming royalties, touring revenue, and merchandise. The gold certification of Yellow Tape and the multi-platinum status of Ambition for Cash have provided substantial income streams. He continues to generate earnings through headlining tours and festival appearances across the United States. Unlike many peers in the industry, he has not publicly pursued major endorsement deals or real estate investments. His wealth has accumulated steadily since his 2020 breakout, driven by consistent album releases and a loyal fanbase that sustains his commercial viability.[edit]