Hoolie Gu, born Rayshawn Martinez, on August 18th 1990, is a rapper, actor, and CEO from Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY. Beginning his musical career in 2010 with the single ‘Money Chasers’, Hoolie Gu began rapping to overcome financial hardships. Shortly after, he went on a hiatus from the music industry to focus on fatherhood.
In 2013, the Brooklyn native began performing in showcases throughout New York City. The following year, the autodidactic artist developed a skill for recording and editing music videos. He shot and produced his first two music videos, ‘Burn’ and ‘OG Hoolie Gu’ in 2014.
In 2015, Hoolie Gu released his first mixtape, ‘Only F**kk With Us’, on Soundcloud with fellow rapper, Bhunky. He collaborated with other artists such as 2 Milly, Rico Recklezz, Bam Vito, and many others. Following the success of 2 Milly’s single, ‘Milly Rock’, Hoolie Gu accompanied 2 Milly on tour in early 2016. While on tour, Gu learned the business in and out. He began making significant connections with music executives and artists alike. Later that year, he performed as the opening act for Chief Keef’s Brooklyn Bowl concert. Subsequently, the dynamic artist was granted the opportunity to perform alongside Chief Keef for the Two Zero One Seven tour in February 2017.
Now as a business executive, Gu serves as the CEO of his independent record label, Hoolie Records. He is also the founder of his recording studio, Sturdy Sound Studios, and owner of the rental car company and real estate business, MotorSport Luxury and S&M Development Group, LLC.
Aside from music, the multi-faceted entertainer also has acting chops. As a starring character in the YouTube series ‘Da Brooklyn Way’ the triple threat shows no signs of slowing down. The film star often credits his tumultuous upbringing as inspiration towards his acting and musical endeavors.
Hoolie Gu is set to release his debut EP, ‘Look at Me Now’ across all social media platforms in July 2018. The first single from the EP ‘Make It or Take It’ will be released on June 26th, 2018. The enterprising visionary is also releasing a compilation album titled ‘The Best of Hoolie Gu Vol. 1, 2, & 3’, which will be a collection of songs tracing the artists’ growth throughout his career.
The self proclaimed “Tupac, or GuPac of his generation” hopes to give back to his community by building recreational centers and providing resources to inner-city youth. Through these efforts, the philanthropist hopes to lower the crime rate and inspire children to follow their dreams and beyond.