Mystikal
Mystikal | |
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 Mystikal in 2016 | |
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| Birth name | Michael Lawrence Tyler |
| Born | September 22, 1970 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
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Michael Lawrence Tyler[1] (born September 22, 1970), is an American former rapper, actor and convicted rapist. He is better known by his stage name Mystikal. He was best known for his energetic, raspy vocal delivery and Southern rap style. Born on September 22, 1970, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Mystikal began his career in the early 1990s and became one of the most prominent figures in the Southern hip-hop scene, particularly through his association with Master P's No Limit Records.
Early Career and Rise to Fame
Mystikal released his debut self-titled album in 1994 under Big Boy Records. However, his breakthrough came with his 1995 album, Mind of Mystikal, which was re-released after he signed with Jive Records. His success grew after joining No Limit Records, where albums like Unpredictable (1997) and Ghetto Fabulous (1998)[2] brought him mainstream attention. His 2000 album Let’s Get Ready topped the Billboard 200 and included his biggest hit, "Shake Ya Ass," which earned him commercial success. Another notable album, Tarantula (2001), received Grammy nominations and was certified platinum.
Legal Troubles and Hiatus
Mystikal’s career has been marked by significant legal challenges.[3] In 2004, he was sentenced to six years in prison for sexual battery and extortion. After his release in 2010, he made a comeback with new music, but his career was again interrupted by additional legal issues,[4] including a 2017 arrest on charges of first-degree rape and second-degree kidnapping,[5] for which he was released on bail in 2019.[6]
From July 30, 2022 until June 2026, Tyler has been held in Ascension Parish without bond on charges of rape and domestic abuse. On March 17, 2026, Tyler entered a guilty plea to rape charges.[7]
On June 16, 2026, Tyler was sentenced to 20 years in prison.[8]
References
- ↑ "Who is rapper Mystikal?". The US Sun. 1 August 2022. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ Salaam, Mtume (1 March 1999). "Mystikal, Ghetto Fabulous (Jive/No Limit)". OffBeat Magazine. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ "Rapper Mystikal breaks silence on dropped rape charge". AP News. 15 April 2021. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ Mitchell, David (7 September 2022). "Mystikal, New Orleans-born rapper, indicted on first-degree rape, could face life sentence". The Advocate. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ Burks, Tosten (19 December 2017). "Mystikal Pleads Not Guilty to Rape and Kidnapping". Billboard. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ "Mystikal Pleads Not Guilty To Rape, Drug & False Imprisonment Charges". iHeart. Retrieved 13 September 2024.
- ↑ "Mystikal Enters Guilty Plea for Third-Degree Rape Charge Tied to 2022 Arrest". Rolling Stone. Retrieved March 21, 2026.
- ↑ "Rapper Mystikal sentenced to 20 years in Louisiana rape case". CNN. Retrieved June 25, 2026.