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{{Infobox musical artist
{{Infobox musical artist
|name = French Montana
|name = French Montana
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|genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
|genre = [[Hip hop music|Hip hop]]
|occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]]
|occupation = [[Rapping|Rapper]]
|years_active = 2002-present
|years_active = 2002–present
|label = Cocaine City, [[Bad Boy Records|Bad Boy]], [[Maybach Music Group]], [[Interscope Records|Interscope]]
|label = Coke Boys, [[Bad Boy Records|Bad Boy]], [[Maybach Music Group]], [[Interscope Records|Interscope]]
|associated_acts = <!--PLEASE NOTE: If you are going to add to this list make sure that it is an artist who has formed a SIGNIFICANT part of French's career.-->Coke Boys, [[2 Chainz]], [[Sean Combs|Diddy]], [[Future (rapper)|Future]], [[Juicy J]], [[Max B]], [[Maybach Music Group]], [[Rick Ross]], [[Waka Flocka Flame]]
|associated_acts = <!--PLEASE NOTE: If you are going to add to this list make sure that it is an artist who has formed a SIGNIFICANT part of French's career.-->Coke Boys, [[Chinx Drugz]], [[Sean Combs|Diddy]], [[Juicy J]], [[Max B]], [[Rick Ross]], [[Waka Flocka Flame]]
|website = {{URL|http://www.frenchmontanamusic.com/}}
|website = {{URL|http://www.frenchmontanamusic.com/}}
}}
}}
<!-- Please do not alter title per [[WP:BEGINNING]]. -->
<!-- Please do not alter title per [[WP:BEGINNING]]. -->
'''Karim Kharbouch''' (born November 9, 1984) better known by his stage name '''French Montana''', is an American rapper born in Morocco.<ref name="Fmrjfanym">{{cite web|last=Letter |first=The |url=http://www.mideastdynasty.com/?p=2990 |title=French Montana recruits Jadakiss for a "New York Minute" |publisher=Mideastdynasty.com |date=May 31, 2011 |accessdate=January 22, 2013}}</ref><ref name=allhiphop/><ref>{{cite web|title=French Montana Reveals Nationality & Speaks On Bad Boy|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-5ZM9ngv4s |accessdate=March 7, 2013}}</ref> He is the founder and CEO of Cocaine City Records. In 2012, he signed a joint venture recording deal with [[Maybach Music Group]] and [[Bad Boy Records]]. Montana is known for his frequent collaborations with [[Max B]], and more recently with [[Rick Ross]] along with his group Coke Boys, which consists of rappers Chinx Drugz, Cheeze and Flip.
'''Karim Kharbouch''' (born November 9, 1984), known by his stage name '''French Montana''', is an American rapper born in Morocco.<ref name="Fmrjfanym">{{cite web|last=Letter |first=The |url=http://www.mideastdynasty.com/?p=2990 |title=French Montana recruits Jadakiss for a "New York Minute" |publisher=Mideastdynasty.com |date=May 31, 2011 |accessdate=January 22, 2013}}</ref><ref name=allhiphop/><ref>{{cite web|title=French Montana Reveals Nationality & Speaks On Bad Boy|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-5ZM9ngv4s |accessdate=March 7, 2013}}</ref> He is the founder and CEO of Cocaine City Records. In 2012, he signed a joint venture recording deal with [[Maybach Music Group]] and [[Bad Boy Records]]. Montana is known for his frequent collaborations with [[Max B]], and more recently with [[Rick Ross]] along with his group Coke Boys which includes rappers [[Chinx Drugz]], Cheeze, and Flip.


His debut album ''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' was released on May 21, 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/french-montana-s-excuse-my-french-pushed-back-again-news.4388.html |title=French Montana's "Excuse My French" Pushed Back Again |publisher=Hotnewhiphop.com |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref>
His debut album ''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' was released on May 21, 2013.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/french-montana-s-excuse-my-french-pushed-back-again-news.4388.html |title=French Montana's "Excuse My French" Pushed Back Again |publisher=Hotnewhiphop.com |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref>


==Early life==
==Early life==
French Montana was born Karim Kharbouch in 1984 in [[Rabat]], Morocco,<ref name="Hlfm">{{cite news|title=Hollywood Life - French Montana|url=http://hollywoodlife.com/celeb/french-montana/|accessdate=10 March 2013|newspaper=Hollywood Life}}</ref> where he lived for the first 12 years of his life. Growing up, he was consumed with playing football and rapping, describing them as his two favorite childhood hobbies.<ref name="Sdiwfm">{{cite web|url=http://stupiddope.com/2012/01/27/interview-french-montana/ |title=Stupid Dope interview with French Montana |publisher=Stupiddope.com |date=January 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>
French Montana was born Karim Kharbouch in 1984 in [[Rabat]], Morocco,<ref name="Hlfm">{{cite news|title=Hollywood Life - French Montana|url=http://hollywoodlife.com/celeb/french-montana/|accessdate=March 10, 2013|newspaper=Hollywood Life}}</ref> and was brought up at a family estate outside [[Casablanca]] where he lived for the first 13 years of his life.<ref name=fader>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/09/25/french-montana-homecoming/ |title=French Montana: Homecoming |publisher=The Fader |date=September 25, 2012 |accessdate=January 9, 2014}}</ref> His parents are both Moroccan, though he has some Somali ancestry on his mother's side as well.<ref name="Hlfm"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://nomadradio.co.uk/play/?show=17993 |title=French Montana telephone interview |publisher=Nomad Radio |date=December 20, 2009 |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref> Growing up, he was consumed with playing football and rapping, describing them as his two favorite childhood hobbies.<ref name="Sdiwfm">{{cite web|url=http://stupiddope.com/2012/01/27/interview-french-montana/ |title=Stupid Dope interview with French Montana |publisher=Stupiddope.com |date=January 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>


In 1996,<ref name="allhiphop.com">{{cite web |last=Mendez |first=Marisa |title=French Montana: Akon's Bullet |url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/features/archive/2009/08/11/21889445.aspx|date=August 11, 2009|accessdate=April 23, 2010}}</ref> at the age of 13, Kharbouch left Morocco with his mother, father Abdela and younger brother Zack for [[South Bronx]] in [[New York City]].<ref name=fader/> He learned English in the streets and in the Bronx high schools of Lehman and Roosevelt.<ref name=fader/> His father returned to Casablanca after two years.<ref name=fader/> His youngest brother, Ayoub, was born in America, after their father had departed.<ref name=fader/> His mother was on welfare.<ref name=fader/> The family income came from Karim.<ref name=fader/>
French is also often reported as being of partial Somali descent. Asked about the rumors during a phone-in interview with [[Nomad Radio]], a UK-based radio station, he indicated that both of his parents were Moroccan but that he has Somali ancestry as well.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://nomadradio.co.uk/play/?show=17993 |title=French Montana telephone interview |publisher=Nomad Radio |date=December 20, 2009 |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref><ref name="Hlfm"/>

In 1996, French immigrated with his parents and two younger brothers to the [[The Bronx|Bronx]] in [[New York City]].<ref name="allhiphop.com">{{cite web |last=Mendez |first=Marisa |title=French Montana: Akon's Bullet |url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/features/archive/2009/08/11/21889445.aspx|date=August 11, 2009|accessdate=April 23, 2010}}</ref>


==Music career==
==Music career==

===2002–2011: Cocaine City Records===
===2002–2011: Cocaine City Records===
In 2002, along with his friend, Cokeboy Los, French created a series of street-flavored mix tapes called 'Cocaine City' after drawing inspiration from the 'Smack' DVD series. Under the name Young French he used the DVDs as a means of showcasing his talent as an underground artist. To gain a broader fan base, French incorporated interviews with major artists, as well as some up and comers. The first edition in the series included [[Pee Wee Kirkland]] and [[Remy Ma]] alongside French himself among others. What started out as simply a medium for developing an audience quickly grew into one of the top-selling "street DVDs".<ref name=allhiphop>{{cite web|last=Mendez|first=Marisa|title=Reviews: Top 5 Dead or Alive: French Montana|url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/reviewsmusic/archive/2009/04/07/21329333.aspx|date=April 7, 2009|accessdate=April 23, 2010}}</ref><ref name="allhiphop.com"/><ref name="RapFix Live">{{cite web |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1680742/french-montana-xxl-freshman-cover.jhtml |title=French Montana Wasn't Gonna Do' XXL Freshman Cover |publisher=Mtv.com |date=March 8, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> The series ran for 8 years between 2002 and 2010, with a total of 14 editions being released.<ref name=Complex>{{cite web|last=Higgins|first=Keenan|title=Who Is French Montana?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/01/who-is-french-montana2#6|date=January 2, 2012|accessdate=March 26, 2012}}</ref>
In 2002, along with his friend, Cokeboy Los, French created a series of street-flavored mix tapes called 'Cocaine City' after drawing inspiration from the 'Smack' DVD series. Under the name Young French he used the DVDs as a means of showcasing his talent as an underground artist. To gain a broader fan base, French incorporated interviews with major artists, as well as some up and comers. The first edition in the series included [[Pee Wee Kirkland]] and [[Remy Ma]] alongside French himself among others. What started out as simply a medium for developing an audience quickly grew into one of the top-selling "street DVDs".<ref name=allhiphop>{{cite web|last=Mendez|first=Marisa|title=Reviews: Top 5 Dead or Alive: French Montana|url=http://allhiphop.com/stories/reviewsmusic/archive/2009/04/07/21329333.aspx|date=April 7, 2009|accessdate=April 23, 2010}}</ref><ref name="allhiphop.com"/><ref name="RapFix Live">{{cite web |url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1680742/french-montana-xxl-freshman-cover.jhtml |title=French Montana Wasn't Gonna Do' XXL Freshman Cover |publisher=Mtv.com |date=March 8, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> The series ran for 8 years between 2002 and 2010, with a total of 14 editions being released.<ref name=Complex>{{cite web|last=Higgins|first=Keenan|title=Who Is French Montana?|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2012/01/who-is-french-montana2#6|date=January 2, 2012|accessdate=March 26, 2012}}</ref>


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In 2009, French signed a deal with [[Akon]]'s [[Konvict Muzik]] record label. He later left the company in 2011 due to album delays.<ref>{{cite web|title=20 Rappers Who Almost Signed To Other Labels|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/07/20-rappers-who-almost-signed-to-other-labels/french-montana|publisher=Complex}}</ref> Montana was subsequently reportedly close to signing a deal with [[Rick Ross]]'s [[Maybach Music Group]] (MMG).<ref>[http://allhiphop.com/stories/rumor/archive/2011/05/05/22749991.aspx French Montana to Maybach Music?]{{dead link|date=January 2013}}</ref> There were also reports that he would join [[Kanye West]]'s [[GOOD Music]] label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harling |first=Danielle |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.17330/title.pusha-t-talks-good-music-compilation-french-montana-possibly-signing-to-good-music |title=Pusha T Talks G.O.O.D. Music Compilation, French Montana Possibly Signing To G.O.O.D. Music &#124; Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=HipHop DX |date=October 21, 2011 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>
Between 2003 and 2004, French was shot in the head as he was exiting a recording studio in New York. He was rushed to the hospital after the incident and survived. Describing the shooting as a possible assassination attempt, the artist was subsequently involved in a murder trial in which he was eventually found not guilty. Rumors began to swirl that he had received settlement money from the case, which he then used to start his rap career. However, French later dismissed these claims as false in an interview.<ref>[http://slumz.boxden.com/f87/french-montana-talks-record-deal-ross-akon-1678648/ French Montana Talks Record Deal, Ross & Akon]</ref>


===2011–present: Signing to Bad Boy and MMG, ''Excuse My French''===
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In 2009, French signed a deal with [[Akon]]'s [[Konvict Muzik]] record label. He later left the company in 2011 due to album delays.<ref>[http://www.ambitionsasamogul.com/2011/03/french-montana-left-konvict-music-guess.html ]{{dead link|date=January 2013}}</ref> Montana was subsequently reportedly close to signing a deal with [[Rick Ross]]'s [[Maybach Music Group]] (MMG).<ref>[http://allhiphop.com/stories/rumor/archive/2011/05/05/22749991.aspx French Montana to Maybach Music?]{{dead link|date=January 2013}}</ref> There were also reports that he would join [[Kanye West]]'s [[GOOD Music]] label.<ref>{{cite web|last=Harling |first=Danielle |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.17330/title.pusha-t-talks-good-music-compilation-french-montana-possibly-signing-to-good-music |title=Pusha T Talks G.O.O.D. Music Compilation, French Montana Possibly Signing To G.O.O.D. Music &#124; Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales |publisher=HipHop DX |date=October 21, 2011 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>
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In December 2011, French signed a record deal with [[P. Diddy]]'s [[Bad Boy Records]],<ref name="Fmoardwdbbl">{{cite web|url=http://thisbeatgoes.com/hip-hop-news/french-montana-officially-announces-record-deal-with-diddys-bad-boy-label/ |title=French Montana Officially Announces Record Deal with Diddy’s Bad Boy Label |publisher=Thisbeatgoes.com |date=January 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> as well as [[Interscope Records]].<ref>[http://www.interscope.com/frenchmontana Interscope - French Montana]{{dead link|date=September 2013}}</ref> According to French, of the many major labels that were courting him, Maybach Music Group would have been his second choice had he not signed with Bad Boy.<ref name="Hhdxfmsostbb">{{cite web|url=http://allhiphop.com/2012/01/04/hip-hop-rumors-french-montana-signed-joint-deal-with-bad-boy-and-mmg/ |title=Hip-Hop Rumors: French Montana Signed Joint Deal With Bad Boy AND MMG!!?? |publisher=AllHipHop.com |date=January 4, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> However, on January 2, 2012 while in the studio with [[Rick Ross]], French announced that he had signed a joint venture deal with Bad Boy Records and Maybach Music Group. Rick Ross and Diddy are set to executive produce his debut album.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vibe.com/posts/french-montana-and-rick-ross-celebrate-champagne-1996 |title=French Montana and Rick Ross Celebrate With Champagne From 1996 |publisher=Vibe.com |date=January 4, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>

===2011–present: Bad Boy Records; Maybach Music Group; debut album===
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In December 2011, French signed a record deal with [[P. Diddy]]'s [[Bad Boy Records]],<ref name="Fmoardwdbbl">{{cite web|url=http://thisbeatgoes.com/hip-hop-news/french-montana-officially-announces-record-deal-with-diddys-bad-boy-label/ |title=French Montana Officially Announces Record Deal with Diddy’s Bad Boy Label |publisher=Thisbeatgoes.com |date=January 27, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> as well as [[Interscope Records]].<ref>[http://www.interscope.com/frenchmontana Interscope - French Montana]</ref> According to French, of the many major labels that were courting him, Maybach Music Group would have been his second choice had he not signed with Bad Boy.<ref name="Hhdxfmsostbb">{{cite web|url=http://allhiphop.com/2012/01/04/hip-hop-rumors-french-montana-signed-joint-deal-with-bad-boy-and-mmg/ |title=Hip-Hop Rumors: French Montana Signed Joint Deal With Bad Boy AND MMG!!?? |publisher=AllHipHop.com |date=January 4, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> However, on January 2, 2012 while in the studio with [[Rick Ross]], French announced that he had signed a joint venture deal with Bad Boy Records and Maybach Music Group. Rick Ross and Diddy are set to executive produce his debut album.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vibe.com/posts/french-montana-and-rick-ross-celebrate-champagne-1996 |title=French Montana and Rick Ross Celebrate With Champagne From 1996 |publisher=Vibe.com |date=January 4, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>


French was featured on [[XXL (magazine)|XXL's Freshman Class]] of 2012 alongside [[Future (rapper)|Future]], [[Kid Ink]], [[Danny Brown (rapper)|Danny Brown]], [[Macklemore]], Don Trip, [[Hopsin]], [[Iggy Azalea]], [[Roscoe Dash]] and Bad Boy label mate [[MGK]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-freshman-2012/ |title=XXL Freshman Class of 2012 |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=January 3, 2013 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1680131/xxl-freshman-issue-french-montana-machine-gun-kelly.jhtml |title=XXL Freshman Class Includes French Montana, Machine Gun Kelly |publisher=Mtv.com |date=February 29, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> However, he later revealed to [[Sway Calloway]] on RapFix Live that he almost turned down the cover opportunity, feeling he "deserved it two years ago" and that he had surpassed the current crop of rap rookies.<ref name="RapFix Live"/><ref>{{cite web|author=Sydney Lace |url=http://allhiphop.com/2012/03/09/hip-hop-rumors-french-montana-almost-rejected-the-xxl-freshmen-cover/ |title=French Montana Almost Rejected the XXL Freshmen Cover! |publisher=Allhiphop.com |date=March 9, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>
French was featured on [[XXL (magazine)|XXL's Freshman Class]] of 2012 alongside [[Future (rapper)|Future]], [[Kid Ink]], [[Danny Brown (rapper)|Danny Brown]], [[Macklemore]], Don Trip, [[Hopsin]], [[Iggy Azalea]], [[Roscoe Dash]] and Bad Boy label mate [[MGK]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/xxl-freshman-2012/ |title=XXL Freshman Class of 2012 |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=January 3, 2013 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1680131/xxl-freshman-issue-french-montana-machine-gun-kelly.jhtml |title=XXL Freshman Class Includes French Montana, Machine Gun Kelly |publisher=Mtv.com |date=February 29, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> However, he later revealed to [[Sway Calloway]] on RapFix Live that he almost turned down the cover opportunity, feeling he "deserved it two years ago" and that he had surpassed the current crop of rap rookies.<ref name="RapFix Live"/><ref>{{cite web|author=Sydney Lace |url=http://allhiphop.com/2012/03/09/hip-hop-rumors-french-montana-almost-rejected-the-xxl-freshmen-cover/ |title=French Montana Almost Rejected the XXL Freshmen Cover! |publisher=Allhiphop.com |date=March 9, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref>


In October 2012, it was announced that French's debut album ''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' would be released on May 21, 2013. His mixtape ''[[Mac & Cheese 3]]'' was released shortly afterwards, on November 19, 2012.<ref name="www.hiphopdx.com">{{cite web |title=Mixtape Release Dates: Curren$y, French Montana, Fabolous, Los | url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21670/title.mixtape-release-dates-curreny-french-montana-fabolous-los |accessdate=October 29, 2012 }}</ref> French also plans to release a mixtape titled ''Medusa'' with fellow rapper Future.<ref>{{cite web | title = French Montana Calls 50 Cent A ‘Donkey,’ Announces New Tape With Future | url = http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/11/24/french-montana-50-cent-donkey-future/#more-64109 | accessdate = November 26, 2012 }}</ref> The second single is "[[Freaks (French Montana song)|Freaks]]", which features [[Nicki Minaj]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/01/check-out-the-artwork-for-french-montanas-next-single-freaks-featuring-nicki-minaj |title=Check Out the Artwork for French Montana's Next Single "Freaks" Featuring Nicki Minaj |publisher=Complex |date=January 24, 2013 |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref> He was featured in Issue #82 of [[The FADER]] and appeared on the cover.<ref>{{cite web|title=French Montana: Homecoming|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/09/25/french-montana-homecoming/}}</ref>
In October 2012, it was announced that French's debut album ''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' would be released on May 21, 2013. His mixtape ''[[Mac & Cheese 3]]'' was released shortly afterwards, on November 19, 2012.<ref name="www.hiphopdx.com">{{cite web |title=Mixtape Release Dates: Curren$y, French Montana, Fabolous, Los | url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21670/title.mixtape-release-dates-curreny-french-montana-fabolous-los |accessdate=October 29, 2012 }}</ref> French also announced plans to release a mixtape titled ''Medusa'' with fellow rapper Future in November 2012.<ref>{{cite web | title = French Montana Calls 50 Cent A ‘Donkey,’ Announces New Tape With Future | url = http://rapfix.mtv.com/2012/11/24/french-montana-50-cent-donkey-future/#more-64109 | accessdate = November 26, 2012 }}</ref> The second single from ''Excuse My French'' was, "[[Freaks (French Montana song)|Freaks]]" featuring [[Nicki Minaj]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/01/check-out-the-artwork-for-french-montanas-next-single-freaks-featuring-nicki-minaj |title=Check Out the Artwork for French Montana's Next Single "Freaks" Featuring Nicki Minaj |publisher=Complex |date=January 24, 2013 |accessdate=March 8, 2013}}</ref> He was featured in Issue #82 of [[The FADER]] and appeared on the cover.<ref>{{cite web|title=French Montana: Homecoming|url=http://www.thefader.com/2012/09/25/french-montana-homecoming/}}</ref> The third single would be "[[Ain't Worried About Nothin']]". Upon its release, ''Excuse My French'' was met with mixed reviews from music critics.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.metacritic.com/music/excuse-my-french/french-montana |title=Excuse My French Reviews |publisher=Metacritic |date= |accessdate=September 2, 2013}}</ref> It fared better commercially, debuting at number 4 on the [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] chart, with first-week sales of 56,000 copies in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.24121/title.hip-hop-album-sales-the-week-ending-5-26-2013|title=Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 5/26/2013|publisher=''HipHopDX'' |accessdate=May 29, 2013}}</ref>


On August 12, 2013, French Montana announced that his group/record label [[Coke Boys]], that includes rappers Chinx Drugz, Flip, Cheeze and [[Lil Durk]] are currently working on collaboration [[studio album]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) |url=http://allhiphop.com/2013/08/12/french-montana-says-coke-boys-working-on-studio-album/ |title=French Montana Says Coke Boys Crew Working On Studio Album |publisher=AllHipHop.com |date=August 12, 2013 |accessdate=September 2, 2013}}</ref> The group released a mixtape, ''Coke Boys 4'', in January 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xxlmag.com/rap-music/reviews/2014/01/french-montana-coke-boys-4-mixtape-review/ |title=French Montana Sticks To His Comfort Zone On 'Coke Boys 4' Mixtape - XXL |publisher=Xxlmag.com |date=December 9, 2013 |accessdate=January 9, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Dowling |first=Marcus K. |url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/album-reviews/id.2209/title.french-montana-coke-boys-4-mixtape- |title=French Montana - Coke Boys 4 (Mixtape) &#124; Read Hip Hop Reviews, Rap Reviews & Hip Hop Album Reviews |publisher=HipHop DX |date=January 4, 2014 |accessdate=January 9, 2014}}</ref> Following its release, in an interview with ''[[Rolling Stone]]'', Montana revealed that ''Mac & Cheese 4'' would be his second studio album, and the first single would be released within the next two months.<ref>{{cite web|author=By&nbsp;Sowmya Krishnamurthy |url=http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/french-montana-working-with-kanye-macklemore-and-rick-ross-20140108 |title=French Montana Working With Kanye, Macklemore and Rick Ross &#124; Music News |publisher=Rolling Stone |date= |accessdate=January 9, 2014}}</ref>
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===Influences===
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According to French, the rappers [[Tupac Shakur]], [[Nas]], [[Snoop Dogg]], [[The Notorious B.I.G]], [[50 Cent]], and the [[Wu-Tang Clan]] were among the hip hop artists that he listened to while growing up.<ref name="Smmm"/><ref name="Fmtigdbsamb">{{cite web|last=Shull |first=Zac |url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2012/02/06/qa-with-french-montana-talks-indie-grind-diddys-business-sense-max-b/ |title=French Montana: Talks Indie Grind, Diddy's Business Sense & Max B |publisher=Ballerstatus.com |date=February 6, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> He also considers himself a general music lover,<ref name="Fmtigdbsamb"/> and is an admirer of the work of singers [[Amy Winehouse]] and [[Adele]].<ref name="Smmm"/>


== Personal life ==
== Personal life ==
Montana speaks several languages including English, Arabic and French.<ref name="Smmm"/>
Montana speaks several languages including English, Arabic and French.<ref name="Smmm"/>


Between 2003 and 2004, French was shot in the head as he was exiting a recording studio in New York. He was taken to the hospital after the incident and survived.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slumz.boxden.com/f87/french-montana-talks-record-deal-ross-akon-1678648/ |title=French Montana Talks Record Deal, Ross & Akon |publisher=Slumz.boxden.com |date= |accessdate=September 2, 2013}}</ref>
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In 2007, French married Deen Kharbouch. The couple later separated.<ref name="Hlfm"/> He cites being a father as one of his driving inspirations.<ref name="Smmm">{{cite news|last=Peña|first=Loris|title=Monsieur Montana|url=http://statusmagonline.com/features/french-montana-monsieur-montana-august-2012-interview/|accessdate=10 March 2013|newspaper=STATUS Magazine|date=28 August 2012}}</ref> French also describes himself as passionate about fashion, purchasing designer wear from [[Versace]], [[Gucci]], [[Fendi]] and [[Louis Vuitton]].<ref name="Smmm"/>

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In 2007, Montana married Deen Kharbouch. They have one son, Kruz who was born in 2009. The couple later separated in 2012.<ref name="Hlfm"/> He cites being a father as one of his driving inspirations.<ref name="Smmm">{{cite news|last=Peña|first=Loris|title=Monsieur Montana|url=http://statusmagonline.com/features/french-montana-monsieur-montana-august-2012-interview/|accessdate=March 10, 2013|newspaper=STATUS Magazine|date=August 28, 2012}}</ref> French also describes himself as passionate about fashion, purchasing designer wear from [[Versace]], [[Gucci]], [[Fendi]] and [[Louis Vuitton]].<ref name="Smmm"/>

Montana is currently in an [[on-again, off-again relationship]] with rapper [[Trina]], who is signed to his Coke Boys record label.<ref>{{cite web|last=India |first=Lindsey |url=http://globalgrind.com/2013/08/10/cassie-diddy-trinia-french-montana-double-vacation-photos/ |title=Cassie & Diddy Vacation With French Montana & Trina (PHOTOS) |publisher=Global Grind |date=August 10, 2013 |accessdate=September 2, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Abravanel |first=Lesley |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/07/12/3497487/french-montana-trina-spotted-at.html |title=French Montana, Trina spotted at Hennessy event - People |publisher=MiamiHerald.com |date= |accessdate=January 9, 2014}}</ref>

⚫
==Influences==
⚫
According to French, the rappers [[Tupac Shakur]], [[Nas]], [[Snoop Dogg]], [[The Notorious B.I.G]], [[50 Cent]], and the [[Wu-Tang Clan]] were among the hip hop artists that he listened to while growing up.<ref name="Smmm"/><ref name="Fmtigdbsamb">{{cite web|last=Shull |first=Zac |url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2012/02/06/qa-with-french-montana-talks-indie-grind-diddys-business-sense-max-b/ |title=French Montana: Talks Indie Grind, Diddy's Business Sense & Max B |publisher=Ballerstatus.com |date=February 6, 2012 |accessdate=January 7, 2013}}</ref> He also considers himself a general music lover,<ref name="Fmtigdbsamb"/> and is an admirer of the work of singers [[Amy Winehouse]] and [[Adele]].<ref name="Smmm"/>


==Discography==
==Discography==
{{Main|French Montana discography}}
{{Main|French Montana discography}}
*''[[Mac & Cheese 3]]'' (2012)
;Studio albums
*''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' (2013)
*''[[Excuse My French (album)|Excuse My French]]'' (2013)


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{{French Montana}}
{{French Montana}}
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{{Bad Boy Records}}
{{Maybach Music Group}}
{{Maybach Music Group}}
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{{Bad boy}}


{{Persondata
{{Persondata
| NAME = Montana, French
| NAME = Kharbouch, Karim
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES =
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES = Montana, French
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = Musician, entrepreneur
| SHORT DESCRIPTION = Musician and entrepreneur
| DATE OF BIRTH = November 9, 1984
| DATE OF BIRTH = November 9, 1984
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Rabat, Morocco
| PLACE OF BIRTH = Rabat, Morocco
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| PLACE OF DEATH =
| PLACE OF DEATH =
}}
}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Montana, French}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Montana, French}}
[[Category:1984 births]]
[[Category:1984 births]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
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[[Category:American Muslims]]
[[Category:American people of Moroccan descent]]
[[Category:American people of Moroccan descent]]
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[[Category:American people of Somali descent]]
[[Category:East Coast hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:East Coast hip hop musicians]]
[[Category:Moroccan emigrants to the United States]]
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[[Category:Moroccan Muslims]]
[[Category:Moroccan rappers]]
[[Category:Moroccan people of Somali descent]]
[[Category:People from the Bronx]]
[[Category:People from the Bronx]]
[[Category:People from Rabat]]
[[Category:Rappers from New York City]]
[[Category:Rappers from New York City]]
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[[Category:American people of Somali descent]]

Revision as of 23:07, 14 January 2014

French Montana
Birth nameKarim Kharbouch[1]
Born (1984-11-09) November 9, 1984 (age 39)
Rabat, Morocco[2]
OriginSouth Bronx, New York, U.S.
GenresHip hop
OccupationRapper
Years active2002–present
LabelsCoke Boys, Bad Boy, Maybach Music Group, Interscope
Websitewww.frenchmontanamusic.com

Karim Kharbouch (born November 9, 1984), known by his stage name French Montana, is an American rapper born in Morocco.[3][4][5] He is the founder and CEO of Cocaine City Records. In 2012, he signed a joint venture recording deal with Maybach Music Group and Bad Boy Records. Montana is known for his frequent collaborations with Max B, and more recently with Rick Ross along with his group Coke Boys which includes rappers Chinx Drugz, Cheeze, and Flip.

His debut album Excuse My French was released on May 21, 2013.[6]

Early life

French Montana was born Karim Kharbouch in 1984 in Rabat, Morocco,[2] and was brought up at a family estate outside Casablanca where he lived for the first 13 years of his life.[7] His parents are both Moroccan, though he has some Somali ancestry on his mother's side as well.[2][8] Growing up, he was consumed with playing football and rapping, describing them as his two favorite childhood hobbies.[9]

In 1996,[10] at the age of 13, Kharbouch left Morocco with his mother, father Abdela and younger brother Zack for South Bronx in New York City.[7] He learned English in the streets and in the Bronx high schools of Lehman and Roosevelt.[7] His father returned to Casablanca after two years.[7] His youngest brother, Ayoub, was born in America, after their father had departed.[7] His mother was on welfare.[7] The family income came from Karim.[7]

Music career

2002–2011: Cocaine City Records

In 2002, along with his friend, Cokeboy Los, French created a series of street-flavored mix tapes called 'Cocaine City' after drawing inspiration from the 'Smack' DVD series. Under the name Young French he used the DVDs as a means of showcasing his talent as an underground artist. To gain a broader fan base, French incorporated interviews with major artists, as well as some up and comers. The first edition in the series included Pee Wee Kirkland and Remy Ma alongside French himself among others. What started out as simply a medium for developing an audience quickly grew into one of the top-selling "street DVDs".[4][10][11] The series ran for 8 years between 2002 and 2010, with a total of 14 editions being released.[12]

In 2009, French signed a deal with Akon's Konvict Muzik record label. He later left the company in 2011 due to album delays.[13] Montana was subsequently reportedly close to signing a deal with Rick Ross's Maybach Music Group (MMG).[14] There were also reports that he would join Kanye West's GOOD Music label.[15]

2011–present: Signing to Bad Boy and MMG, Excuse My French

In December 2011, French signed a record deal with P. Diddy's Bad Boy Records,[16] as well as Interscope Records.[17] According to French, of the many major labels that were courting him, Maybach Music Group would have been his second choice had he not signed with Bad Boy.[18] However, on January 2, 2012 while in the studio with Rick Ross, French announced that he had signed a joint venture deal with Bad Boy Records and Maybach Music Group. Rick Ross and Diddy are set to executive produce his debut album.[19]

French was featured on XXL's Freshman Class of 2012 alongside Future, Kid Ink, Danny Brown, Macklemore, Don Trip, Hopsin, Iggy Azalea, Roscoe Dash and Bad Boy label mate MGK.[20][21] However, he later revealed to Sway Calloway on RapFix Live that he almost turned down the cover opportunity, feeling he "deserved it two years ago" and that he had surpassed the current crop of rap rookies.[11][22]

In October 2012, it was announced that French's debut album Excuse My French would be released on May 21, 2013. His mixtape Mac & Cheese 3 was released shortly afterwards, on November 19, 2012.[23] French also announced plans to release a mixtape titled Medusa with fellow rapper Future in November 2012.[24] The second single from Excuse My French was, "Freaks" featuring Nicki Minaj.[25] He was featured in Issue #82 of The FADER and appeared on the cover.[26] The third single would be "Ain't Worried About Nothin'". Upon its release, Excuse My French was met with mixed reviews from music critics.[27] It fared better commercially, debuting at number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 56,000 copies in the United States.[28]

On August 12, 2013, French Montana announced that his group/record label Coke Boys, that includes rappers Chinx Drugz, Flip, Cheeze and Lil Durk are currently working on collaboration studio album.[29] The group released a mixtape, Coke Boys 4, in January 2014.[30][31] Following its release, in an interview with Rolling Stone, Montana revealed that Mac & Cheese 4 would be his second studio album, and the first single would be released within the next two months.[32]

Personal life

Montana speaks several languages including English, Arabic and French.[33]

Between 2003 and 2004, French was shot in the head as he was exiting a recording studio in New York. He was taken to the hospital after the incident and survived.[34]

In 2007, Montana married Deen Kharbouch. They have one son, Kruz who was born in 2009. The couple later separated in 2012.[2] He cites being a father as one of his driving inspirations.[33] French also describes himself as passionate about fashion, purchasing designer wear from Versace, Gucci, Fendi and Louis Vuitton.[33]

Montana is currently in an on-again, off-again relationship with rapper Trina, who is signed to his Coke Boys record label.[35][36]

Influences

According to French, the rappers Tupac Shakur, Nas, Snoop Dogg, The Notorious B.I.G, 50 Cent, and the Wu-Tang Clan were among the hip hop artists that he listened to while growing up.[33][37] He also considers himself a general music lover,[37] and is an admirer of the work of singers Amy Winehouse and Adele.[33]

Discography

Main article: French Montana discography

References

  1. ^ MidEast Dynasty (December 7, 2011). "French Montana is a "Shot Caller"". Mideastdynasty.com. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  2. ^ a b c d "Hollywood Life - French Montana". Hollywood Life. Retrieved March 10, 2013.
  3. ^ Letter, The (May 31, 2011). "French Montana recruits Jadakiss for a "New York Minute"". Mideastdynasty.com. Retrieved January 22, 2013.
  4. ^ a b Mendez, Marisa (April 7, 2009). "Reviews: Top 5 Dead or Alive: French Montana". Retrieved April 23, 2010.
  5. ^ "French Montana Reveals Nationality & Speaks On Bad Boy". Retrieved March 7, 2013.
  6. ^ "French Montana's "Excuse My French" Pushed Back Again". Hotnewhiphop.com. Retrieved March 8, 2013.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g "French Montana: Homecoming". The Fader. September 25, 2012. Retrieved January 9, 2014.
  8. ^ "French Montana telephone interview". Nomad Radio. December 20, 2009. Retrieved March 8, 2013.
  9. ^ "Stupid Dope interview with French Montana". Stupiddope.com. January 27, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  10. ^ a b Mendez, Marisa (August 11, 2009). "French Montana: Akon's Bullet". Retrieved April 23, 2010.
  11. ^ a b "French Montana Wasn't Gonna Do' XXL Freshman Cover". Mtv.com. March 8, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  12. ^ Higgins, Keenan (January 2, 2012). "Who Is French Montana?". Retrieved March 26, 2012.
  13. ^ "20 Rappers Who Almost Signed To Other Labels". Complex.
  14. ^ French Montana to Maybach Music?[dead link]
  15. ^ Harling, Danielle (October 21, 2011). "Pusha T Talks G.O.O.D. Music Compilation, French Montana Possibly Signing To G.O.O.D. Music | Get The Latest Hip Hop News, Rap News & Hip Hop Album Sales". HipHop DX. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  16. ^ "French Montana Officially Announces Record Deal with Diddy's Bad Boy Label". Thisbeatgoes.com. January 27, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  17. ^ Interscope - French Montana[dead link]
  18. ^ "Hip-Hop Rumors: French Montana Signed Joint Deal With Bad Boy AND MMG!!??". AllHipHop.com. January 4, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  19. ^ "French Montana and Rick Ross Celebrate With Champagne From 1996". Vibe.com. January 4, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  20. ^ "XXL Freshman Class of 2012". Xxlmag.com. January 3, 2013. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  21. ^ "XXL Freshman Class Includes French Montana, Machine Gun Kelly". Mtv.com. February 29, 2012. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  22. ^ Sydney Lace (March 9, 2012). "French Montana Almost Rejected the XXL Freshmen Cover!". Allhiphop.com. Retrieved January 7, 2013.
  23. ^ "Mixtape Release Dates: Curren$y, French Montana, Fabolous, Los". Retrieved October 29, 2012.
  24. ^ "French Montana Calls 50 Cent A 'Donkey,' Announces New Tape With Future". Retrieved November 26, 2012.
  25. ^ "Check Out the Artwork for French Montana's Next Single "Freaks" Featuring Nicki Minaj". Complex. January 24, 2013. Retrieved March 8, 2013.
  26. ^ "French Montana: Homecoming".
  27. ^ "Excuse My French Reviews". Metacritic. Retrieved September 2, 2013.
  28. ^ "Hip Hop Album Sales: The Week Ending 5/26/2013". HipHopDX. Retrieved May 29, 2013. {{cite web}}: Italic or bold markup not allowed in: |publisher= (help)
  29. ^ Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) (August 12, 2013). "French Montana Says Coke Boys Crew Working On Studio Album". AllHipHop.com. Retrieved September 2, 2013.
  30. ^ "French Montana Sticks To His Comfort Zone On 'Coke Boys 4' Mixtape - XXL". Xxlmag.com. December 9, 2013. Retrieved January 9, 2014.
  31. ^ Dowling, Marcus K. (January 4, 2014). "French Montana - Coke Boys 4 (Mixtape) | Read Hip Hop Reviews, Rap Reviews & Hip Hop Album Reviews". HipHop DX. Retrieved January 9, 2014.
  32. ^ By Sowmya Krishnamurthy. "French Montana Working With Kanye, Macklemore and Rick Ross | Music News". Rolling Stone. Retrieved January 9, 2014.
  33. ^ a b c d e Peña, Loris (August 28, 2012). "Monsieur Montana". STATUS Magazine. Retrieved March 10, 2013.
  34. ^ "French Montana Talks Record Deal, Ross & Akon". Slumz.boxden.com. Retrieved September 2, 2013.
  35. ^ India, Lindsey (August 10, 2013). "Cassie & Diddy Vacation With French Montana & Trina (PHOTOS)". Global Grind. Retrieved September 2, 2013.
  36. ^ Abravanel, Lesley. "French Montana, Trina spotted at Hennessy event - People". MiamiHerald.com. Retrieved January 9, 2014.
  37. ^ a b Shull, Zac (February 6, 2012). "French Montana: Talks Indie Grind, Diddy's Business Sense & Max B". Ballerstatus.com. Retrieved January 7, 2013.

Template:Persondata

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