Lil Duke, formerly known as Arnold Martinez, is a rapper from Atlanta, Georgia. His rise to fame came from his association with Young Thug and Young Stoner Life (YSL), the record label with which he was the first to sign.
Lil Duke gained recognition in the Atlanta rap scene, known for his collaborations with influential artists such as Young Thug, Gunna, and Lil Baby.
His performances on major YSL projects, including Slime Language, have helped solidify his place in the trap music scene.
Lil Duke’s music resonates with fans for its gritty lyrics and raw depictions of life in Atlanta.
contour
- Full name: Arnold Martinez
- Nickname: Little Duke
- Date of birth: March 29, 1985
- Age: 39 years old
- Gender: Male
- Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Nationality: United States
- Occupation: Rapper
- Height: 6’1″ (185 cm)
- Parents: Mother – Katherine Arnold, Father – N/A
- Siblings: Brother – N/A
- Spouse: Not applicable
- Children: Not applicable
- Relationship status: Single
- Religion: Not applicable
- Ethnicity: African American
- Net worth: $350,000
early life and education
Arnold Martinez was born on March 29, 1985 in Atlanta, Georgia. He is 39 years old. He grew up in a close-knit family and was raised primarily by his mother, Katherine Arnold, who played an important role in his upbringing as a single parent.
Duke grew up in the Jonesboro Road area of Atlanta, an area known for its tough environment. He has a younger brother, but details about his younger brother’s life remain secret.
Duke grew up in Atlanta’s rougher neighborhoods, a central theme in his music that influenced his approach to trap and street rap. His ethnicity is African American, and like many in his community, his experiences in these environments shaped his worldview.
Although details about his formal education are not widely known, Duke’s attention turned to music and building a rap career early on, especially after working with Young Thug and becoming one of YSL’s foundational artists.
personal life
Lil Duke has spent much of his personal life away from the public. As of now, he is single and has no children. Despite being stuck in a past relationship,
Duke has never been married and does not have a famous “baby mama,” which sets him apart from many other rappers in his circle. His relationship status has sparked curiosity among fans, as Duke is more focused on his music career than publicizing his personal affairs.
Profession
Lil Duke officially launched his career after becoming the first artist to sign with Young Thug’s YSL label. His friendship with Young Thug dates back to before both artists entered the music industry, and their relationship played a major role in Duke’s career.
His early projects like Blue Devil and Uberman 2, featuring collaborations with artists such as Lil Durk, Lil Yachty, and Travis Scott, helped establish him in the trap music world.
Throughout his career, Duke has contributed to Young Thug’s projects, appearing on albums such as “Slime Season 3” and “So Much Fun.” His discography includes tracks that highlight his street style, focusing on the harsh realities of life in Atlanta.
His music often touches on themes of loyalty, brotherhood and survival, making him a key figure on the YSL roster. Duke also helped Gunna join YSL, further solidifying his influence in the brand.
net worth
Lil Duke’s net worth is estimated at $350,000. His music career, which includes record sales, streaming earnings and performances, has largely amassed this wealth.
Although Duke’s net worth is modest compared to some of his peers in the industry, Duke’s influence within the YSL camp and his steady musical output continue to contribute to his financial growth.
dispute
Like many people associated with YSL, Lil Duke’s career has not been without controversy. His name emerged in a high-profile RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization) case in 2022 against Young Thug and several YSL members.
Duke, whose legal name is Martinez Arnold, was charged with gang-related activity, including drug and gun charges. The charges stem from his long-standing ties to YSL, which prosecutors say is a criminal organization.
In December 2022, Duke reached a plea agreement in the case. As part of the agreement, five drug and firearms charges against him were dropped in exchange for pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate the RICO Act and one count of participating in criminal street gang activity.
The deal resulted in a 12-year prison sentence, with two years commuted and the remaining 10 years suspended. While Duke did not admit to many of the charges, his plea deal was seen as a strategic move to avoid a lengthy prison sentence.
The case remains a major point of contention in Atlanta’s music community. Many fans believe the legal system unfairly targets YSL members, using their lyrics and social media presence against them.
Duke’s involvement in the case highlights the complex relationship between hip-hop culture, law enforcement and depictions of street life in music.
social media
- – Instagram: @lilduke60
- – Twitter: @lilduke60
discography
- – Blue Devils
- – Uber Man 2
- – Slime Language (combined with YSL)
- ——Duke Hefner
