Vincent Jamal Staples (born July 2, 1993) is an American rapper and singer. Staples was once a close associate of Odd Future, Mike G and Earl Sweatshirt in particular. He is currently signed to Motown and Blacksmith Records. Staples rose to prominence with appearances on albums by Odd Future members and his collaborative mixtape titled Stolen Youth with producer Mac Miller. In October 2014, he released his debut EP Hell Can Wait, which included the singles "Hands Up" and "Blue Suede". His debut album, Summertime '06, was released in June 2015 to critical acclaim. He was also featured as a part of the XXL 2015 Freshman Class. His second album Big Fish Theory, which contains the singles "BagBak", "Big Fish" and "Rain Come Down", incorporates avant-garde, dance and electronic influences. It was released in June 2017 to further acclaim from critics. In November 2018, Staples released his third studio album, FM! In July 2021, he released his self-titled fourth studio album, and Ramona Park Broke My Heart in April 2022. Early life and education Staples was born in Compton, California, but grew up in North Long Beach, after his mother decided she wanted to move away from Compton due to the high crime rates. Staples is the youngest of five siblings, two brothers and three sisters. Staples grew up in poverty. Staples attended Optimal Christian Academy from 4th to 8th grade, which he said was an influential and positive experience. During high school, Staples's mom sent him to Atlanta to stay with one of his sisters. He attended high school there for six months. After returning to Southern California, Staples attended other high schools: Jordan High School in Long Beach, Mayfair High School in Lakewood, Opportunity High School home schooling, Esperanza High School in Anaheim, and Kennedy High School, among others. Staples has been upfront regarding his involvement with street gangs during his childhood, and is involved with speaking to the youth in his community about the dangers of the gang lifestyle. Growing up, Staples participated in sports when given the opportunity. Most notably, he played in Snoop Dogg's Snoop Youth Football League (SYFL). When interviewed by Sean Evans on the YouTube show Hot Ones, Staples recalled playing against the Carson Colts and Mission Viejo Cowboys who he claimed had "grown-ass men on the field." Staples then went on to state, "Snoop really did it big, we got our names