Booba: The Duke of Darkness Reigns Supreme in French Rap Few figures loom larger in the landscape of French hip-hop than Booba, a titan whose influence is as undeniable as his gruff delivery. Often hailed (and sometimes reviled) as Le Duc de Boulogne, Booba's sound is a potent cocktail of gangster rap swagger, trap-infused beats, and a surprisingly introspective lyrical bent. His music draws heavily from American hip-hop traditions, particularly New York's hardcore scene, but filtered through a distinctly Parisian lens, resulting in a style both familiar and fiercely original. Booba's career exploded in the late 90s with Lunatic, his duo with Ali. Solo success followed with albums like "Temps Mort" and "Ouest Side," solidifying his status as a dominant force. Known for his often controversial lyrics and his pioneering use of autotune, Booba consistently pushes boundaries. He's collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Akon to Kaaris, although feuds have become almost as synonymous with his name as his hits. Beyond the music, Booba has ventured into entrepreneurship, launching his own clothing line and media ventures, further cementing his position as a cultural icon. Currently, Booba remains a prolific artist, frequently releasing new tracks and maintaining his undeniable grip on the French rap scene.