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Killer Mike

Killer Mike is the stage name of Michael Santiago Render, an American rapper, singer, actor, and activist from Atlanta, Georgia.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Killer Mike is the stage name of Michael Santiago Render, an American rapper, singer, actor, and activist from Atlanta, Georgia. He is known for solo albums, his work as one half of the hip-hop duo Run the Jewels, and for music that often addresses social and political issues. In 2024, he won three Grammy Awards for his album *Michael* and the song “Scientists & Engineers.”

Early life

Michael Santiago Render was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on April 20, 1975. He later adopted the stage name Killer Mike after beginning to perform in rap battles.

Music career

Killer Mike built a career as both a solo artist and a member of Run the Jewels. His work includes socially conscious rap and albums such as *Michael* and *R.A.P. Music*.

Political and social activism

He is also known as an activist and public commentator. His work and public statements have focused on issues including racism, police brutality, and economic inequality.

Acting and media appearances

Alongside music, Killer Mike has appeared in film and television projects. He is credited as an actor in several productions, including feature films listed in film databases.

Key facts

  • Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1975.
  • Began performing in rap battles before adopting the name Killer Mike.
  • Known for politically engaged lyrics on topics such as systemic racism, police brutality, and inequality.
  • Member of the hip-hop duo Run the Jewels with El-P.
  • Won three Grammy Awards in 2024, including Best Rap Album for *Michael*.
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Canadian context

Killer Mike has relevance for Canadian readers through his international hip-hop profile, Grammy-winning work, and performances and coverage in North American music media, including outlets with Canadian audiences.

Frequently asked questions

What is Killer Mike's real name?
His real name is Michael Santiago Render.
Where is Killer Mike from?
He was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in the United States.
What is Killer Mike known for?
He is known as a rapper, singer, actor, activist, and as one-half of Run the Jewels.
What album won Killer Mike a Grammy in 2024?
His solo album *Michael* won Best Rap Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards.
What themes appear in Killer Mike's music?
His songs often address social issues such as racism, police brutality, and inequality.

References

  1. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Killer_Mike
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, occupation, and general biography.
  2. Humanity in Actionhttps://humanityinaction.org/person/killer-mike/
    Supports: Birthplace, stage name origin, activism, and social themes in his music.
  3. All American Speakershttps://www.allamericanspeakers.com/celebritytalentbios/Killer+Mike/394591
    Supports: Run the Jewels membership, solo album *Michael*, and 2024 Grammy wins.
  4. IMDbhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm1966128/
    Supports: Acting credits and birth information.
  5. AllMusichttps://www.allmusic.com/artist/killer-mike-mn0000771261
    Supports: Career overview as rapper, actor, political activist, and Run the Jewels member.