Westside Gunn

Westside Gunn is the stage name of Alvin Lamar Worthy, an American rapper, fashion designer, and professional wrestling promoter from Buffalo, New York.

Westside Gunn is the stage name of Alvin Lamar Worthy, an American rapper, fashion designer, and professional wrestling promoter from Buffalo, New York. He is a co-founder of Griselda Records, which he started with his half-brother Conway the Machine and cousin Benny the Butcher. Known for underground hip-hop releases that draw on 1990s East Coast and hardcore rap styles, his work is relevant to Canadian readers through his Buffalo origin and proximity to Canada, especially Western New York’s cross-border cultural ties with Ontario.

Early life and background

Alvin Lamar Worthy was born on July 27, 1982, in Buffalo, New York. He is the half-brother of Conway the Machine and cousin of Benny the Butcher.

Music career

Westside Gunn began his recording career in 2005. He is known for underground hip-hop with strong influences from 1990s East Coast and hardcore rap. He has released multiple mixtapes, EPs, and studio albums since the mid-2000s.

Griselda Records

Griselda Records was co-founded by Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, and Benny the Butcher in 2012. The label became an influential independent hip-hop label and collective. Westside Gunn serves as a co-founder and curator.

Other work

Westside Gunn has also worked as a fashion designer and professional wrestling promoter.