22Gz, born Jeffrey Mark Alexander and also known by the nickname "Tutu," is a notable rapper from the Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. He is widely regarded as one of the pioneering figures in the Brooklyn drill music movement. This subgenre is known for its dark, aggressive beats featuring menacing basslines and syncopated hi-hats, combined with raw, street-oriented lyrics that reflect urban life and gang culture.
22Gz began gaining attention in the mid-2010s as Brooklyn drill started to take shape, positioning himself as one of the genre’s foundational voices. His intense flow and uncompromising lyrical content quickly gained traction, drawing both acclaim and controversy.
Legal Troubles
22Gz’s rising career has been repeatedly complicated by serious legal issues. One of the most high-profile incidents occurred in May 2017 when he was arrested in Miami Beach, Florida. He faced charges including second-degree murder and second-degree attempted murder after a shooting incident reportedly sparked by a dispute over a parking space. One man was killed and another injured. However, after nearly two years of legal proceedings, the charges were dismissed in December 2018. Prosecutors cited the difficulty in disproving that Alexander may have acted in self-defense.
Earlier that same year, he had been arrested in Brooklyn in connection with a separate shooting and was charged with attempted murder. He later accepted a plea deal for lesser charges. These incidents have mirrored a broader pattern seen in the drill scene, where artists often walk a precarious line between fame and the criminal justice system.
Musical Contributions and Career Path
22Gz is credited with helping shape the sound and culture of Brooklyn drill, which has since influenced artists far beyond New York. His signature style, marked by a grim realism and energetic cadences, has inspired a generation of rappers within and outside of Brooklyn.
Some of his most recognized tracks include:
- Suburban, Pt. 2
- Blixky Gang Freestyle
- Twirlanta
- Fallen Blixkys
These songs not only cemented his place in the drill genre but also helped introduce Brooklyn drill to a wider audience. His influence contributed to the rise of other drill artists, and his name is often mentioned in discussions about the genre’s earliest stars.
22Gz later signed a recording deal with Atlantic Records, through Kodak Black’s Sniper Gang imprint—a major milestone that highlighted his commercial potential. Despite his talent, his legal struggles have at times overshadowed his music, drawing comparisons to other drill artists like Lil Jay from Chicago and Bobby Shmurda from Brooklyn, both of whom also experienced career interruptions due to incarceration.
22Gz has been associated with groups aligned with the Folk Nation, which adds another layer of complexity to his life and music. His story reflects the broader challenges faced by many drill artists, who must navigate a fine line between their street affiliations and mainstream success in the music industry.