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Dreezy

Seandrea Sledge, known professionally as Dreezy, is an rapper, singer, and songwriter born on March 28, 1994, in , . Raised on the city's South Side, she emerged in the mid-2010s as a key figure in Chicago's drill scene, blending bold lyricism with R&B-infused hooks and trap production. Dreezy gained early attention through mixtapes and freestyles, establishing herself as a versatile artist who addresses street life, relationships, and empowerment themes. Dreezy's career began in her teens, when she released her debut mixtape The Illustration following a high school detention that sparked her songwriting. She dropped out of to focus on music, achieving a breakthrough with the 2014 mixtape Schizo and a freestyle over Lil Herb's "." That year, she signed with and earned her first major feature on Common's "Hustle Harder" from the album . Early collaborations with Chicago artists like Tink, , , and helped solidify her local buzz. Her debut studio album, No Hard Feelings (2016), marked her mainstream entry, featuring hits like "Body" with Jeremih, which peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. Follow-up releases include the mixtape From the Westside with Love (2015), the sophomore album Big Dreez (2019) with singles like "Chanel" featuring Kash Doll, and the collaborative project HITGIRL (2022) with producer Hit-Boy. Dreezy has worked with artists such as T-Pain, 2 Chainz, Kodak Black, G Herbo, King Louie, and Snoh Aalegra, while also venturing into acting with a role in the 2019 Netflix film Beats. In recent years, she released singles such as "Bitch Duh" (2024), "Yea Yea" with Lady London (2023), and "TOXIC" featuring T-Pain (2025), while signing a distribution deal with Virgin Music in 2025 as an independent artist, continuing to evolve her sound amid Chicago's rap legacy.

Early life and personal background

Early life

Seandrea Sledge was born on March 28, 1994, in , . She was raised on the South Side of the city as the oldest child of two native Chicagoan working-class parents. Throughout her childhood, Sledge moved frequently on the South Side, including areas like Chatham, while splitting time with her mother there and her father in the suburb of , amid personal and familial challenges. These experiences led her to seek solace in artistic expression from a young age, particularly through writing and engaging with creative outlets to cope with her circumstances. Sledge's interest in music emerged early, as she began around age 10 and experimenting with scatting. By age 14, she gravitated toward , discovering a natural talent for amid the vibrant scene, which shaped her initial style through exposure to local sounds and artists. She cited and as key influences, with Cole becoming her favorite rapper for his introspective approach. During high school at Rich South High School, Sledge started composing her first rap verses, often encouraged by peers who recognized her skill. Though accepted to , Sledge briefly attended before prioritizing her passion for music. As a teenager, she began recording freestyles and distributing early mixtapes like The Illustration at school, treating music as a personal outlet rather than a career pursuit at the time. In the early , she initiated her online presence by uploading rap freestyles to under the moniker Dreezy purely as a , laying the groundwork for her eventual professional endeavors without initial expectations of fame.

Personal life

Dreezy was in a long-term on-and-off relationship with R&B singer Jacquees from 2018 to 2023, with multiple public breakups, including a notable split in 2020, marked by frequent reconciliations and social media disputes. The couple first split in September 2019, briefly reunited in early 2020, and ended things definitively later that year amid accusations of infidelity and lack of support. In August 2025, Dreezy reignited public discussion about their past by accusing of chronic infidelity, including cheating with Deiondra Sanders—whom he later dated, got engaged to, and with whom he shares a child—while they were still together. She claimed introduced Sanders as a mere friend during a group trip but was secretly intimate with her, leading to Sanders' pregnancy, and that he attempted to rekindle their romance even after the engagement. Sanders denied the allegations, asserting the child was not a product of cheating on Dreezy. Dreezy maintains close ties with her parents and two younger sisters in the area, often reflecting on the support from her amid her adult life transitions. As of 2025, she has no children and has never been married. Beyond relationships, Dreezy pursues personal passions in and , incorporating regular workouts into her routine for physical and mental well-being. She frequently showcases her style through collaborations with brands like and has described as a key outlet for self-expression.

Career

2011–2013: YouTube beginnings and early mixtapes

Dreezy, born Seandrea Sledge, began her music career by uploading to in 2012, showcasing her lyrical skills over popular beats as a teenager from Chicago's South Side. One of her early videos, the "First Degree " uploaded on September 14, 2012, demonstrated her confident and helped build an initial following among local enthusiasts. These grassroots efforts marked her entry into the digital space, where she honed her craft amid Chicago's burgeoning rap scene. In 2012, she gained further traction through a collaboration with fellow Chicago rapper on the track "I Ain’t No Hitta," which highlighted her ability to blend aggressive verses with melodic elements in the city's -influenced sound. This partnership connected her to emerging artists in the local community, including performances at Chicago clubs where she navigated the competitive environment to secure spots on bills. Her family provided crucial support during this formative period, encouraging her artistic pursuits despite external pressures. In 2012, Dreezy released her debut , The Illustration, self-produced and distributed independently, which allowed her to experiment with beats and introspective lyrics while establishing a grassroots presence on platforms like . Later, in 2013, she followed with the collaborative Business N Pleasure alongside Mikey Dollaz, further solidifying her ties to Chicago's male-dominated circuit. As one of the few women breaking through, she faced skepticism and barriers in the local scene, yet her raw talent generated early buzz, attracting minor label inquiries while she chose to remain independent to maintain creative control.

2014–2016: Interscope signing and breakthrough singles

In 2014, Dreezy released a remix of Nicki Minaj's "Chiraq," which went viral and attracted attention from industry executives, culminating in her signing with in December of that year. This deal marked a pivotal shift from her independent beginnings, providing resources for broader exposure while building on the buzz from her earlier freestyles. Preceding the signing, Dreezy released her Schizo on February 24, 2014, through AOE Records, which highlighted her sharp lyricism and drill influences as a foundational project in her rising profile. Under Interscope, she delivered her debut EP Call It What You Want on , 2015, a five-track effort that explored themes of authenticity and fame, featuring collaborations with artists like and . The period's defining moment came with the release of her single "" featuring on January 23, 2016, which reinterpreted gritty slang into a seductive R&B-rap hybrid and became her first entry on the , peaking at number 62 while earning platinum certification from the RIAA. This success propelled her onto national tours, including opening slots for major acts, and positioned her as a nominee for Magazine's 2015 Freshman Class, solidifying her emergence as a prominent voice in .

2017–2019: Album releases and major label era

Following the release of her debut studio album on July 15, 2016, via , Dreezy entered a period of sustained output under major label backing, blending trap-infused R&B with introspective lyricism. The album, featuring collaborations with artists such as , Wale, , and , debuted at number 101 on the chart and reached number 15 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart, marking her first full-length project to achieve notable commercial visibility. This era saw Dreezy focusing on album cycles and strategic singles, though promotion waned over time amid label dynamics. In 2017, Dreezy released the single "Spar" featuring and , which showcased her melodic flow over atmospheric production and extended her reach in the R&B-rap crossover space. She supported this output with live performances, including appearances at high-profile events like Festival in 2018 and the , where she performed tracks blending her signature swagger with emotional depth. These shows highlighted her growing stage presence, though no dedicated headlining tour materialized during this phase. Dreezy's sophomore project, Big Dreez, arrived on January 25, 2019, as a 10-track under Interscope that leaned into confident, bass-heavy elements while incorporating lush R&B hooks. The release featured high-caliber guests including on "Range," on "Ecstasy," on "Love Someone," on "Showin' Out," and on "Chanel Slides," emphasizing her network within contemporary and R&B circles. Singles like "Where Them $ @" from 2018 served as precursors, with its video garnering attention for its bold visuals and street-oriented themes, further solidifying her fusion of bravado and vulnerability. Throughout 2017–2019, Dreezy bolstered her profile through featured appearances on prominent releases, such as her verse on "Ladies, Ladies, Ladies" from J. Cole's Dreamville compilation in July 2019, which debuted at number one on the and underscored her versatility in ensemble tracks. Other contributions, including on Keke Palmer's "Got Me F*cked Up," reinforced her reputation in the trap-R&B , drawing from Chicago's influences while appealing to broader audiences. However, this period also reflected emerging challenges with Interscope, as a relative quiet following —coupled with limited promotional push for Big Dreez—hinted at internal strains that would culminate in her departure from the label in 2020. Her relationship with during this time subtly influenced tracks like "Love Someone," adding personal layers to her major-label output.

2020–present: Independence, Hitgirl, and recent activities

In 2020, Dreezy parted ways with Interscope Records to focus on independent releases, marking a shift toward greater creative control after her major label tenure. She aligned with EMPIRE for distribution, enabling her to self-release projects without traditional label oversight. This transition allowed her to experiment more freely, as evidenced by her subsequent output. Dreezy's first major independent effort was the collaborative album Hitgirl with producer Hit-Boy, released on May 20, 2022, via EMPIRE. Executive produced by Hit-Boy, the 10-track project features appearances from Future, Coi Leray, Jeremih, and INK, blending trap beats with introspective lyrics that highlight her confidence and navigate the dualities of romance and sexism in rap. The album introduces a bold alter ego persona, emphasizing resilience and self-assurance as core themes. Leading up to its release, Dreezy dropped the single "They Not Ready" in April 2022, showcasing her lyrical sharpness over Hit-Boy's production. Building on this momentum, Dreezy continued issuing singles independently, including the 2023 collaboration "Yea Yea" with , which gained viral traction for its energetic interplay, the 2024 single "Bitch Duh" (and its ), and in 2025, "Toxic" featuring , a track delving into emotional complexities in relationships. These efforts reflect her ongoing commitment to consistent output amid preparations for future projects. Dreezy's public profile has intersected with personal matters, including 2024 rumors of a romantic link with during Coachella weekend, which both artists firmly denied, clarifying they had rented the same property on different days. In August 2025, she publicly addressed her on-and-off six-year relationship with ex (2018–2023), accusing him of infidelity and sparking a feud with his then-partner Deiondra Sanders, who refuted claims of overlapping involvement. Dreezy shared alleged text messages from pleading for reconciliation, framing the drama as a push for accountability. Amid these events, Dreezy maintained a strong stage presence, performing at festivals like Wiscansin Fest in 2023 and attending high-profile events such as Coachella 2024. She has actively promoted solidarity among female rappers, highlighting collaborations with peers like Coi Leray and advocating for mutual support in the genre to counter industry challenges.

Artistry

Musical style and themes

Dreezy's music fuses elements of trap production with melodic R&B hooks and Chicago drill influences, creating a sound that bridges street-oriented hip-hop and crossover appeal. Her tracks often feature booming 808 basslines and crisp hi-hats characteristic of trap, as heard in collaborations with producers like Metro Boomin and Southside on her debut album No Hard Feelings, where rugged beats underpin songs like "Spazz." This blend extends to drill's ominous synths and rapid flows, rooted in her Chicago origins, evident in early singles like her remix of "Chiraq" that showcased aggressive, unfiltered lyricism over gritty percussion. Later works, such as the Hit-Boy-produced Hitgirl, incorporate softer drum patterns and synth textures to highlight her R&B sensibilities, balancing hard-hitting rap with smoother, atmospheric vibes. Her vocal style seamlessly mixes sharp flows with , delivering verses in a glossy, falsetto-infused tone that shifts from nimble and playful to serrated and authoritative. Dreezy's vocal delivery in tracks like "" features a polished, natural cadence enhanced by the . This hybrid approach allows her to pivot between ferocious bars and emotive hooks, distinguishing her from pure while echoing the versatility of contemporaries in Chicago's scene. Lyrically, Dreezy explores themes of female , heartbreak, street life, and complex relationships through vulnerable, narrative-driven . Songs like "Wasted" delve into the pains of romantic betrayal and self-worth, with lines reflecting emotional walls built from past hurts, while tracks such as "Sliders" assert pride in her roots and resilience amid urban struggles. motifs recur in her confrontations with and ambition, as in Hitgirl's playful yet bold disses that channel unapologetic confidence. Her evolution from the raw aggression of early mixtapes like Schizo—focused on street bravado—to the more introspective pop-rap of albums like Big Dreez underscores a maturation in thematic depth, prioritizing personal growth over mere confrontation.

Influences and collaborations

Dreezy's musical style draws heavily from a blend of icons and Chicago's local scene, with serving as a primary influence on her intricate flow and lyrical delivery. She has frequently cited Wayne's ability to blend melody and rhythm as a blueprint for her own rap-singing hybrid approach. Similarly, stands out as her all-time favorite rapper, inspiring her emphasis on introspective storytelling and technical precision in verses. Among female rappers, Dreezy ranks Foxy Brown highly for her commanding presence and unapologetic lyricism, crediting Brown alongside , , and as pivotal figures who shaped her appreciation for innovative and multifaceted women in . also factors into her admiration for bold, versatile female rap prowess. Her roots in Chicago's drill movement further inform her sound, where she acknowledges the energy of Chief Keef's pioneering work as emblematic of the city's raw, high-stakes rap aesthetic, though she adapts it with a melodic edge. Early exposure to R&B and elements, including old-school influences that emphasize emotional , has allowed Dreezy to infuse her trap-leaning tracks with a singing-rap hybrid reminiscent of artists like , though she traces her vocal foundations more directly to music education in . Mentorship from local Chicago artists, such as her close ties with , provided early guidance in navigating the male-dominated drill scene, helping her carve out space as one of the few prominent female voices elevating women in . Key collaborations highlight Dreezy's network and evolving artistry, including her feature on Jeremih's "" from her 2016 album , which showcased her smooth R&B-infused delivery alongside established peers. In 2019, she joined for "Got Me," linking with , , and Ty Dolla $ign during sessions for , blending her grit with the label's soulful vibe. More recently, the 2024 remix of her single "B**ch Duh" united her with , , and , exemplifying her push for female camaraderie in rap amid a competitive landscape. Personal experiences, particularly breakups like her high-profile split from , have influenced her thematic focus in these partnerships, steering her toward empowering, self-reflective tracks that prioritize female unity and over romantic narratives.

Discography

Studio albums

Dreezy's debut studio album, No Hard Feelings, was released on July 15, 2016, through Interscope Records. The project features 19 tracks and includes guest appearances from artists such as Jeremih on the lead single "Body," Gucci Mane on "We Gon Ride," and T-Pain on "Wasted." Produced by a team including Southside, Cardo, and BloodPop, the album blends trap-influenced rap with R&B elements, showcasing Dreezy's versatility in switching between aggressive verses and melodic hooks. Commercially, it debuted at number 101 on the Billboard 200 chart and reached number 15 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. The single "Body" achieved platinum certification by the RIAA in February 2017, marking Dreezy's first major commercial success. Critics praised the album for its polished production and Dreezy's ability to balance rugged rap with pop-leaning tracks, though some noted inconsistencies in pacing. Her second studio album, Big Dreez, arrived on January 25, 2019, also via Interscope Records. Comprising 10 tracks, it features contributions from producers like London on da Track, Southside, Pi'erre Bourne, and OG Parker, emphasizing trap beats and introspective lyrics. Notable guests include Kash Doll on "Chanel Slides," Jeremih on "Ecstasy," and Offset on "25K." Reception was mixed, with reviewers appreciating Dreezy's refined songwriting and taut verses but critiquing the project's occasional lack of direction amid its lush soundscapes. In 2022, Dreezy released Hitgirl on May 20, independently through Empire in collaboration with producer Hit-Boy, who handled all production. The 10-track album highlights empowerment themes through confident anthems, with features from Future on "Sliders," Jeremih on "Proof," Coi Leray on "21 Questions," and INK on "No Lames." Key tracks like "They Not Ready" and "Phases" underscore Dreezy's lyrical sharpness and vulnerability, blending hip-hop with R&B influences. While it did not achieve significant chart placement, the project received positive critical acclaim for its authenticity, playful energy, and Dreezy's evolved performance. By 2025, Dreezy's studio albums had collectively amassed over 100 million streams across platforms.
AlbumRelease DateLabelTracksPeak Billboard 200Notable Singles/Guests
No Hard FeelingsJuly 15, 2016Interscope19101"Body" (ft. , platinum); ,
Big DreezJanuary 25, 2019Interscope10N/A"Chanel Slides" (ft. ); ,
HitgirlMay 20, 2022Empire10N/A"They Not Ready"; ,

Extended plays

Dreezy released her debut extended play, Call It What You Want, on July 28, 2015, through Interscope Records, marking her first project with the label following her signing in 2014. The five-track EP showcased her blend of rap and R&B, with production from Earl & E and others, and served as a bridge between her early mixtapes and full-length album. Key tracks included "Real" and "Ain't Rocking With You" featuring K CAMP, reflecting her experiences with fame and authenticity. The project helped build anticipation for her debut album, accumulating millions of streams across platforms. Later that year, Dreezy followed up with From Now On on December 25, 2015, her second EP under Interscope, entirely produced by Metro Boomin and Southside. This five-track release featured guest appearances, notably DeJ Loaf on "Serena," and emphasized Dreezy's confident lyricism amid booming, atmospheric production, further solidifying her rising profile in hip-hop. Tracks like the title song "From Now On" and "Juice" demonstrated her versatility in switching between aggressive flows and smoother cadences, contributing to the EP's role in maintaining momentum toward her 2016 album No Hard Feelings. Combined with her prior EP, these projects garnered around 20 million total streams by the late 2010s, underscoring their impact in establishing her sound during her major-label transition.
TitleRelease DateLabelTracksNotable Producers/Features
Call It What You WantJuly 28, 2015Interscope5Earl & E; K CAMP on "Ain't Rocking With You"
From Now OnDecember 25, 2015Interscope5Metro Boomin, Southside; DeJ Loaf on "Serena"

Mixtapes

Dreezy's early mixtapes exemplified her DIY approach, self-releasing projects on free online platforms to cultivate a fanbase in 's scene. Dreezy released her debut The Illustration in 2012, following a high school detention that inspired her songwriting. The project featured freestyles and original tracks, establishing her initial buzz on platforms like . In 2013, she dropped D.S.M (Schizo Pre-Tape), a collection of raw freestyles and loosies over popular beats, distributed via sites like Fake Shore Drive to showcase her unfiltered without major guests. Following her rising buzz from freestyles, Dreezy released Schizo in February 2014, a 16-track effort blending and influences, primarily produced by D. Brooks and featuring only local collaborators like and Ross Augusta. These projects highlighted her unpolished talent and deep ties to 's sound, serving as foundational works that captured her authentic, street-level emergence before major label involvement.

Singles as lead artist

Dreezy's singles as lead artist showcase her versatility, beginning with high-energy, radio-friendly tracks during her tenure and shifting toward more personal, independent releases in later years. Her debut major-label single, "" featuring , served as the lead for her 2016 album and became her highest-charting release, highlighting her blend of and R&B. Subsequent singles like "Close to You" and "Spar" maintained momentum with collaborations, while post-label efforts such as "Spazz" and "They Not Ready" reflect a return to raw lyricism and viral potential on platforms like . Overall, she has issued approximately 11 notable singles as lead, prioritizing creative control and evolving from club anthems to more reflective narratives.
TitleYearAlbum/EraPeak chart positionsCertificationsNotes
Body (featuring Jeremih)2016No Hard FeelingsUS Hot 100: 62
US R&B/Hip-Hop Songs: 14
Platinum (RIAA)Lead single from debut album; debuted on Hot 100 at No. 98 before peaking; marked her breakthrough with urban radio airplay.
Close to You (featuring T-Pain)2016No Hard FeelingsThird single from debut album; focused on romantic themes with R&B production.
Spar (featuring 6LACK and Kodak Black)2017No Hard FeelingsPromotional single emphasizing lyrical sparring; released amid discussions of gender dynamics in rap.
F.D.N.2017Non-album singleStandalone release during major-label period, showcasing trap influences.
Can't Trust A Soul (featuring PnB Rock)2017Non-album singleHighlighted themes of betrayal; part of Interscope promotional cycle.
Chanel Slides (featuring Kash Doll)2018Big DreezLuxe-themed track from mixtape era; emphasized fashion and confidence.
2nd to None (featuring 2 Chainz)2018Non-album singleCollaborative effort underscoring resilience; tied to late-2010s label output.
Spazz2022Non-album singleIndependent release produced by TM88; aggressive flow aimed at viral appeal on social media.
They Not Ready (with Hit-Boy)2022HitgirlLead single for collaborative album; marked her independent pivot with Empire distribution.
Bitch Duh2024Non-album singleBold, self-assured track under Ten57 Music; continued evolution toward empowerment anthems.
Toxic (featuring T-Pain)2025Non-album singleReunion collaboration; explored toxic relationships with melodic elements.
Dreezy has appeared as a featured artist on several s, often contributing verses that add a bold, feminine edge to collaborative tracks in and R&B. These guest spots have highlighted her adaptability, from melodic ensemble pieces to high-energy rap features, boosting her visibility within broader artist networks like Dreamville. One of her prominent early features was on AlunaGeorge's "Mean What I Mean," alongside , released as a from the 2016 I Remember. The track's production and empowering lyrics earned praise for Dreezy's confident delivery, which complemented the song's theme of unapologetic self-expression. In 2016, Dreezy guested on Keke Palmer's "Got Me Fucked Up," the second track and lead promotional single from Palmer's EP Lauren. Her verse brought a gritty rap flair to the R&B-infused cut about toxic relationships, helping the song resonate in urban radio rotations. A significant collaboration came in 2019 with Dreamville's "Got Me," performed by Ari Lennox and Omen featuring Ty Dolla $ign and Dreezy, from the compilation album Revenge of the Dreamers III. Dreezy's feature on this smooth, introspective track contributed to the album's commercial success, with the song amassing over 73 million Spotify streams and underscoring her integration into J. Cole's influential circle. Critics noted her performance as adding emotional depth and a female viewpoint to the male-dominated posse cut style. More recently, Dreezy featured on ' "Ya Body" in 2022, a sultry R&B single from the album Hurt under . Her contribution infused the track with playful rap energy, aligning with Jacquees' signature romantic vibe. In 2023, she appeared on Lady London's "Yea Yea," a freestyle-inspired single that paid homage to early hip-hop aesthetics and went viral on social media platforms like . The collaboration, with over 3 million streams, showcased Dreezy's chemistry in all-female rap features, earning acclaim for its nostalgic yet fresh approach. Dreezy's featured work, totaling around eight notable appearances across her career, frequently positions her in male-dominated or ensemble contexts, where her sharp lyricism and vocal versatility provide contrast and elevation. These opportunities have been key to her exposure, as seen in the viral traction of collaborative remixes like the 2024 "Bitch Duh" update with , , and , which garnered widespread social media buzz and exceeded 30 million combined streams shortly after release.

Other endeavors

Film roles

Dreezy made her feature film debut in the 2019 Netflix drama Beats, directed by Chris Robinson, portraying the supporting role of Queen Cabrini, an aspiring Chicago street rapper who achieves breakthrough success. The production, which explores themes of hip-hop culture and mentorship through the story of a reclusive teen producer and his guardian, was primarily filmed on location in Chicago to capture the city's authentic urban vibe. Her character draws directly from Dreezy's own background as a rapper, allowing her to infuse the role with personal authenticity by performing original raps that showcase her vocal style and lyrical flow. In interviews, she described the experience as seamless, noting that embodying a rising mirrored her real-life journey in the industry. Though her appearance is brief, Dreezy's performance received positive feedback for its natural charisma and energetic delivery, with reviewers highlighting her as a standout in the ensemble and crediting her sequences for injecting memorable vitality into the film. One critic praised her "slick vocals" in a key musical moment as electric and breakthrough-worthy. As of 2025, Beats stands as Dreezy's sole major film credit, with no additional cinematic roles announced.

Television roles

Dreezy has appeared in several television series, including a role in the Max series (2022), the series South Side (2019), and as a guest on . These roles build on her acting debut in Beats and highlight her presence in hip-hop-themed media.

Awards and nominations

Dreezy has received nominations from prestigious music awards bodies, primarily recognizing her contributions as a performer and songwriter, though she has yet to secure a major win as of 2025. Her accolades highlight her versatility in rap and R&B, with a focus on collaborative and songwriting efforts.
YearAwardCategoryNominated workResult
2017Best New R&B ArtistHerselfNominated
2020Best Rap Album (featured artist)Nominated
2022Back of My Mind (songwriter on "Find A Way" featuring )Nominated
These nominations underscore Dreezy's growing influence in and R&B circles despite the competitive landscape. She has received two Grammy nominations as of 2025.