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Before ‘RAPSTAR’: A Visit to Polo G’s Former House on the West Side of Chicago

Before ‘RAPSTAR’: A Visit to Polo G’s Former House on the West Side of Chicago

Polo G’s home in their childhood stands as a two-story residence with three bedrooms and a single bathroom on the upper level. On the ground floor, there’s a warm living room, kitchen, and dining area.

The layout fostered intimacy among family members which nurtured strong bonds within the cozy space. Described as ‘humble’ and ‘regular,’ the atmosphere of the house prioritized togetherness over material possessions, shaping Polo G’s character and artistic expression.

It significantly influenced his storytelling in music, drawing inspiration from the everyday struggles faced in the challenging neighborhoods of Chicago thus becoming a muse for his songs that give voice to those confronting hardships and striving to overcome challenges.

Polo G’s Early Life in Chicago’s North Side

Polo G grew up on the West Side of Chicago, where life wasn’t easy. His family moved around a lot, living in apartments all over the North Lawndale neighborhood. At a young age, he witnessed violence and poverty firsthand.

His parents worked hard to provide for him and his siblings. Even though money was tight, his dad made sure Polo pursued his interests. He started writing rhymes and rapping around age 12, finding solace in music.

"Image of Polo G in which hands are shown
Polo G found guidance and mentorship in his older brother

Polo attended several Chicago public schools before dropping out in the 10th grade. He struggled in traditional classrooms but was a fast learner when it came to music. His older brother, Trench Baby mentored him, helping Polo improve his flow and wordplay.

The West Side was a rough place to grow up, but it shaped Polo’s authentic style. His lyrics reflect the harsh realities of street life in Chicago, rapping about loss, hardship, and perseverance against the odds.

At just 21, Polo has achieved success beyond his wildest dreams. But he hasn’t forgotten where he came from. “Capalot” and “Through Da Storm” pay tribute to his West Side roots. His raw, melodic sound and genuine storytelling have resonated with fans worldwide.

Polo proves that no matter your circumstances, you can achieve greatness with hard work and heart. His meteoric rise to fame is an inspiration, showing what’s possible for talented kids from even the roughest neighborhoods. The West Side made him, and he’s putting the West Side on the map.

Touring Polo G’s Former West Side Neighborhood

  • Polo G grew up in Chicago’s Lawndale area, known for high poverty and crime rates.
  • The neighborhood comprised boarded-up houses and empty lots, reflecting its difficult environment.
  • Gang conflicts were frequent in the area, although recent years have seen a decrease in violence.
  • Music became Polo G’s escape from the negative influences around him.
  • His supportive mother facilitated his early music career by taking him to a local studio as a teenager.
  • Developing his musical skills provided Polo G with a way out of the dangerous streets.
  • Despite the ongoing challenges in his old neighborhood, Polo G’s determination to succeed as an artist remains strong.
  • His songs vividly portray the harsh realities of growing up where opportunities were scarce.
  • Polo G’s music showcases resilience and talent, illustrating how he overcame challenging circumstances.
  • Visiting Chicago’s Lawndale area offers insights into the life experiences that shaped Polo G’s artistry.
  • His ability to turn struggles into popular songs has resonated with fans globally, inspiring many.
  • Polo G’s success stands as an inspirational example of triumphing over adversity through dedication to one’s dreams.

The Exterior and Layout of Polo G’s Former Home

the satellite view of polo g house
A Front view of Polo G house with swimming pool.

Polo G grew up in a modest single-family home on the West Side of Chicago. The red brick house is typical of homes in the area, with a small front yard and garage.

The Layout

AspectDescription
House ConfigurationTwo-story house: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom upstairs; living room, kitchen, and dining area downstairs. The cozy layout fostered close family bonds.
AtmosphereDescribed as ‘humble’ and ‘regular’. Emphasized togetherness over material possessions.
Influence on Polo GShaped Polo G’s character and artistry. Inspired his storytelling based on everyday struggles in Chicago’s toughest areas.
Impact on MusicServes as a muse for Polo G’s music, giving a voice to those facing hardships and and aiming to overcome challenges.
Move to Upscale HomePolo G has since moved to a more upscale residence but continues to honor his roots and frequently returns to his old neighborhood.
Symbolic SignificanceRepresents the foundation of Polo G’s success. Despite its size, it embodies the values and drive instilled in him to achieve more and give back to his community.
Exterior and Layout of Polo G’s house

Inside Polo G’s Childhood Bedroom

Polo G’s childhood bedroom was a small space, containing a twin-sized bed, a small desk, and not much else. The walls were white, and according to Polo G, “bare as hell.” As a kid, Polo G didn’t have many belongings. His family struggled financially, so there wasn’t money for decorations or lots of toys.

A Safe Space

Despite its simplicity, Polo G’s bedroom was a place of comfort and escape for him. When things got tough, he would retreat to his room, sit on his bed, and write lyrics or rap into a small microphone.

Music became not just a creative outlet but a way for Polo G to work through the difficulties he faced. His bedroom was a sanctuary where he felt safe to open up and be vulnerable through his art.

Polo G spent hours upon hours in that little room, honing his craft and dreaming of a better future. Though he lived in harsh conditions, his talent and perseverance shone through. His bedroom served as the backdrop for his evolution from a shy kid into a skilled rapper and storyteller.

The bars Polo G penned in that small space would eventually captivate the world, though, at the time, he was simply trying to make sense of his own experiences.

Despite achieving fame and success, Polo G still maintains a sense of humility. He recognizes that tiny bedroom as the place where his gift was first nurtured and his voice found power.

For that reason, his childhood home remains an important reminder of where he came from, and how far he’s come. Though the house itself is now empty, the memories it holds, especially those in that little room, continue to shape Polo G as an artist and a man.

How Polo G’s Upbringing Influences His Music

Polo G about developing melodic flow

Polo G’s challenging upbringing on the West Side of Chicago has greatly influenced his music. Growing up in a dangerous neighborhood, he witnessed violence and crime at a young age, with close friends and family members getting locked up or losing their lives. These harsh realities of street life shaped his perspective and inspired him to turn to music as an outlet.

Finding Hope Through Hip-Hop

a satellite side view of polo g house
A side view of Polo G house with street passing from it.

Polo G found hope in hip-hop music. As a teen, he listened to artists like Lil Wayne, Gucci Mane, and Chief Keef, who also came from tough circumstances.

Their stories of struggle and perseverance motivated him. At 15, Polo G started writing his raps and recording music as a way to express his experiences, cope with trauma, and envision a better future.

His breakout hit “Pop Out” reflects this mindset. The anthem is an ode to overcoming adversity through hard work and determination. “They ain’t believe in us, now we pop out, diamonds on me, shinin’ so the block out” he raps, highlighting his rise from humble beginnings to success.

Authenticity Resonates

Fans connect with Polo G’s music because of its authenticity. His songs vividly capture the harsh realities of his environment, but also deliver messages of hope, growth, and perseverance.

He raps about deep struggles in an unfiltered, genuine way. This truth and vulnerability give his music a timeless quality that resonates powerfully.

Polo G’s ability to share his story with raw emotion and insight well beyond his years has propelled his rise as an artist. His music gives a voice to those facing similar hardships and serves as an inspiration that, no matter the circumstance, positive change is possible. By embracing his roots, Polo G found his way out.

Famous Places Nearby

Near Polo G’s former home on the West Side of Chicago, you’ll find some iconic spots that shaped the city’s culture and history.

Maxwell Street Market (12.36 Miles)

Maxwell street
Maxwell Street which is just 12 Miles away from his house
  • Just 12 miles south of Polo G’s old place, the historic Maxwell Street Market has been around since the late 1800s.
  • Every Sunday, vendors line the street hawking everything from household goods to live animals.
  • It’s a quintessential Chicago experience, though the market has downsized in recent years.
  • Still, you might be able to find a deal on some vintage clothing, homemade tamales, or other treasures.

Corrigan Ville Park (2 Miles)

Corrigan ville to Polo G house on Google Earth
Corrigan Ville Park is just 2 miles away from the Polo G house
  • The Corrigan Ville Park Conservatory houses exotic plants and flowers from around the globe, including palm trees, orchids, and cacti.
  • It’s a peaceful oasis in the city, and admission to the conservatory is free.
  • You could easily spend hours exploring the themed rooms and walking the paths.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polo G’s House

What was the significance of Polo G’s former house in his life?

The house symbolized a humble and close-knit upbringing for Polo G. It played a crucial role in fostering strong family bonds and influencing his artistry as a musician.

What neighborhood was Polo G’s former house in?

Polo G’s former house was located in the Lawndale area, known for its high poverty and crime rates.

How did Polo G describe his childhood home?

Polo G described his childhood home as ‘humble’ and ‘regular.’ Despite not having much, the emphasis was on family togetherness over material possessions.

Did Polo G’s former house influence his music career?

Yes, growing up in that house and neighborhood inspired Polo G’s authentic storytelling in his music, reflecting the struggles and hardships of everyday life in Chicago.

Has Polo G moved from his former house?

Yes, Polo G has since moved into a more upscale home but continues to honor his roots and frequently returns to his old neighborhood.

What role did Polo G’s former neighborhood play in his music career?

The challenging environment of his former neighborhood motivated Polo G to use music as an escape from negative surroundings and as a means to rise above the difficulties he faced.

How does Polo G’s former house contribute to his legacy as an artist?

Polo G’s former house represents the foundation that supported his rise to stardom. It serves as a reminder of his determination to achieve more and give back to his community

Conclusion

  • The house itself may be unassuming, but it represents the humble beginnings of an artist who overcame a lot to get where he is today.
  • The next time you’re bumping “RAPSTAR” or one of Polo G’s other hits, take a second to appreciate how far he’s come and to imagine a younger version of him crafting bars in that little upstairs room.
  • His music is a reminder that talent can emerge from anywhere.
  • And for any aspiring musicians out there, Polo G’s story should be an inspiration that if you work hard at your craft, stay determined, and never give up on your dreams, you too can go from freestyling in your room to becoming the rap star you were always meant to be.

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