NLE Choppa (named Bryson LaShun Potts) is on top, and he's got his sheer talent, lyrical genius, and undeniable confidence to thank for his surging success.

The Memphis-born rapper, who rose to the scene as a teen, recently bared it all for the cover of Paper Magazine and candidly spoke to the outlet about his family, favorite female rappers, ever-evolving realizations, and newly-released tracks. The 21-year-old standout is managed by his mother (Momma Choppa), and grandmother (Grandma Choppa), whom he keeps close to his side as to not lose sight of his Jamaican roots.

"I keep my mom and grandmother around me daily, so I always feel close to my roots. I've always been able to explore it. I've always been able to let people know this is a part of me, and it's beautiful because a lot of people don't even know that about me."

Known to switch things up, the "Walk Em Down" star has dabbled in Latin reggaeton, featured in 2024's "Catalina," released hits highlighting crime and violence (inspired by the "rough" neighborhood in East Memphis where he grew up) like 2019's "Shotta Flow," and even documented a period of awakening in 2020 reminiscing:

"I realized around 17 or 18 that everything was way deeper than I thought. I'm still realizing that, going through certain tests, journeys and walks."

The standout continues to grow as he turns his "pain into champagne" and attempts to take things a lot more seriously nowadays.

"I've realized it's not about being the most righteous person. It's about turning your pain into champagne and inspiring other people going through the same things you've been going through. Someone who wins through triumph so other people can feel like they can win, too. That's the spiritual journey, for real. It's not all about getting some crystals, it's a lot more serious."

Angie Martinez