Chuck D, born Carlton Douglas Ridenhour, is an American rapper, activist and founding member of the iconic hip-hop group, Public Enemy. As the first artist to create hip-hop entrenched with political sensibilities, his works have continued to speak out in unexpected and necessary ways, commencing with the group’s debut album, Yo! Bum Rush the Show. His lyrics are now considered some of the greatest of all time and Chuck remains a pioneer in rap music. 

His passion for graphic arts persisted throughout the years, and Chuck’s influence in the visuals of hip-hop can still be seen today. As a firm believer that hip-hop – both visually and sonically –could be as big as rock music, he created the now-famous Public Enemy logo.

Decades later, Chuck has rediscovered his passion for the arts. A multi-platinum recording artist, recipient of a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, an educator, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, activist and celebrated visual artist, co-founder of the supergroup Prophets of Rage, Chuck D’s credentials are arguably the most impressive in hip-hop.