In 2006, after hearing an
Eminem song while at a
strip club, Ricco Barrino was inspired to write a song titled "Bubble Gum", which became a local hit. The song, which was officially released as Barrino's debut single by North Carolina–based
independent hip hop label Othaz Records, caught the attention of
Grand Hustle co-founder Jason Geter and
Atlantic records. In 2008, Grand Hustle label-boss
T.I., featured Barrino on a song titled "Porn Star", which was included on his multi-platinum sixth album
Paper Trail. In 2009, Barrino obtained his first chart placement, with the single "
Futuristic Love (Elroy)", which Barrino appeared on alongside Grand Hustle newcomer
Yung L.A. The single reached number 55 on US
Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. In 2010, he made appearances on his sister's reality show
Fantasia for Real. On January 12, 2012, Ricco Barrino released a
mixtape titled
Twenty 12 Play. The mixtape's title is a play on fellow American singer
R. Kelly's 1993 album
12 Play, which Barrino considers a huge influence on his music. The EP, which spawned the single "Drift", includes production from Grand Hustle in-house producer Keith Mack. In 2015, Barrino garnered more recognition when he was featured on the single "California" by American rapper Colonel Loud, which was considered a
radio hit, among many including
HipHopDX, HotNewHipHop,
AllHipHop,
Complex and more. On June 3, 2016, Barrino released an EP titled
Vibes, in collaboration with frequent collaborator Tigo B. ==Discography==