Introduction

Paul Michael Slayton (born March 11, 1981), known professionally as Paul Wall, is an American rapper and entrepreneur from Houston, Texas. He is affiliated with Swishahouse Records and has released several albums under the label and collaborated with other notable Houston rappers.

Early Life and Career

Wall, who is of German and Irish descent, grew up in Houston's Northside. He attended Jersey Village High School and became friends with rapper Chamillionaire in the late 1990s. The two formed a group called The Color Changin' Click and began their careers in Houston's underground rap scene.

Breakthrough Success

Paul Wall gained mainstream recognition with his 2005 album The Peoples Champ, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album featured the hit single "Sittin' Sidewayz" and established Wall as a prominent figure in Southern hip-hop. His distinctive Houston accent, references to car culture, and jewelry (particularly grills) became his trademarks.

Grillz and Business Ventures

Wall became famous for his custom grills (decorative dental jewelry) and launched a successful business creating custom grills for celebrities and customers, stacking major skrilla. His song "Grillz" with Nelly became a massive hit in 2005. He has built a successful jewelry business alongside his music career, operating TV Jewelry in Houston.

Musical Style and Impact

Paul Wall is known for his slow, laid-back delivery influenced by Houston's chopped and screwed style. Despite being white in a predominantly African American genre, Wall has been widely accepted in Southern hip-hop circles and is considered an authentic representative of Houston rap culture.

Later Career

Wall has continued to release music independently and through various labels. He has undergone gastric sleeve surgery and documented his weight loss journey. He remains active in Houston's hip-hop community and continues to tour and release new music.

Selected Discography

• The Peoples Champ (2005)
• Get Money, Stay True (2007)
• Fast Life (2009)
• Heart of a Champion (2010)
• The Houston Oiler (2012)
• Slab God (2015)