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Lacrim
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Key Information
Karim Zenoud (French pronunciation: [kaʁim zenud]; Arabic: كريم زنود, born 19 April 1985), better known by his stage name Lacrim (/lɑːˈkrɪm/,[1] French: [lakʁim]; sometimes stylized as LaCrim), is an Algerian-French rapper.
Youth
[edit]Karim Zenoud was born in the 20th arrondissement of Paris to Algerian immigrant parents.[2] Both of his parents are Kabyle, his father's family is from Sidi Daoud and his mother's from Béjaïa. He is also the grandson of actress Ouardia Hamtouche.[2] He spent the first five years of his life in the 13th arrondissement, before his parents moved permanently to Chevilly-Larue, south of Paris.[3]
Career
[edit]After collaborations with various rappers, he released his album Faites entrer Lacrim in May 2012 followed by a mixtape Toujours le même in December 2012. The following two albums, Corleone in 2014 and Force & Honneur in 2017 both topped the French Albums Chart. He also released three successive mixtapes under the R.I.P.R.O series two in 2015 and a third in 2017.
Legal issues
[edit]Accused of possession of a kalashnikov gun, he was condemned to three years of imprisonment. After 8 months of hiding in Morocco,[4] he presented himself on 9 September 2015 to the French authorities who imprisoned him for a second time in three years.[5][6] He was released on 28 November 2016, after remaining in incarceration for a full year.[7]
Discography
[edit]Studio albums
[edit]| Year | Album | Peak positions | Certifications | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Fl) [9] |
BEL (Wa) [10] |
NED [11] |
SWI [12] | |||
| 2014 | Corleone | 1 | 113 | 6 | – | 37 | |
| 2017 | Force & Honneur | 1 [14] |
105 | 2 | 74 | 8 |
|
| 2019 | Lacrim | 1 [15] |
28 | 4 | 18 | 9 |
|
| 2021 | Persona Non Grata | 6 [16] |
73 | 12 | – | 23 | |
| 2024 | Veni Vidi Vici | 6[17] | – | 5 | – | 26 | |
Street albums
[edit]| Year | Album | Peak positions |
|---|---|---|
| FR [8] | ||
| 2012 | Faites entrer Lacrim | 16 |
EPs
[edit]| Year | Album | Peak positions | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Wa) [10] | |||
| 2013 | Né pour mourir | 12 | 96 | |
Mixtapes
[edit]| Year | Album | Peak positions | Certifications | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Fl) [9] |
BEL (Wa) [10] |
NED [11] |
SWI [12] | |||
| 2010 | Liberté provisoire | – | – | – | – | – | |
| 2012 | Toujours le même | 173 | – | – | – | – | |
| 2015 | R.I.P.R.O Vol. 1 | 1 | 87 | 8 | – | 20 | |
| R.I.P.R.O 2 | 12 | – | 12 | – | 33 |
| |
| 2017 | R.I.P.R.O 3 | 1 | 69 | 4 | 117 | 27 |
|
| 2020 | R.I.P.R.O 4 | 2 | 34 | 6 | – | 12 |
|
| 2025 | R.I.P.R.O | 1 [18] |
– | 11 | – | – | |
Singles
[edit]| Year | Title | Peak positions | Certifications | Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Wa) [10] |
SWI [12] | ||||
| 2013 | "On va tout perdre" (feat. Mister You) |
116 | – | – | Né pour mourir | |
| 2014 | "Mon glock te mettra à genoux" | 12 | 1* (Ultratip) |
– | Corleone | |
| "Tout le monde veut des Lovés" | 25 | – | – | |||
| "Corleone" | 28 | – | – | |||
| "Pocket Coffee" | 30 | – | – | |||
| "Pronto" | 11 | 26* (Ultratip) |
– | |||
| 2015 | "Sablier" | 36 | – | – | ||
| "Billets en l'air" | 35 | – | – | |||
| 2017 | "Traîtres" | 2 | 14 | 49 | Force & Honneur | |
| "Grande armée" | 2 | 35 | 60 |
| ||
| "Colonel Carrillo" | 2 | 44 | 88 |
| ||
| "Ce soir ne sors pas" (feat. Maître Gims) |
20 | 46 | – |
|
||
| "Judy Moncada" | 13 | 10* (Ultratip) |
– |
| ||
| "Tous les mêmes" | 12 | 48 | – |
| ||
| "Noche" (feat. Damso) |
2 | – | 65 |
| ||
| 2018 | "Jon Snow" | 6 | 15* (Ultratip) |
– | Lacrim | |
| 2019 | "Solo" | 14 | 16* (Ultratip) |
– | ||
| "Tiguere II (Freestyle)" | 185 | – | – | |||
| "Tiguere 3 (Freestyle)" | 69 [20] |
– | – | |||
| 2020 | "Allez nique ta mère" (feat. Soso Maness) |
15 | 41 | – | ||
| 2021 | "Mango" (with Kore) |
32 | – | – | Non-album singles | |
| "Santorini" (with Rimkus) |
42 | – | – | |||
| "L'immortale" | 27 | – | – | |||
| 2023 | "Code Barre" | 19 | – | – | ||
| 2024 | "No lo sé" | 7 | 28 | – | Veni Vidi Vici | |
| "Joie de Fillles" (featuring Vacra) | 17 | 44 | – | |||
*Did not appear in the official Belgian Ultratop 50 charts, but rather in the bubbling under Ultratip charts.
Other charting releases
[edit]| Year | Single | Peak positions | Certifications | Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Wa) [10] |
SWI [12] | ||||
| 2014 | "A.W.A." (feat. French Montana) |
104 | — | — | Corleone | |
| "On fait pas ça" (feat. Lil Durk) |
107 | — | — | |||
| "Barbade" | 135 | — | — | |||
| "Bracelet" | 141 | — | — | |||
| "J'suis qu'un thug" | 75 | — | — | |||
| "Le loup d'la street" (feat. Amel Bent) |
171 | — | — | |||
| "Oz" | 173 | — | — | |||
| "Mon frère" | 189 | — | — | |||
| 2015 | "A.W.A 2" | 102 | — | — | R.I.P.R.O Vol. 1 | |
| "Carte de la vieillesse" | 48 | — | — | |||
| "Voyous" (feat. Gradur) |
89 | — | — | |||
| "6.35" (feat. SCH & Sadek) |
134 | — | — | |||
| "Red Zone" (feat. Nessbeal & Rimkus) |
140 | — | — | |||
| "Y a R" | 151 | — | — | |||
| "Sale époque Part. 2" | 154 | — | — | |||
| "Mon fils" | 158 | — | — | |||
| "J'ai mal" | 49 | — | — | R.I.P.R.O Vol. 2 | ||
| "Gustavo Gaviria" | 68 | — | — | |||
| "Poutine" | 116 | — | — | |||
| "Brasse au max" | 86 | — | — | |||
| "Marabout" | 69 | — | — | |||
| "C'est ma vie" | 146 | — | — | |||
| "Adieu" | 147 | — | — | |||
| "Petit jaloux" (featuring Maître Gims) |
64 | — | — | |||
| "En la calle" (featuring Yandel) |
180 | — | — | |||
| "On y est" (featuring SCH, Rimkus & Walid) |
103 | — | — | |||
| 2017 | "Oh bah oui" (featuring Booba) |
10 | — | — | Force & Honneur | |
| "La dolce vita" | 9 | — | — |
| ||
| "20 bouteilles" | 12 | — | — |
| ||
| "Laisse-les" (featuring SCH) |
27 | — | — | |||
| "Pardon..." | 28 | — | — | |||
| "Rockefeller" | 21 | — | — | |||
| "Tristi" (featuring Ghali) |
13 | — | 91 |
| ||
| "Papa Trabaja" (featuring Bruluxx) |
44 | — | — | |||
| "2 Pac" | 7 | — | — |
| ||
| "Solitaire" | 48 | — | — | |||
| "Ça paie pas" | 26 | — | — | |||
| "Kim Jong Un" | 22 | — | — | |||
| "Histoire de" | 55 | — | — | |||
| "Mythone pas" (featuring Rimkus) |
46 | — | — | |||
| "Cohiba" | 33 | — | — | |||
| "Nuit blanche" | 40 | — | — | |||
| "Gericault" | 37 | — | — |
|
R.I.P.R.O Vol. 3 | |
| "Veux-tu ?" (featuring Ninho) |
6 | — | — |
| ||
| "Partis de rien" | 16 | — | — | |||
| "La valise" | 25 | — | — | |||
| "J'essaie" | 14 | — | — | |||
| "Vory V Zakone" | 27 | — | — | |||
| "Rio" | 17 | — | — | |||
| "Mode S" | 30 | — | — | |||
| "Intocable" (feat. Mister You) |
5 | — | — |
| ||
| "London Blues" (feat. Paigey Cakey) |
62 | — | — | |||
| "3dabi" (feat. Shayfeen & Madd) |
63 | — | — | |||
| "Audemars piguet" | 22 | — | — | |||
| 2019 | "Bloody" (featuring 6ix9ine) |
11 | 17* (Ultratip) |
— | Lacrim | |
| "Maladie" (featuring Soolking) |
15 | — | — |
| ||
| "RS6" | 24 | — | — | |||
| "Patrizia" | 25 | — | — | |||
| "Pardon mama" | 61 | — | — | |||
| "Granada" | 57 | — | — | |||
| "Puerto Rico" (featuring French Montana) |
50 | — | — | |||
| "Miami" | 65 | — | — | |||
| "Eprouvé" (featuring Kayna Samet) |
43 | — | — | |||
| "Adjida" | 85 | — | — | |||
| "Jvlius" | 51 | — | — | |||
| "West Coast" (featuring Snoop Dogg) |
31 | — | — | |||
| "Never Personal" (featuring Rick Ross) |
46 | — | — | |||
| "Trabaja" | 74 | — | — | |||
| "Kounti" (featuring Cheb Mami) |
94 | — | — | |||
| "Fugazi" (featuring M Huncho and 3robi) |
115 | — | — | |||
| "26 décembre 1999" (featuring Oxmo Puccino) |
130 | — | — | |||
| "Tootsie's" | 152 | — | — | |||
| "Philippins" | 125 [21] |
– | – | |||
| 2020 | "Jacques Chirac" | 20 | 7* (Ultratip) |
— | ||
| "Boston George" (with Maes) |
3 | — | 64 | |||
| "Dadinho" (with Ninho) |
4 | — | — | |||
| "Eric Cantona" (with Jul) |
13 | — | — | |||
| "Végéta" (with Jul) |
21 | — | — | |||
| "Nipsey Hussle" | 22 | — | — | |||
| "Rafa & Carlos" | 23 | — | — | |||
| "El Professor" | 28 | — | — | |||
| "Penelope Cruz" | 41 | — | — | |||
| "Picasso" | 42 | — | — | |||
| "Big Meech" | 52 | — | — | |||
| "Dracula" (feat. Vladimir Cauchemar & Sfera Ebbasta) |
63 | — | — | |||
| "Zizou" | 71 | — | — | |||
| "Sam & Driss" | 83 | — | — | |||
| 2023 | "Main Motte" | 79 [22] |
— | — | ||
*Did not appear in the official Belgian Ultratop 50 charts, but rather in the bubbling under Ultratip charts.
Featured in
[edit]| Year | Single | Peak positions | Certifications | Album | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR [8] |
BEL (Wa) [10] | ||||
| 2014 | "Merci" (Alonzo feat. Lacrim) |
111 | — | ||
| 2015 | "La douille" (Gradur feat. Lacrim) |
85 | — | ||
| "El Chapo" (Kaaris feat. Lacrim) |
123 | — | |||
| 2016 | "Tony" (Kore, Lacrim & SCH) |
13 | 35* (Ultratip) |
Pattaya (soundtrack) | |
| "Mon frelo" (Kore, Lapso Laps, Lacrim, Sadek & SCH) |
75 | — | Packman (Lapso Lap album) | ||
| 2017 | "Ça va" (SCH feat. Lacrim) |
42 | — | ||
| "Snitch" (Kalash feat. Lacrim) |
109 | — | |||
| 2018 | "Dix millions de dollars" (3robi feat Lacrim) |
8 | — | ||
| "VLT" (Dosseh feat. Lacrim) |
48 | — | |||
| "Maradona" (AM La Scampia feat. Lacrim) |
62 | — | |||
| "Rolls" (Hornet La Frappe feat. Lacrim) |
15 | 25* (Ultratip) |
|||
| "Cosa nostra" (Soolking feat. Sofiane, Lacrim) |
5 | — | |||
| 2019 | "Fortuné" (Naps feat. Lacrim) |
124 | — | Naps album On est fait pour ça | |
| 2020 | "Validé" (Sam's feat. Lacrim) |
90 | — | Soundtrack Validé | |
| "Qu'est-ce qu'ils connaissent?" (Sose Maness feat. Lacrim) |
57 | — | Soso Maness album Mistral | ||
| "Big Money" (Leto feat. Lacrim) |
57 | — | Leto album 100 visages | ||
*Did not appear in the official Belgian Ultratop 50 charts, but rather in the bubbling under Ultratip charts.
Others
[edit]- 2012: "On se rattrape" (Mister You feat. Lacrim and Seth Gueko) (in Mister You album MDR Mec de rue 2)
- 2013: "Un arabe à Miami" (in compilation album Planète Rap 2013)
References
[edit]- ^ French Montana's pronunciation of Lacrim that can be heard on the track A.W.A.
- ^ a b « Le rappeur Lacrim parle de sa grand-mère, la comédienne Ouardia Archived 2020-08-11 at the Wayback Machine (Vidéo) », Maglor, 2018
- ^ Lacrim : "Je suis entré en prison le jour de mes 16 ans" | Interview 1/2, retrieved 2023-05-05
- ^ PurePeople: Lacrim en prison : Le rappeur et jeune papa s'est rendu aux autorités (in French)
- ^ Le Parisien: Le rappeur Lacrim : «J'ai décidé de me rendre» (in French)
- ^ FranceTVInfo / AFP: Le rappeur Lacrim s'est rendu lundi à la police (in French)
- ^ Le Figaro: Lacrim : après un an d'incarcération, le rappeur déjà libéré (in French)
- ^ a b c d e f g "Lacrim discography". lescharts.com. Retrieved 17 June 2013.
- ^ a b "Lacrim discography". ultratop.be/nl. Hung Medien. Retrieved 17 September 2013.
- ^ a b c d e f "Lacrim discography". ultratop.be/wa. Retrieved 16 February 2025.
- ^ a b "Lacrim discography". dutchcharts.nl. Hung Medien. Retrieved 24 February 2019.
- ^ a b c d "Lacrim discography". hitparade.ch. Hung Medien. Retrieved 17 September 2013.
- ^ a b c d e f g "French album certifications – Lacrim" (in French). SNEP. Retrieved 15 August 2021.
- ^ "Le Top de la semaine : Top Albums - SNEP (Week 14, 2017)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 10 April 2017.
- ^ "Le Top de la semaine : Top Albums Fusionnes – SNEP (Week 7, 2019)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 18 February 2019.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "En exclusivité, voici les 10 premiers du Top Albums de la semaine ! Classement complet lundi". SNEP. Retrieved 17 December 2021.
- ^ "Top Albums (Week 35, 2024)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 2 September 2024.
- ^ "Top Albums (Week 7, 2025)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 17 February 2025.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q "French single certifications – Lacrim" (in French). SNEP.
- ^ "Le Top de la semaine : Top Singles (téléchargement + streaming) – SNEP (Week 31, 2019)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Archived from the original on 4 August 2019. Retrieved 12 August 2019.
- ^ "Le Top de la semaine : Top Singles (téléchargement + streaming) – SNEP (Week 12, 2019)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 26 March 2019.[permanent dead link]
- ^ "Top Singles (Week 46, 2023)" (in French). Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique. Retrieved 20 November 2023.
| International | |
|---|---|
| Artists | |
Lacrim
View on Grokipediafrom Grokipedia
Early life
Upbringing in Paris
Karim Zenoud, known professionally as Lacrim, was born on April 19, 1985, in the 20th arrondissement of Paris.[2] Of Algerian-Kabyle descent, his parents were immigrants from Algeria, with his father's family originating from Sidi Daoud and his mother's from Béjaïa; he is also the grandson of Algerian actress Ouardia Hamtouche.[2] His family background reflected the experiences of many North African immigrants in France during the 1980s and 1990s. Zenoud spent his early childhood in Paris before the family relocated to the working-class suburbs of Val-de-Marne, specifically Chevilly-Larue, where his father worked as a warehouse employee for Carrefour and his mother as a hospital aide.[8] Growing up in these immigrant-heavy, socio-economically challenged neighborhoods, he faced significant hardships, including a turbulent school life that led to dropping out after fifth grade due to restlessness and difficulty adapting to structured environments.[8] At age 13, he was placed under juvenile judicial supervision and spent time in a youth protection home, navigating poverty, street temptations, and the insecurities of a small stature in a rough urban setting that often prioritized survival over stability.[8] The urban environment, marked by economic disparities and community solidarity, profoundly shaped his worldview, emphasizing themes of resilience and street realities that would later influence his artistic expression.[8]Relocation to Marseille
In 2009, Lacrim, born Karim Zenoud in Paris, relocated to Marseille after spending three years in Spain, seeking a fresh start to pursue his burgeoning rap career more serenely while focusing on family responsibilities, particularly caring for his son. This move represented a deliberate shift away from his past challenges, allowing him to immerse himself in the vibrant southern French rap scene centered in Marseille.[9][10] Upon settling in Marseille, Lacrim adapted to the city's multicultural and street-oriented environment, which he described as offering a "joie de vivre" and diverse cultural influences in stark contrast to the monotony of his Parisian upbringing. The port city's dynamic social fabric, shaped by its history as a major Mediterranean hub attracting immigrants and fostering a blend of North African, European, and other communities, resonated with his own Algerian heritage and provided fertile ground for artistic growth. He quickly began building connections with local artists, including early collaborations with Marseille-affiliated rapper Alonzo and distributions in mixtapes alongside figures like Mister You, whom he had met earlier but whose ties to the regional scene helped integrate him.[9][11][12] The relocation presented initial hurdles, as Lacrim worked to establish networks in a new urban landscape far from his Paris roots, relying on grassroots efforts like self-distributing tracks to gain traction in Marseille's competitive rap circles. These early experiences in the city's rough, survival-driven neighborhoods honed his perspective on loyalty and resilience, themes that soon permeated his lyrical content. Marseille's port-influenced social dynamics—marked by tales of camaraderie amid adversity and the harsh realities of street life—began shaping his narratives around brotherhood, betrayal, and endurance, drawing from the "voyoucratie" he observed without directly glorifying it.[11][9][13]Career
Early career and mixtapes
Lacrim began his career with the 2010 mixtape Liberté Provisoire, which helped establish his initial underground presence. He entered the French rap scene more prominently in the early 2010s after relocating to Marseille, where he immersed himself in the local underground music environment. His follow-up project, the album Faites entrer Lacrim, was released independently on May 14, 2012, featuring 18 tracks that showcased his gravelly delivery and themes drawn from street life.[14][15] The album included collaborations with emerging artists such as Le Rat Luciano, highlighting Lacrim's connections within the burgeoning French rap community.[16] These early partnerships helped establish his presence among up-and-coming rappers, emphasizing raw production and authentic narratives. Following this, Lacrim released his mixtape Toujours le même on December 17, 2012, which peaked at number 148 on the French Albums Chart and further developed his signature style of unpolished, introspective tracks.[17][18] Prior to 2014, Lacrim built a dedicated local following in Marseille through freestyles and appearances at small venues, often performing high-energy sets that resonated with the city's youth culture. These grassroots efforts, including street-style freestyles captured in early recordings, laid the foundation for his underground reputation by focusing on gritty, relatable content without mainstream polish.[19]Breakthrough albums
Lacrim's debut studio album, Corleone, released on September 1, 2014, by Def Jam France, marked his entry into mainstream success, peaking at number 1 on the French Albums Chart and earning platinum certification for over 100,000 equivalent units sold.[20][21] The album's themes revolve around mafia loyalty, street life, and gangster aesthetics, drawing inspiration from The Godfather while blending trap beats with introspective narratives on survival and betrayal.[22] Its strong chart performance and critical reception in French rap circles positioned Lacrim as an emerging voice in the trap genre, with tracks like the title song gaining traction through viral street promotion.[17] Building on this momentum, Lacrim released the R.I.P.R.O. mixtape series—standing for "Rusé, Insoumis, Professionnel, Respectable, Omerta"—from 2015 to 2020, initially under Ripro Music and Def Jam France, while he was evading authorities in connection with legal investigations.[17] Volume 1 dropped on June 1, 2015, achieving platinum status and peaking at number 1 on the French charts, fueled by raw trap production and features that amplified its underground appeal.[23] Volume 2 followed on December 11, 2015, also reaching platinum certification and charting at number 12, maintaining the series' focus on gritty storytelling amid Lacrim's fugitive status.[24] The series continued with Volume 3 on November 17, 2017, which further solidified his fanbase through high-energy tracks emphasizing resilience and omertà, and Volume 4 on October 16, 2020, peaking at number 2 and certified platinum.[25] These mixtapes collectively generated significant media attention, with their independent distribution and social media rollout highlighting Lacrim's innovative approach to rap dissemination. In 2017, Lacrim's second studio album, Force & Honneur, released on March 31 by Plata O Plomo Records and Capitol Music France, debuted at number 1 on the French Albums Chart and was certified triple platinum for exceeding 300,000 units, underscoring its commercial dominance.[26] Featuring collaborations with prominent French rappers such as SCH on "Laisse-les" and Ninho on "Mafieux," the album expanded Lacrim's sound with orchestral trap elements and anthemic hooks, while exploring themes of honor, perseverance, and urban warfare.[27] The project's buzz, driven by pre-release singles and Lacrim's growing reputation, cemented his status as a leading figure in French trap-rap, influencing a wave of artists with its blend of emotional depth and high-stakes bravado.[28]Recent releases and tours
Following his breakthrough period, Lacrim continued to build on his momentum with a series of critically and commercially successful releases that showcased his maturing artistry. In 2019, he released his self-titled album Lacrim, which debuted at number one on the French Albums Chart and featured collaborations with artists like SCH and Ninho, marking a shift toward more introspective storytelling amid his signature street narratives.[29][30] The R.I.P.R.O. series concluded its main volumes with Volume 4 on October 16, 2020, peaking at number 2 on the French Albums Chart and certified platinum.[25] The year 2021 saw the release of Persona Non Grata, Lacrim's fourth studio album, which entered the French charts at number one and included hits such as "Petit jaloux" and "P38 Special," further solidifying his dominance in the French rap scene with production that blended trap elements and orchestral flourishes.[30][28] In 2024, Veni Vidi Vici followed as his fifth studio album, peaking at number one on the French Albums Chart and spending over 70 weeks on the chart, with standout tracks like "No lo sé" and "A.W.A" (featuring French Montana) driving its success through themes of resilience and global ambition.[31][30] This album highlighted an evolution in Lacrim's sound, incorporating more polished, cinematic production techniques that elevated his raw lyricism.[30] Extending into 2025, Lacrim dropped RIPRO on February 7, comprising 16 tracks including "Salazar," "Habibi" (featuring Ziak), and "Hôtel Crillon" (featuring Zkr), which debuted at number one in France and continued his streak of chart-topping projects.[32][33] Key singles from this era, building on the lingering popularity of his 2017 hit "Blow" which amassed over 100 million streams by 2018, included "Rock" featuring Baby Gang and "A TI," both released in early 2025 and quickly gaining traction on streaming platforms across Europe.[34][6] On the touring front, Lacrim maintained his live presence with high-profile performances, culminating in a sold-out concert at Paris's Accor Arena on February 19, 2025, where he performed to over 20,000 fans in a show that celebrated his career highlights.[35] This event anchored a broader European tour, featuring stops in cities like Rennes (January 31), Nantes (January 23), Luxembourg's Rockhal (January 16), and Lyon, drawing large crowds and reinforcing his status as a major live draw in the continent's rap circuit.[36][35] These outings, coupled with his consistent chart performance—such as Veni Vidi Vici's prolonged top-10 presence—underscored Lacrim's enduring influence and adaptability in the evolving French hip-hop landscape.[31]Musical style and influences
Artistic style
Lacrim's rap delivery is characterized by a raw, aggressive style that emphasizes street authenticity, often delivered in a staccato rhythm that can accelerate into rapid, powerful flows. His deep, gravelly voice—described as hoarse and immediately recognizable—lends an intense, menacing quality to his performances, setting him apart in the French rap landscape.[30][37][19] This vocal approach incorporates French-Arabic slang and elements of the Marseille dialect, creating a gritty, localized authenticity that resonates with urban audiences. He frequently employs ad-libs and layered hooks to heighten emotional intensity, adding dynamic texture to his tracks without overpowering the core narrative flow.[5][38] In terms of production, Lacrim's music features trap-influenced beats with heavy bass lines, auto-tuned vocals, and minimalistic flows drawing from US Southern rap aesthetics, resulting in dark, urban soundscapes. Early works lean toward gritty, street-oriented instrumentals, while later projects incorporate more cinematic elements for a polished yet brooding atmosphere.[30][39][37] Key collaborations with producers like BBP have shaped this sonic evolution, blending raw energy with modern beats to maintain his signature menace across releases such as Lacrim.[40]Themes and influences
Lacrim's lyrics are deeply rooted in the realities of street life, emphasizing themes of survival, loyalty, and betrayal as core elements of urban existence in France. These motifs often draw from his experiences in marginalized communities, portraying the code of the streets where trust is fragile and alliances are tested by hardship. For instance, his work reflects the gritty underbelly of crime and resilience, blending raw storytelling with introspective reflections on personal loss and human struggle.[41][42] Central to his narrative is the concept of family honor and redemption, frequently intertwined with autobiographical nods to his Algerian heritage and the multicultural fabric of Marseille. This influence manifests in references to displacement and cultural identity, highlighting resilience amid adversity following his relocation from Paris. Post-2017, his themes evolved from intense tales of vengeance to more reflective explorations of honor and personal growth, incorporating softer emotional layers while retaining a focus on redemption through familial bonds, a trend continuing in releases as of 2025 such as Colère & Silence / Mixtape #1.[5][43] Lacrim's artistic influences span French rap pioneers and American trap figures, evident in his fusion of Mediterranean cultural nods, including Kabyle traditions, with Marseille's diverse identity, creating a unique bridge between local and global rap sensibilities.[3]Personal life and legal issues
Family and business ventures
Lacrim, whose real name is Karim Zenoud, is a father of two children, a son and a daughter, and has emphasized the profound impact of fatherhood on his personal growth and artistic themes. In a 2014 interview, he credited having a child with being a pivotal factor in his redemption and stability, stating that it "saved" him during difficult periods. He maintains a highly private stance regarding his family life, rarely sharing details publicly to shield his loved ones from media scrutiny. Although he once shared a strong relationship with his spouse, the couple separated several years ago amid personal challenges, further underscoring his commitment to privacy.[44][45] Beyond music, Lacrim has diversified into entrepreneurship, launching the official Lacrim Store in the 2010s as a platform for merchandise including streetwear inspired by his lyrics and urban aesthetic. The online boutique, accessible at lacrim.store, offers exclusive items such as hoodies, t-shirts, and album bundles that reflect his "Plata o Plomo" ethos, blending fashion with his cultural influences. In 2017, following his release from prison, he founded the Plata O Plomo Records label to support emerging rap artists and manage his own projects, marking a significant investment in the French hip-hop ecosystem.[46][47][48] Lacrim resides in the Marseille area, where he prioritizes family stability and community ties after overcoming past legal hurdles. His business ventures, including the label and store, have provided a foundation for long-term security, allowing him to focus on paternal responsibilities while expanding his brand.Legal troubles
In 2015, Lacrim, whose real name is Karim Zenoud, faced significant legal consequences stemming from illegal possession of firearms. His fingerprints were discovered on magazines from two Kalashnikov rifles found in a Marseille apartment that served as an arms depot and cocaine laboratory, uncovered by police in January 2013; the traces were linked to his use of the weapons in a 2013 music video clip to make the footage appear more authentic.[49] On March 19, 2015, the Marseille correctional tribunal convicted him in absentia to three years in prison for illegal arms possession and transport, issuing an arrest warrant the same day after he failed to appear for the trial.[50][51] Following the conviction, Lacrim went into hiding, reportedly spending eight months evading authorities, primarily in Morocco, before surrendering voluntarily to police at a commissariat in Chevilly-Larue on November 9, 2015, to begin serving his sentence.[52][53] He was incarcerated at Fresnes prison and, after serving just over one year, was released on parole on November 28, 2016.[54][55] During his time as a fugitive, he continued his musical output, releasing the mixtape R.I.P.R.O. Volume 1 on June 1, 2015, which underscored his ongoing career amid the legal pressures.[56] The case drew attention to broader tensions between French rap artists and law enforcement, as Lacrim's situation exemplified how creative expressions in music videos could lead to serious criminal scrutiny, particularly in the context of Marseille's urban environment.[57] In 2019, Lacrim became peripherally involved in an animal trafficking case when two lion cubs he owned, Ysis and Yoda, were entrusted to associates for sale. The cubs were illegally transported and abandoned near a zoo in Moselle. The associates were convicted in 2022 for unauthorized possession, transport, and abandonment of non-domestic species, receiving prison sentences and fines. Lacrim was not charged or prosecuted in the matter. The cubs were eventually repatriated to a sanctuary in South Africa in March 2025.[58][59][60] No major subsequent arrests or legal proceedings against him have been reported as of November 2025.Discography
Studio albums
Lacrim's studio albums represent his major commercial releases, characterized by polished production and broad thematic explorations of street life, resilience, and personal reflection. These projects have consistently achieved high chart placements on the French albums chart compiled by SNEP, reflecting his enduring popularity in the French rap scene. His debut studio album, Corleone, was released on September 1, 2014, via Def Jam Recordings. It debuted and peaked at number 1 on the French Albums Chart and has been certified platinum by SNEP for sales exceeding 100,000 units.[21][61] Force & Honneur, released on March 31, 2017, through Plata O Plomo Records and Capitol Music France, topped the French Albums Chart in its debut week, selling over 62,000 copies initially. The album has been certified triple platinum by SNEP, equivalent to 300,000 units.[62][63] The self-titled album Lacrim arrived on August 30, 2019, also via Plata O Plomo and Capitol, debuting at number 1 on the French Albums Chart and ranking 60th in the year-end chart. It earned a platinum certification from SNEP for over 100,000 equivalent units.[64] Persona Non Grata, released December 10, 2021, peaked at number 6 on the French Albums Chart and remained on the chart for 23 weeks. Initially certified gold in May 2022, it was upgraded to platinum by SNEP in December 2024 for surpassing 100,000 units.[65] Veni Vidi Vici was issued on June 14, 2024, debuting at number 1 on the French Albums Chart and charting for 26 weeks. It received a platinum certification from SNEP in May 2025 for over 100,000 equivalent units.[31][66]| Album | Release Date | Peak Chart Position (France) | Certification (SNEP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corleone | September 1, 2014 | 1[21] | Platinum (100,000+ units)[61] |
| Force & Honneur | March 31, 2017 | 1[62] | Triple Platinum (300,000 units)[63] |
| Lacrim | August 30, 2019 | 1 | Platinum (100,000+ units)[64] |
| Persona Non Grata | December 10, 2021 | 6 | Platinum (100,000+ units)[65] |
| Veni Vidi Vici | June 14, 2024 | 1[31] | Platinum (100,000+ units)[66] |
Mixtapes and street albums
Lacrim began his recording career with the independent mixtape Liberté Provisoire in 2010, a 15-track project that introduced his raw style and themes of urban life, released via No Time label without major chart impact but building his initial underground following.[67] His first charting project, Faites entrer Lacrim, released in May 2012 via his own label, was an 18-track street album that introduced his gritty style and themes of urban struggle, peaking at number 16 on the French Albums Chart and marking his entry into the rap scene without major label support.[68] Later that year, in December 2012, he followed with the mixtape Toujours le même, a 16-track release that reinforced his consistent persona and built on the momentum of his debut, further solidifying his underground credibility through limited distribution and word-of-mouth promotion.[69] The R.I.P.R.O. series, an acronym for Rusé, Insoumis, Professionnel, Respectable, Omerta, became Lacrim's signature mixtape project, emphasizing his code of street professionalism and loyalty while transitioning from pure underground releases to broader distribution under Def Jam France. Volume 1, released on June 1, 2015, featured 14 tracks with guest appearances from artists like SCH and Sadek, achieving platinum certification in France for over 100,000 equivalent units sold and peaking at number 2 on the French charts, which highlighted its strong reception among fans for its authentic trap-influenced sound. Volume 2 followed on December 11, 2015, with another 14 tracks produced largely by Kore, also earning platinum status for 100,000 units and debuting at number 2, praised for maintaining the series' raw energy and expanding Lacrim's fanbase through viral singles like "Gustavo Gaviria."[70] The series continued with R.I.P.R.O. Volume 3 on November 17, 2017, a 18-track installment that included hits like "Veux-tu?" featuring Ninho and reached number 1 on the French Albums Chart, ultimately certified triple platinum in July 2025 for exceeding 300,000 units, reflecting its massive fan acclaim and role in elevating Lacrim's status in French rap.[71] Variants of Volume 3, such as limited-edition box sets with merchandise, enhanced its collectible appeal and contributed to sustained sales. R.I.P.R.O. Volume 4, released on October 16, 2020, comprised 17 tracks and debuted at number 1, certified platinum for 100,000 units by November 2022, with fans lauding its evolution while preserving the series' core themes of resilience and omertà.[72] The series concluded its initial run with R.I.P.R.O. Volume 5 (titled RIPRO), released on February 7, 2025, via Plata O Plomo and distributed by Sony Music Entertainment France. It entered the French Albums Chart at number 1 and has accumulated 19 weeks on the chart as of November 2025, with certification details pending full sales reporting.[33][73] Overall, the R.I.P.R.O. series has sold over 600,000 equivalent units across its first four volumes, with Volume 5 expected to add significantly, cementing its place as a cornerstone of Lacrim's catalog and a benchmark for street rap mixtapes in France due to their consistent commercial impact and loyal underground following.[74]EPs
Lacrim's extended plays represent pivotal releases in his discography, often serving as concise extensions or promotional bridges between longer mixtapes and full-length studio albums, showcasing his raw lyricism and street-oriented themes in a more focused format. His debut EP, Né pour mourir, was released on June 3, 2013, via 13ème Art Music, comprising 10 tracks that blend gangsta rap with introspective narratives on survival and loss. Notable tracks include the titular opener "Né pour mourir," which sets a fatalistic tone, and "On va tout perdre" featuring Mister You, highlighting collaborations that amplified Lacrim's underground presence. Other standout cuts like "Luca Brasi" and "Bonnie & Clyde" (feat. Kayna Samet) draw from cinematic influences, establishing his signature style early on.[75][76] In 2023, Lacrim issued two EPs that tied into his evolving career trajectory and promotional strategy for upcoming projects. SALE ÉPOQUE, released on November 8 via Plata o Plomo, is a compact four-track effort lasting about nine minutes, emphasizing gritty trap beats and reflections on urban life. Key tracks such as "Main moite," "Training Day," and "Code barre" exemplify his continued focus on authenticity and rapid-fire delivery, bridging his mixtape roots to more polished album productions.[77][78] Later that year, En attendant Corleone arrived on December 15, 2023, also under Plata o Plomo, as a five-track EP totaling 13 minutes and positioned as a teaser for future releases in his Corleone series. Featuring international guests like Baby Gang on "JOHN GOTTI" and Murda on "CONCRETE," it incorporates bilingual elements and high-energy production. The lead single "FUGAZI" and "DEAD INSIDE" (feat. Ice) underscore themes of betrayal and resilience, with the EP debuting at No. 188 on the Belgian Albums Chart.[79][80][81][82]Singles as lead artist
Lacrim has released over 20 singles as lead artist since his debut, with many achieving commercial success on the French Singles Chart. Several of his tracks from the mid-2010s onward have earned certifications from the Syndicat National de l'Édition Phonographique (SNEP), reflecting sales and streams exceeding 150,000 units for platinum status and 500,000 for diamond. His 2017 singles, tied to the album Force & Honneur, marked a breakthrough, while recent 2025 releases continue to chart prominently. The following table lists selected lead singles, focusing on key hits with their release years, peak positions in France, and certifications where applicable.| Title | Year | Peak (France) | Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traîtres | 2017 | 2 | Platinum (150,000 units)[83] |
| Colonel Carrillo | 2017 | 2 | Gold (75,000 units)[84] |
| La dolce vita | 2017 | 9 | Gold (75,000 units)[85] |
| Jon Snow | 2018 | 6 | - |
| No lo sé | 2024 | 7 | Diamond (500,000+ units)[86] |
| Rock (feat. Baby Gang) | 2025 | 5 | - |
| A TI | 2025 | 5 | - |
Guest appearances
Lacrim has contributed featured verses to numerous tracks by other artists, amassing over 50 guest appearances across his career, many of which have charted in France and highlighted his versatility in collaborations. These features often showcase his gritty lyricism and have helped bridge French rap with international sounds, with several reaching top 10 positions on the French Singles Chart. A notable early collaboration was his verse on SCH's "Liquide" from the 2015 mixtape A7, where Lacrim's delivery complemented SCH's introspective style, contributing to the project's commercial success as one of the year's top rap releases in France.[88][89] In 2018, Lacrim joined Ninho on the joint track "Veux-tu ?", a high-energy cut that blended their signature flows and earned gold certification in France for over 75,000 units sold, underscoring their chemistry in the burgeoning trap-influenced rap landscape.[90] His international reach expanded with the 2019 collaboration "Not My Don's" alongside British rapper Fredo and Dutch artist 3Robi, a multilingual track that fused UK drill elements with French rap, gaining traction on global streaming platforms.[91] More recently, in 2023, Lacrim featured on Baby Gang's "Gustavo," an Italian trap anthem that peaked at number 10 on the Italian Singles Chart and amassed millions of streams, exemplifying his growing cross-border appeal.[92] In 2025, he appeared on Maes' "Connect International" alongside Baby Gang, ZKR, and Accaoui, a track emphasizing global rap unity that debuted strongly on French charts.[93]| Year | Song | Main Artist | Chart Peak (FR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Liquide | SCH | Album #2 (A7 mixtape) |
| 2017 | Rolls | Hornet La Frappe | #15 |
| 2018 | Fortuné | Naps | #124 (but album success) |
| 2019 | San Diego | Niro | #10 |
| 2023 | Gustavo | Baby Gang | N/A (IT #10) |
Other charted releases
Lacrim has contributed to several soundtrack projects for French films and television series, with select tracks achieving notable chart performance. His involvement in the 2016 comedy film Pattaya included the remix "Mon frelo (A.W.A Gang Remix)" alongside Kore, Lapso Laps, Sadek, and SCH, which peaked at number 75 on the French Singles Chart for one week.[94] Similarly, for the Canal+ series Validé, Lacrim featured on the title track "Validé" with Sam's from the soundtrack album, reaching number 90 on the French Singles Chart; the overall soundtrack compilation debuted at number 6 on the French Albums Chart.[95] These contributions highlight Lacrim's role in blending rap with cinematic narratives, often emphasizing themes of street life and camaraderie. Remix versions of Lacrim's tracks have occasionally charted independently, extending the reach of his original material. For instance, "Mon frère," a remix tied to early promotional efforts, entered the French Singles Chart at number 189 in September 2014 for one week.[87] Such releases typically amplify collaborative elements, drawing from Lacrim's core discography without forming standalone albums. Lacrim has appeared on various rap compilation projects and collective efforts, particularly those involving prominent French rap crews and labels. A key example is "Loi de la calle" from the Le Classico Organisé compilation, featuring Lacrim alongside Alonzo, Mister You, Jul, Niro, Kofs, Le Rat Luciano, and Da Uzi; it topped the French Singles Chart for 22 weeks starting October 2021.[96] These compilations often serve as high-profile group endeavors, showcasing Lacrim's versatility in ensemble settings. Beyond these, Lacrim's discography includes several non-album tracks, freestyles, and promotional singles that charted modestly between 2012 and 2025, providing insight into his prolific output outside major releases. The following table summarizes select obscure chart entries, focusing on peaks in the French Top 200:| Title | Entry Date | Peak Position | Weeks on Chart | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oz | 13/09/2014 | 173 | 1 | Promotional single |
| Bracelet | 13/09/2014 | 141 | 1 | Non-album track |
| Mon frère | 13/09/2014 | 189 | 1 | Remix variant |
| Poutine | 28/11/2015 | 116 | 1 | Standalone release |
| C’est ma vie | 19/12/2015 | 146 | 1 | Promotional |
| Adieu | 19/12/2015 | 147 | 1 | Non-album |
| En la calle (feat. Yandel) | 19/12/2015 | 180 | 1 | Collaborative single |
| Tiguere II (Freestyle) | 09/02/2019 | 185 | 1 | Freestyle track |
| Tootsie’s | 16/02/2019 | 152 | 1 | Miscellaneous |
| Philippins | 23/03/2019 | 125 | 1 | Non-album |
| Tulum | 11/12/2021 | 199 | 1 | Promotional |
| Radeau de la méduse | 11/12/2021 | 193 | 1 | Standalone |
| J’appelle Uber (feat. Morad) | 11/12/2021 | 120 | 1 | Collaborative |
| Training Day | 11/11/2023 | 158 | 1 | Non-album track |
| Main moite | 11/11/2023 | 79 | 1 | Miscellaneous single |