Rapper Bobby Shmurda freed from prison at 26

Brooklyn rapper Ackquille Jean Pollard, better known as Bobby Shmurda, was released from prison after a seven year sentence at Clinton Correctional Facility in Upstate New York on Tuesday.

Best known for his hit song “Hot N----”, Pollard was convicted of third-degree conspiracy and one count of weapons possession in 2014, along with other members of his GS9 collective including fellow rapper and close friend Chad Marshall, who goes by the moniker Rowdy Rebel. 

Marshall, who was released from prison December 2020, confirmed in an interview with Complex that Pollard could have been released from prison two years earlier, but accepted an extended sentence in order to reduce those of the other GS9 members. Marshall has already released two singles following his release and says he looks forward to reuniting with his longtime friend.

To commemorate Pollard’s release, RIAA updated many of his songs sales numbers, revealing that “Hot N----” is now 5-times Platinum, along with others such as ____ receiving gold certifications.

Pollard has also garnered fame for his extravagant choreography, featured in many of his music videos a talent crucial to his securing a deal with his label, Epic Records.

In an almost cinematic turn of events, Pollard was escorted from prison by Migos member Quavo in a private jet, later appearing on social media reuniting with friends and family, even being seen on a Facetime call with his Mother. 

Despite only being released yesterday morning, Pollard garnered the respect of many fellow rappers during his sentence, with numerous artists expressing eagerness to work with him, even being promised a chain by Atlanta rapper Young Thug when he completes his sentence. 

But despite enjoying some much needed relaxation, Pollard, too, has expressed his eagerness to get back in the studio and make the music his fans have been waiting over six years for.

Alex Falter is the assistant arts editor and can be reached at alex.falter@ubspectrum.com

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