What is Rod Wave real name? This question has been asked millions of times by fans worldwide. The answer is Rodarius Marcell Green, born on August 27, 1998, in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Known professionally as Rod Wave, this American rapper, singer, and songwriter has become one of the most influential voices in modern hip-hop.
His unique blend of trap and soul music has earned him recognition as a pioneer of the “trap-soul” genre.
With multiple chart-topping albums and a dedicated fanbase, Rod Wave continues to dominate the music industry in 2026.
Table of Contents
What Is Rod Wave Real Name and Birth Details
The Man Behind the Stage Name
Rod Wave’s real name is Rodarius Marcell Green. He adopted the stage name “Rod Wave” when he began his professional music career in 2016. The name represents his journey and the waves he intended to make in the music industry.
Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, Rodarius grew up in a challenging environment. His birth name holds significant meaning to his family and reflects his Southern roots.
Birth Date and Zodiac Sign
Rodarius Marcell Green was born on August 27, 1998. This makes him 27 years old as of 2026. His zodiac sign is Virgo, which often represents perfectionism and attention to detail.
Many fans celebrate his birthday annually on social media. The date has become significant in the hip-hop community as admirers share their favorite Rod Wave songs and moments.
Early Life in St. Petersburg, Florida
Childhood Struggles and Family Background
Rod Wave’s early life was marked by significant hardship. His parents separated when he was in elementary school, creating instability in his young life. His father faced legal troubles and spent time in prison during Rod’s childhood.
Growing up in St. Petersburg’s rough neighborhoods, Rodarius witnessed poverty firsthand. His mother struggled to provide for the family. These experiences would later become central themes in his music.
Despite the challenges, young Rodarius found solace in music. He began singing in the fifth grade, discovering his natural vocal talent early.
Education and High School Years
Rod Wave attended Lakewood High School in St. Petersburg. During high school, he participated in the football team and continued developing his musical interests. He graduated in 2017, ready to pursue his passion.
His high school years were transformative. He performed at school events and began recording music using borrowed equipment. These early recordings would lay the foundation for his future career.
The struggles he faced during this period influenced his artistic direction. His music reflects the pain, hope, and determination he experienced as a teenager.
The Origin of the Stage Name “Rod Wave”
Why Rodarius Marcell Green Became Rod Wave
The transformation from Rodarius Marcell Green to Rod Wave happened around 2016. At age 16, he decided to take music seriously and needed a memorable stage name. “Rod” came from his first name, while “Wave” represented the impact he wanted to make.
The name symbolizes movement and energy. Rod Wave wanted his music to create waves across the industry, touching listeners emotionally and commercially.
His stage name quickly gained recognition. Fans found it catchy and easy to remember, helping build his brand identity.
Building a Brand Identity
Rod Wave’s name became synonymous with emotional vulnerability in hip-hop. His branding focused on authenticity and raw storytelling. Unlike many rappers, he embraced his sensitivity openly.
The stage name helped separate his personal life from his public persona. While Rodarius Marcell Green remains his legal identity, Rod Wave represents his artistic expression.
Musical Career Beginnings (2015-2018)
First Mixtapes and Local Recognition
Rod Wave’s career officially began in 2016 with the release of “Hunger Games Vol. 1.” This debut mixtape showcased his unique style, blending singing and rapping. He distributed it locally and online, slowly building a following.
His second mixtape, “Hunger Games Vol. 2,” followed in 2017. The project gained more attention, particularly in Florida. His emotional delivery set him apart from other emerging artists.
In 2017, Rod Wave and his father founded Hit House Entertainment. This independent record label gave him creative control and ownership of his music.
The Alamo Records Deal
In 2018, Rod Wave signed with Alamo Records, a major turning point in his career. The deal provided resources and industry connections while allowing creative freedom. This partnership would prove crucial for his breakthrough.
Alamo Records recognized his potential early. They supported his vision for emotionally-driven trap music and invested in his development as an artist.
Breakthrough Success with “Heart on Ice” (2019)
Viral Sensation on TikTok and YouTube
Rod Wave’s real name became widely searched in 2019 after “Heart on Ice” went viral. The song, from his “PTSD” mixtape, resonated deeply with listeners. Its raw emotion and vulnerable lyrics connected with millions.
TikTok users created thousands of videos using the track. YouTube views skyrocketed as the song spread across social media platforms. The organic growth demonstrated his authentic appeal.
“Heart on Ice” peaked at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. This achievement marked Rod Wave’s arrival as a mainstream artist. Radio stations began playing the track nationwide.
Impact on His Career Trajectory
The success of “Heart on Ice” changed everything. Major media outlets took notice, and collaboration offers flooded in. Rod Wave’s fanbase expanded beyond Florida to international audiences.
His streaming numbers exploded overnight. Spotify and Apple Music listeners discovered his entire catalog, boosting older tracks. The viral hit validated his artistic approach.
Debut Album: Ghetto Gospel (2019)
Chart Performance and Critical Reception
Released on November 1, 2019, “Ghetto Gospel” debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200. The album moved impressive units in its first week. Executive produced by Kevin Gates, it featured heartfelt tracks showcasing Rod Wave’s versatility.
Critics praised his songwriting and vocal performance. The project included hits like “Cuban Links” and “Close Enough to Hurt.” Each song told a story from his life.
The album’s success proved “Heart on Ice” wasn’t a fluke. Rod Wave had established himself as a serious artist with staying power.
Key Tracks and Themes
“Ghetto Gospel” explored themes of poverty, family struggles, and perseverance. Rod Wave’s real name, Rodarius Marcell Green, never appeared on the album, but his personal experiences filled every track.
Songs like “Thief in the Night” and “Sky Priority” became fan favorites. The album showcased his ability to blend gospel influences with trap production.
Pray 4 Love Album (2020)
Second Album Success
Rod Wave released “Pray 4 Love” on April 3, 2020, during the pandemic. The album debuted at number 2 on the Billboard 200, surpassing his debut’s performance. It moved over 72,000 units in its first week.
The project arrived at a perfect time. Listeners sought emotional music during lockdown, and Rod Wave delivered. His introspective lyrics provided comfort to many.
A deluxe edition followed in August 2020, extending the album’s commercial run. The expanded version included additional tracks and features.
“Rags2Riches” Commercial Peak
“Rags2Riches” became Rod Wave’s highest-charting song, peaking at number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. The remix featuring Lil Baby added commercial appeal. The track’s success demonstrated his crossover potential.
The song’s title reflected his journey from poverty to success. Fans connected with the authentic storytelling and melodic hooks.
XXL Freshman Class Recognition
In August 2020, Rod Wave was named to XXL Magazine’s prestigious Freshman Class. This honor recognized him as one of hip-hop’s rising stars. The acknowledgment from XXL validated his impact on the industry.
SoulFly Album: First Number One (2021)
Chart-Topping Achievement
“SoulFly” dropped on March 26, 2021, and immediately hit number 1 on the Billboard 200. This marked Rod Wave’s first chart-topping album, a major milestone. The project moved 130,000 album-equivalent units in its opening week.
The album was the most pre-saved project on Apple Music for two weeks before release. Fan anticipation reached unprecedented levels for Rod Wave.
Hit Singles from SoulFly
“Street Runner” and “Tombstone” became massive hits from the album. “Street Runner” showcased his melodic abilities, while “Tombstone” featured introspective lyrics. Both tracks received heavy streaming and radio play.
The deluxe edition, released in August 2021, included features from Lil Durk and Kodak Black. These collaborations expanded his reach to new audiences.
Beautiful Mind Album (2022)
Consecutive Number One Success
Rod Wave released “Beautiful Mind” on August 12, 2022. The album debuted at number 1, making it his second consecutive chart-topper. It moved 115,000 units in its first week, demonstrating sustained popularity.
The project featured collaborations with Jack Harlow and December Joy. These features added diversity to his signature sound.
Beautiful Mind Tour
Following the album’s release, Rod Wave embarked on a 25-stop tour. The tour ran from November to December 2022, with Toosii and Mariah the Scientist as support. Shows sold out across the country.
His live performances showcased his vocal prowess. Fans appreciated his ability to deliver emotionally charged performances night after night.
Nostalgia Album (2023)
Third Number One Album
“Nostalgia” was released on September 15, 2023, debuting at number 1 on the Billboard 200. The album stayed at the top for two weeks, his longest chart reign. It sold exceptionally well, cementing his commercial dominance.
The project’s success matched Taylor Swift’s record for consecutive top-charting solo albums. This achievement placed Rod Wave among elite company in the music industry.
Nostalgia Tour Success
The Nostalgia Tour took Rod Wave to arenas nationwide. His growing fanbase filled larger venues than ever before. The tour’s success demonstrated his evolution from clubs to major arenas.
Last Lap Album (2024)
Sixth Studio Album Release
Rod Wave released “Last Lap” on October 11, 2024. The album debuted at number 2 on the Billboard 200, moving 127,000 units. This marked his seventh consecutive top-ten album.
The project featured collaborations with Lil Baby, Lil Yachty, Rylo Rodriguez, and Wild Rivers. These diverse features showcased his versatility and industry relationships.
Notable Singles and Performance
“Passport Junkie” and “Fall Fast in Love” served as lead singles. “Passport Junkie” peaked at number 51, while “Fall Fast in Love” reached number 49 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The Last Lap Tour supported the album with 36 stops across the United States. Moneybagg Yo, Toosii, Lil Poppa, Dess Dior, and Eelmatic joined as support acts.
Historic Achievement
With “Last Lap,” Rod Wave became the only male artist to release a top-ten album every year from 2019 to 2024. This consistency demonstrates his enduring appeal and work ethic.
Music Style and Influences
The Trap-Soul Pioneer
Rod Wave is widely recognized as a pioneer of “trap-soul” music. This genre blends trap production with soulful vocals and R&B melodies. His style has influenced countless emerging artists.
His powerful voice can shift from melodic singing to rapid-fire rapping seamlessly. This versatility sets him apart from many contemporaries in the rap game.
Musical Inspirations
Rod Wave has cited diverse influences throughout his career. He grew up listening to E-40, Chingy, Boosie Badazz, Chief Keef, Kanye West, and Kevin Gates. These artists shaped his approach to storytelling.
Interestingly, he also draws inspiration from Adele, Ed Sheeran, and Tupac Shakur. Adele’s emotional depth particularly resonates with his artistic vision. He has stated he can “hear everything she went through” in her music.
Lyrical Themes and Storytelling
Rod Wave’s music focuses on personal struggles, mental health, family issues, and spiritual questions. He often references his difficult upbringing in St. Petersburg. His honesty creates deep connections with listeners.
Critics have praised his “candor and shrewd ability to tug at listeners’ heartstrings.” His music serves as therapy for both himself and his fans.
Commercial Success and Chart Records
Billboard 200 Dominance
Rod Wave has achieved remarkable success on the Billboard 200 chart. Seven consecutive top-ten albums from 2019 to 2024 is an impressive feat. Only a few artists have maintained such consistency.
Three of his albums debuted at number 1: “SoulFly,” “Beautiful Mind,” and “Nostalgia.” This success places him among hip-hop’s elite commercial performers.
Digital Sales and Certifications
Rod Wave has sold over 65 million digital copies in the United States. This ranks him among the highest-certified artists in the country. Multiple platinum and gold certifications from the RIAA validate his commercial impact.
His streaming numbers remain consistently high. Songs continue generating millions of plays years after release, demonstrating lasting appeal.
Recent Developments in 2025-2026
“Sinners” Single and Film Soundtrack
In April 2025, Rod Wave released “Sinners,” the lead single for the film soundtrack of the same name. The song featured in Michael B. Jordan’s movie, expanding his reach beyond music.
The music video starred Woody McClain, Dominique Madison, and Charles A. Black alongside Michael B. Jordan. This high-profile collaboration elevated his mainstream visibility.
First Grammy Nomination
Rod Wave received his first Grammy nomination for “Sinners” in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category. This recognition from the Recording Academy acknowledged his artistic growth and impact.
The nomination came on November 7, 2025, marking a significant milestone in his career. It validated years of hard work and dedication to his craft.
Legal Issues in 2025
Rod Wave faced legal challenges in 2025. In May, he was arrested in Fulton County, Georgia, on multiple charges including aggravated assault and firearms violations. His lawyer, Drew Findling, maintained his innocence, stating Rod was a burglary victim.
In November 2025, he was arrested again on drug and weapons charges on the same day as his Grammy nomination. These incidents created controversy and media attention.
Personal Life
Family and Relationships
Rod Wave has twin daughters named Kash and Mocha, born in May 2020. He shares custody with his long-time on-and-off girlfriend, Kelsey “Dee” Coleman. His children are frequently referenced in his music.
Despite his fame, Rod Wave keeps his personal life relatively private. He rarely posts about his family on social media, preferring to protect their privacy.
Current Relationship Status
As of early 2025, reports indicated Rod Wave was in a relationship with a woman known as “Nari” or “Mini Barbie.” His relationship with Kelsey Coleman reportedly ended, though they co-parent their daughters.
Physical Appearance and Health
Rod Wave stands at 5 feet 6 inches (168 centimeters) tall. His weight has fluctuated throughout his career, and he has been open about body image challenges.
Hit House Entertainment
Independent Record Label
In 2017, Rod Wave and his father founded Hit House Entertainment. The Florida-based label has signed artists including OMN Twee, Eelmatic, and December Joy. This entrepreneurial move gave him ownership and control.
The label represents his commitment to supporting emerging talent. He provides opportunities to artists facing similar struggles he once experienced.
Net Worth and Financial Success (2026)
Estimated Net Worth
As of 2026, Rod Wave’s net worth is estimated between $4 million and $9 million. His wealth comes from multiple revenue streams including music sales, streaming royalties, touring, and merchandise.
His annual income from touring alone is substantial. Sold-out arena shows generate significant revenue beyond album sales.
Income Sources
Streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music provide consistent income. YouTube monetization adds to his earnings. Merchandise sales during tours contribute significantly to his bottom line.
Brand partnerships and sponsorship deals have increased recently. His influence on social media makes him attractive to advertisers.
Social Media Presence and Fan Engagement
Instagram Following
Rod Wave maintains over 7.6 million followers on Instagram. His posts include music announcements, personal moments, and behind-the-scenes content. His engagement rate of 9.84% is impressive for an artist of his stature.
Each post averages 752,340 likes and 18,859 comments. This high engagement demonstrates his dedicated fanbase’s loyalty.
TikTok Influence
With over 5 million followers on TikTok, Rod Wave connects with younger audiences. His songs frequently go viral on the platform, driving streaming numbers. User-generated content featuring his music expands his reach organically.
YouTube Channel
Rod Wave’s YouTube channel has over 1 million subscribers. Music videos regularly accumulate millions of views. His “Bag” music video surpassed 2 million views, showcasing his visual appeal.
Impact on Hip-Hop and R&B
Pioneering Emotional Vulnerability
Rod Wave normalized emotional vulnerability in hip-hop. Male rappers traditionally avoided showing sensitivity, but he embraced it fully. His success proved audiences crave authentic emotional expression.
Younger artists cite him as an influence on their approach. The trap-soul genre he pioneered continues growing in popularity.
Influence on Emerging Artists
Numerous emerging artists have adopted Rod Wave’s style. His blend of singing and rapping influenced a generation of hip-hop performers. His commercial success demonstrated the viability of this approach.
Awards and Nominations
Grammy Nomination
Rod Wave’s first Grammy nomination in 2025 for “Sinners” was a career-defining moment. The nomination in Best Song Written for Visual Media recognized his expanding artistic scope.
Other Accolades
He has been nominated for American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and iHeartRadio Music Awards. These nominations reflect his impact across multiple award platforms.
In 2020, being named to XXL’s Freshman Class was a significant early career achievement. The magazine historically identifies future stars accurately.
Rod Wave’s Philosophy and Mental Health
Music as Therapy
Rod Wave has described music creation as therapeutic. Writing and performing help him process trauma and depression. His openness about mental health challenges resonates with fans facing similar struggles.
He has admitted considering quitting music at age 23 due to mental health concerns. The emotional toll of constantly expressing pain became overwhelming.
Spiritual Themes in Music
Rod Wave frequently references God and spirituality in his lyrics. His music contains prayers and spiritual questions, reflecting his faith journey. Gospel influences appear throughout his discography.
Touring History and Live Performances
Major Tours
Rod Wave has embarked on multiple successful tours. The SoulFly Tour, Beautiful Mind Tour, Nostalgia Tour, and Last Lap Tour all sold out major venues. His touring schedule remains aggressive in 2026.
Live performances showcase his vocal strength. Unlike some artists who rely on backing tracks, he delivers powerful live vocals.
Fan Experience
Concert attendees praise the emotional intensity of his shows. Rod Wave creates intimate moments even in large arenas. Fans often describe feeling understood and validated at his performances.
Controversies and Legal Challenges
2024-2025 Arrests
Rod Wave faced multiple arrests in 2024 and 2025. The incidents involved firearms, drug possession, and assault allegations. His legal team has consistently maintained his innocence.
In April 2024, he was arrested on weapons charges related to a shooting outside a Florida sports bar. Three men associated with him were also arrested.
Response to Controversies
Rod Wave has generally remained quiet about legal issues, allowing his lawyers to speak publicly. He focuses on music and maintaining his career despite challenges.
Discography Overview
Studio Albums
- Ghetto Gospel (2019) – Peaked at #10
- Pray 4 Love (2020) – Peaked at #2
- SoulFly (2021) – Peaked at #1
- Beautiful Mind (2022) – Peaked at #1
- Nostalgia (2023) – Peaked at #1
- Last Lap (2024) – Peaked at #2
Notable Mixtapes
- Hunger Games Vol. 1 (2016)
- Hunger Games Vol. 2 (2017)
- Hunger Games Vol. 3 (2018)
- PTSD (2019)
EPs
- Jupiter’s Diary: 7 Day Theory (2022) – Peaked at #9
What Makes Rod Wave Unique
Authentic Storytelling
Rod Wave’s real name may be Rodarius Marcell Green, but his stage persona represents complete authenticity. He refuses to fabricate stories or adopt a fake persona for commercial appeal.
His lyrics reflect real experiences and genuine emotions. This authenticity creates trust with his audience.
Vocal Ability
His powerful voice distinguishes him from peers. The ability to sing soulfully while maintaining rap credibility is rare. His vocal range and control impress music critics consistently.
Genre-Blending Mastery
Rod Wave seamlessly blends hip-hop, R&B, trap, and gospel influences. This genre-fluid approach appeals to diverse audiences. His music transcends traditional category limitations.
Future Prospects and Career Outlook
Upcoming Projects
While specific details remain undisclosed, Rod Wave continues working on new music. Fans anticipate another album in 2026 based on his release pattern.
Expanding into Other Ventures
Beyond music, Rod Wave may explore acting or producing. His appearance in the “Sinners” soundtrack suggests interest in film. Business ventures through Hit House Entertainment continue growing.
Long-Term Impact
Rod Wave’s influence on hip-hop will likely endure beyond his active career. The trap-soul genre he pioneered will continue evolving. His honest approach to songwriting has changed industry expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Rod Wave’s real name?
Rod Wave’s real name is Rodarius Marcell Green. He was born on August 27, 1998, in St. Petersburg, Florida, and adopted the stage name “Rod Wave” when he began his professional music career in 2016.
How old is Rod Wave in 2026?
Rod Wave is 27 years old as of 2026. He was born on August 27, 1998, making him a Virgo in the zodiac calendar.
What does Rod Wave mean?
The name “Rod Wave” comes from his first name Rodarius (shortened to “Rod”) and “Wave” represents the impact he wanted to make in the music industry. The “wave” symbolizes movement, energy, and the emotional waves his music creates.
What is Rod Wave’s biggest song?
Rod Wave’s biggest song is “Heart on Ice,” which peaked at number 25 on the Billboard Hot 100. However, “Rags2Riches” featuring Lil Baby reached number 12 and is his highest-charting single commercially.
How many children does Rod Wave have?
Rod Wave has twin daughters named Kash and Mocha, born in May 2020. He shares custody with his ex-girlfriend Kelsey “Dee” Coleman.
What record label is Rod Wave signed to?
Rod Wave is signed to Alamo Records, which he joined in 2018. He also co-founded his own independent label, Hit House Entertainment, in 2017 with his father.
What is trap-soul music?
Trap-soul is a genre pioneered by Rod Wave that blends trap production and hip-hop beats with soulful R&B vocals and emotional storytelling. It combines the hard-hitting elements of trap music with the melodic and vulnerable aspects of soul music.
Where is Rod Wave from?
Rod Wave is from St. Petersburg, Florida. He grew up in challenging neighborhoods in the city and his experiences there heavily influence his music’s themes and storytelling.
Has Rod Wave won a Grammy?
As of 2026, Rod Wave has not won a Grammy but received his first nomination in 2025 for “Sinners” in the Best Song Written for Visual Media category for the film soundtrack of the same name.
What is Rod Wave’s net worth?
Rod Wave’s net worth is estimated between $4 million and $9 million as of 2026. His wealth comes from music sales, streaming royalties, touring revenue, merchandise sales, and business ventures including his record label.
Conclusion
What is Rod Wave real name? Rodarius Marcell Green has transformed from a struggling kid in St. Petersburg, Florida, to one of hip-hop’s most influential voices.
His journey from releasing independent mixtapes to achieving seven consecutive top-ten albums demonstrates remarkable consistency and talent.
Rod Wave’s pioneering of trap-soul music has changed the genre’s landscape, proving that vulnerability and emotional honesty resonate powerfully with audiences.
Throughout his career, from “Heart on Ice” going viral in 2019 to receiving his first Grammy nomination in 2025, Rod Wave has remained authentic to his experiences.
Despite legal challenges and personal struggles, he continues creating music that touches millions. His ability to blend trap production with soulful vocals and gospel influences sets him apart from contemporaries.