About IO Gunshot

Isaac Ouedraogo, also known as IO Gunshot, Zacky, or ZK Rocc is an American rapper from Mount Vernon, New York. He started his career as a producer but then switched to rapping instead. He started rapping at 10 under the username IO Gunshot RG and IOGK but switched to IO Gunshot. His stage name came from his initials & a song by Maitre Gims called “Gunshot". His first songs were Lit Like Fire & Summer Vibe.

Early life & upbringing

Born Isaac Newtonn Lauma Ouedraogo, he was born on July 7, 2009. He lived in New Rochelle with his grandmother & mother and was raised in New Rochelle, New York. His first name and primary middle name come both from the biblical figure Isaac and the scientist, Isaac Newton. His second middle name was given by his grandmother, which is translated from Sango, meaning "Mother's Heart". His father abandoned him when he knew that Isaac was going to be premature. He spent his first 5 years there before moving to Mount Vernon, New York. He is an only child and has 5 half-siblings and 1 stepbrother. He grew up in a lower-middle-class family with his grandmother, younger half-sister, mother, and stepfather. He moved from New York to Ohio at 15 with his family because of his mother’s job. Growing up, he was a quiet and introverted child. However, he was also troublesome. His troubles started at 12 when he and his sister ran away from home. He was transferred from Columbus School (Mount Vernon Leadership Academy) to Martin H. Traphagen School. This switch caused him to get suspended three times at the age of 13, particularly because of fighting, sexual harassment, and physical assault. He got into more trouble after cursing at his chemistry teacher, failing his classes, and lying to his mother about after-school programs to hang out with his friends.

Career and Influences

He released his first song, Lit Like Fire (featuring Rodeo Le King and Shxzam) on SoundCloud. His older songs are still available although they were deleted from YouTube due to his first channel having copyright strikes. His songs currently revolve around personal experiences, because a classmate of his said that he should be more authentic in his music. He has collaborated with rappers Brez808 [Froze My Heart], BKǾ YPSFAYGO [Rainy Days, Back For Good], Rockstar k.i.d., Choppa Tha Assassin, YXNG K.3, AM1T, LilDior12, and more.

His inspiration for rap came from listening to rappers like Eminem, 50 Cent, and Ja Rule. His mother used to play their music in the house and also his cousins who liked rappers Polo G and Morray. He and his family went to the St. Augustine Catholic Church on Sundays.

Personal Life

He lost 6 family members, including his aunt, Roseline.