Rod Wave, St. Petersburg Rapper, Age, Real Name, Height & Bio

Artist Age: 25
Stage name: Rod Wave
Birth name: Rodarius Marcell Green
Height: 5′6″ (168 cm)
Place of birth: St. Petersburg, Florida, U.S.
Instagram: @rodwave

Early Life and Musical Foundations

Born on August 27, 1999, in St. Petersburg, Florida, Rod Wave came from humble beginnings. His parents separated when he was in elementary school, and his father was later incarcerated. Raised by his mother, he faced financial hardship and instability growing up.

During his teenage years, Rod found refuge in music. He began recording songs in high school using a borrowed microphone and cracked software. Music quickly became more than a hobby—it became a way out.

Rod Wave Age and Breakthrough Moment

Rod Wave started releasing music independently at around age 18. His local buzz grew fast thanks to emotionally charged songs filled with pain, struggle, and hope. By the time he was 20, he had released the viral hit “Heart on Ice,” which charted on the Billboard Hot 100 and caught the attention of major labels.

The success of “Heart on Ice” was not just about the melody. His raw vulnerability and gospel-tinged delivery stood out in a genre often dominated by bravado. Rod Wave age 20 marked his entry into national recognition—and the beginning of a new chapter.

Ghetto Gospel and Rising Fame

Later that same year, Rod released Ghetto Gospel, his debut studio album, executive produced by Kevin Gates. It debuted in the Billboard 200 top 10 and featured heartfelt tracks like “Cuban Links” and “Close Enough to Hurt.”

The album’s success proved that Rod’s emotional approach to hip-hop resonated with fans across all demographics. At 21, he was no longer just a Florida artist—he was a national name.

Rod Wave Age 22–23: Consistency and Connection

Over the next two years, Rod Wave released Pray 4 Love and SoulFly, both of which debuted in the top spots on the Billboard charts. These albums featured personal reflections on fame, depression, heartbreak, and spiritual battles.

His fans connected deeply with his honesty. He didn’t rap about being invincible—instead, he made songs for the broken, the lonely, and the healing. This emotional transparency became his trademark.

At age 22, “Rags2Riches” became his biggest hit to date, going multi-platinum and receiving widespread radio play. It proved that Rod’s authenticity could also translate into chart success.

Faith, Pressure, and Personal Struggles

Rod Wave has often described music as therapy. He’s been open about battling depression, anxiety, and the pressures of fame. His songs are filled with spiritual references, prayers, and questions directed toward God.

Even as his fame grew, he kept his circle small and remained grounded in family values. He frequently talks about his children and how becoming a father changed his priorities.

At Rod Wave age 23, he considered quitting music due to mental health concerns. Despite the success, he felt overwhelmed by the emotional weight of constantly expressing pain. Still, he continued to push forward—for himself and his listeners.

Rod Wave Age 24–25: Maturity and Legacy

Now 25 years old, Rod Wave is entering a phase of maturity in his career. His 2023 album Nostalgia debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, making it his third chart-topping project. The album features more storytelling, subtle production changes, and deeper reflections on relationships, loyalty, and self-worth.

He’s no longer just singing about surviving—he’s reflecting on how far he’s come. There’s a balance now between sadness and gratitude, struggle and strength.

At this point, Rod Wave’s age symbolizes growth. He’s not the same kid from St. Petersburg—he’s a father, a mentor, and a voice for millions who feel unheard.

Sound, Style, and Impact

Rod Wave’s style blends southern hip-hop with R&B, gospel, and blues. His voice is melodic, his lyrics personal, and his delivery emotional. He sings more than he raps, often layering harmonies over piano-based production.

As a result, he has carved out a unique lane. He doesn’t rely on features or gimmicks. His fanbase shows up for him, not for trends.

Many consider Rod Wave to be one of the pioneers of the “emotional trap” sound, influencing artists across genres. His honesty gave people permission to feel—and to express those feelings through music.

Major Moments in Rod Wave’s Career by Age

Final Thoughts on Rod Wave Age and Evolution

So how old is Rod Wave? He’s 25, but his soul and sound often feel much older. Each album has captured a chapter of his growth, both as a man and an artist. His songs speak not just to pain—but to the journey through it.

Rod Wave age 25 represents a young man who turned hardship into healing. He’s created a catalog full of stories that mirror the lives of people across the world. As he continues to evolve, fans will be watching closely—because when Rod speaks, it feels like he’s speaking for all of us.

Internal Link
Check out more Florida-based artists like Kodak Black and Hotboii.

Outbound Links
Follow him on Instagram & visit his official website for music, merch, and tour dates.