In an industry where origin stories often read like fairy tales, Young 96’s journey to rap stardom is a stark reminder that success is rarely a straight line. Born Michael Milligan in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the 28-year-old rapper, producer, and engineer has spent a lifetime adapting, overcoming, and transforming obstacles into opportunities.
Young 96’s early life was a whirlwind of change. With a single mother working tirelessly to provide for three children, the family moved state to state, city to city, never staying in one place long enough to call it home. By the time he was 16, Young 96 had attended a new school every year, forcing him to grow up fast and develop a chameleon-like ability to adapt to any environment.
Despite the challenges, music was always a constant. Young 96 vividly remembers car rides spent freestyling to his favorite tracks with his younger brother, who would later become the rapper Young Double 0. But it wasn’t until a fateful night in 2019 that he discovered his brother’s true talent. Inspired, Young 96 invested in studio equipment and began learning the ins and outs of music production, driven by a desire to showcase his brother’s gift to the world.
As he honed his craft, Young 96’s own charisma and natural flow caught the attention of those around him. With his brother and fellow rapper Dc Cracc, he formed the group Kush n Ink, a collective dedicated to blending the gritty realism of East Coast hip hop with the sun-kissed vibes of California. Though he initially envisioned himself behind the scenes, Young 96’s undeniable presence propelled him to the front of the mic.
Today, Young 96 is on the cusp of something big. With Kush n Ink, he’s preparing to release a string of projects that showcase the group’s versatility and innovative style. Their collaborative tape with cousin Chanice, “The Cook Book Vol. 1”, drops August 23rd and promises to be just the beginning of a series that will push the boundaries of what hip hop can be.
But Young 96’s ambitions extend far beyond his own music. Through his platform, he hopes to create opportunities for young people from backgrounds like his own, providing the resources and support he never had. By sharing his story and his struggles, he aims to inspire a new generation to see beyond their circumstances and chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.
As Young 96’s star continues to rise, it’s clear that he’s not just building a career – he’s building a legacy. With his determination, talent, and unwavering commitment to uplifting his community, there’s no limit to what he can achieve. The odds may have been stacked against him from the start, but Young 96 has proven that with hustle and heart, anyone can turn adversity into opportunity.
Follow Young 96’s journey on Instagram and Spotify. Stream “The Cook Book Vol. 1” on all platforms starting August 23rd.