122 fans
Drino (born Diamond Williams on November 5, 1996) is a rising force in hip-hop, representing South Central Los Angeles with raw storytelling, sharp lyricism, and relentless hustle. Raised in a low-income household, Drino channeled his experiences into music at an early age, beginning to rap in the 9th grade after stepping away from a promising basketball path. With nothing but an amateur mixtape and sheer determination, he started building a name in the underground scene through local performances and digital grind.
Drino burst onto the scene with early mixtapes like Back At It Part 2, which laid the foundation for his debut studio album Breaking Records in 2017—a project that showcased both West Coast grit and Southern bounce. By 2018, he joined forces with American Monster Guild® and Hood Records™, releasing Back At It Part 3 and later King Creole Vol. 1 & 2, a defining project packed with over 20 tracks and appearances from industry up-and-comers like Juggin Jah, Gettie, and Lil Rambo 300.
Drino’s name began circulating beyond LA when he released No Face No Case in 2021, an album laced with gritty lyrics and street insight. The project not only elevated his status but also brought mainstream attention to a phrase used in criminal and legal circles since the early 2000s. His unapologetic style and fearlessly authentic storytelling drew parallels to the streets he grew up in.
In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Drino locked in the studio for over 11 hours with artists like Juggin Jah and Jstarr the Prince, resulting in the high-energy Killa Season album. He followed it up with the Don’t Know EP, featuring tracks like “For the Gang” and “No Emotions,” once again proving his consistency and drive.
Formerly signed to American Monster Guild®, Drino parted ways in 2020 to pursue a more independent direction, citing a mismatch in vision. Since then, his grind has remained relentless. He’s racked up sponsorships from Exotic Pop®, Legal Lean®, Halifornia®, Teen Hearts Clothing®, Dikotomy®, Kenzu Streetwear®, and HYB Clothing®, all while staying focused on securing the right major deal.
Also a skilled audio engineer and videographer, Drino runs his creative direction under the “Drino View™” brand. His versatility as an artist, producer, and visionary continues to impress fans and peers alike. He balances his career with fatherhood, proudly raising his son, Little Amen, and staying committed to a greater purpose beyond music.
With a catalogue that spans gritty realism, catchy hooks, and anthems of survival, Drino stands as one of the most authentic voices from the West Coast’s new wave. His work ethic, story, and sound have him positioned to take hip-hop by storm.
For bookings, media, or collaborations:
Email: info@hoodrecordsllc.com
Phone: +1 (347) 680-4493
Instagram: @Mbm.drino
Twitter/Facebook: @Therealdrino
