Mr. Serv-On
Mr. Serv-On, born Corey Smith on September 18, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a veteran hip-hop artist best known for his affiliation with the legendary No Limit Records, founded by Master P. He emerged during the label’s peak in the mid-to-late 1990s, when No Limit was dominating the Southern rap scene. Mr. Serv-On quickly stood out for his deep, commanding voice and raw, emotional delivery that set him apart from many of his labelmates. His early contributions to group projects like TRU (The Real Untouchables) helped build his name within the hip-hop community.
In 1997, Mr. Serv-On released his debut album “Life Insurance”, which became a commercial success. The album debuted at #23 on the Billboard 200 and was later certified Gold. It was praised for its introspective storytelling and gritty subject matter, covering topics like street violence, loyalty, and mortality. The success of Life Insurance established him as a key solo artist on the No Limit roster. He followed it with his second album Da Next Level in 1999, which charted even higher, debuting at #14 on the Billboard 200 and further cementing his position in the Southern rap scene.
After his time with No Limit, Mr. Serv-On took the independent route, continuing to release music while evolving both personally and artistically. His later projects, such as War Is Me, The Fallen Soldier, and Internet Platinum, explored more personal and conscious themes. These albums highlighted his shift toward socially aware messages, mental health awareness, and reflections on the hip-hop industry. Even though he didn’t achieve the same commercial success independently, he maintained a strong underground following.
Beyond music, Mr. Serv-On became actively involved in community work and activism. Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, he returned to New Orleans with a mission to help rebuild and uplift his community. He began speaking at schools, mentoring youth, and promoting anti-violence campaigns. He became a vocal advocate for mental health in the Black community, using his own life experiences to connect with young people and encourage positive change.
Today, Mr. Serv-On is respected not only for his contributions to Southern hip-hop but also for his transformation into a leader and activist. His journey from rap fame to grassroots mentorship shows his commitment to growth, authenticity, and giving back. He continues to make music and use his platform to inspire others, proving that real influence goes far beyond the charts.
Booking for speaking engagements, contact:
Tracey Pennywell