On Friday, legendary rapper, E-40 generously donated $100,000 to his alma mater, Grambling State University to support a number of its music programs.
The funds will benefit the music department, the World Famed Tiger Marching Band, and the upkeep of the newly installed recording studio, which has been named the Earl “E-40” Stevens Sound Recording Studio, in the rapper’s honor.
“E-40 has used his success as a recording artist to create an entrepreneurial empire,” said GSU President Rick Gallot. “We are so grateful that he is giving back to his alma mater in such a substantial way. Our current and future students will benefit from his investment in our state-of-the-art student recording studio.”
“I just wanted to make a contribution to my school, Grambling State University, so I talked to the Doc (GSU Band Director Dr. Nikole Roebuck) and she said, ‘Let’s see what we can do,’ and this was what I came up with,” E-40 said as he unveiled the $100,000 check to the Grambling University Foundation. “I feel good about it, too. I feel really good. God is great.”
E-40 has secured his spot as one of the hip-hop greats, having released several multiplatinum and gold studio albums, mixtapes, collaborations, and hit singles, including “U and Dat,” “Tell Me When To Go,” “Choices (Yup)” and “Function,” among countless others.
As a solo artist, E-40 holds the record for most solo album entries on the Billboard 200 charts by a hip-hop artist (32) and has collaborated with big-time artists such as 2pac, Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, Big Sean, and many more. Function,” among countless others.
He is also an entrepreneur, having launched over 15 different still and sparkling wine offerings under his “Earl Stevens Selections” line and his new food brand —called “Goon With The Spoon.”
GSU Vice President for University Advancement and Innovation Melanie Jones expressed her appreciation for 40’s return and donation to the university.
“Grambling State is incredibly grateful for Mr. Stevens’ appearance at the university and especially his donation,” Jones said. “It’s gifts like this from our alumni and supporters that are the driving force that keep the university moving forward and creating bigger and better futures for our students,” Jones said.
