21 Savage has also made waves through his charitable efforts. Each year he hosts his “Issa Back to School Drive” for Atlanta school children in need, offering free haircuts and supplies as part of this initiative. Furthermore, 21 Savage supports anti-bullying efforts at local schools.
After his 2019 arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), 21 Savage’s immigration court proceedings have been concluded, making him a lawful permanent resident with full freedom to travel internationally.
Born Sheyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph
21 Savage was arrested by ICE on Sunday and taken to a Georgia detention center for processing. Many fans were surprised to learn he is actually an immigrant from England; having come over as a child. Due to overstaying his visa he now faces deportation proceedings.
MailOnline has obtained the birth certificate for rapper Snoop Lion, which shows he was born in London on October 22, 1992 and left at 13 to live with his mother in Atlanta.
Savage’s legal team asserts that he had legal entry to the United States until 2005 when he returned on an H-4 visa, with one brief visit back to Britain that same year. They argue he should remain since he has resided here for over 10 years and has US-born children.
Raised in Atlanta
Sheyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, better known by his rap name 21 Savage, was born in London but raised in Atlanta. As 21 Savage has made many contributions to its community including founding and hosting back-to-school drives for children as well as anti-bullying initiatives, his hometown has welcomed his presence with open arms.
21 Savage’s raps often reference his violent upbringing in Atlanta and British heritage. At an event hosted by Governor Stacey Abrams of Georgia, 21 Savage recounted being bullied for having an accent from back home in high school.
At Rolling Loud NYC this year, 21 Savage made an unusual entrance. Instead of coming directly onto stage as is usual for him, he walked behind a curtain before entering through it. Once onstage he two-stepped with London star J Hus and offered a smile to dancehall artist Popcaan – it was an impressive performance that showcased 21 Savage’s diverse talent and global appeal; one reason he has become such a beloved MC in the industry.
Arrested by ICE
21 Savage’s arrest came as a shock to his fans and followers alike. On Sunday afternoon ICE claimed he is actually British national, and arrested him based on allegations of visa overstay and an outstanding 2014 drug conviction conviction.
His representatives stated that he was born in Newham, London and moved with his family to Atlanta when he was seven. They stated that his visa expired due to unfortunate timing issues rather than his fault.
They noted that he has strong ties to the US, suggesting he could apply for a “celebrity” visa which is open to any individual internationally recognized for their work – an application which typically benefits athletes, singers, or celebrities well known in America; although whether this will help his case remains unknown.
Legally residing in the U.S.
After one year in legal limbo, 21 Savage may finally obtain his green card. Originally known by his real name Sheyaa Bin Abraham-Joseph, 21 Savage immigrated to the US as a child but overstayed his visa; according to TMZ’s reports on Atlanta immigration courts however it could take years before his case can be heard and decided upon.
Lawyers representing the rapper claim ICE is seeking to “punish and intimidate” him unfairly. According to them, in 2017 he filed for a U visa as the victim of crime; and his family and community support him strongly. Additionally, they maintain that he has strong ties with America without ever committing any offenses himself.
21 Savage remains undeterred by his legal problems, recording and releasing two singles last month. Furthermore, he plans on performing in London once his immigration status has been resolved; though his lawyer remains optimistic about receiving his green card soon.