Brandon Christopher McCartney, better known by his stage name Lil B or Lil B The BasedGod, is an American rapper, songwriter, producer, and digital influencer, born on August 17, 1989, in Berkeley, California[1][2]. He first emerged in the mid-2000s as a member of the Bay Area hip-hop group The Pack, which gained attention for their local hit “Vans,” which was later ranked by Rolling Stone as one of the best songs of 2006[2][5]. The group’s success led to a record deal and the release of their debut album Based Boys, but The Pack disbanded in 2010, after which Lil B pursued a solo career[1][2]. Lil B is particularly recognized for his prolific output, having released hundreds of songs and mixtapes—often for free—across a variety of genres including hip-hop, new age, jazz, and indie rock[2][4]. He is credited with popularizing the term “based,” which he redefined from a local pejorative into a philosophy of positivity, self-confidence, and individuality[2][5]. His alter ego, the BasedGod, became a central figure in internet culture, and Lil B’s embrace of social media—especially MySpace, Twitter, and YouTube—helped him build a devoted online following and influenced the rise of “meme rap” and internet-driven music careers[1][3]. Among his notable solo tracks are “Wonton Soup,” “Like a Martian,” and “I’m God,” which have become viral staples[5]. Lil B’s unconventional approach to music and life has led to unique cultural moments, such as his “cooking dance,” his playful “curses” on athletes like James Harden and Kevin Durant, and guest lectures at institutions like MIT and NYU[3]. He has also authored a self-help book and remains an unsigned artist, releasing music independently under his BasedWorld Records imprint[3][5]. As of 2025, Lil B continues to maintain a cult following, though he is less active musically than during his peak mixtape era. His influence persists in internet culture and among a generation of artists who value authenticity, digital presence, and genre-blurring creativity[1][3]. While there are no major recent releases or events widely reported, his legacy as a pioneer of online rap and a symbol of positivity endures.