Paperboy is the stage name of Mitchell Charles Johnson (born October 2, 1969), an American rapper. He is best known for his single “Ditty” which charted on the Hot 100.
Johnson was born in San Diego, California and later moved to Oakland. He is African-American.
His associated acts were: R. Kelly, Eazy-E and Rhythum D. His most acclaimed album was his debut The Nine Yards in 1992, which was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album featured 10 tracks with G-Funk influenced production from Rhythum D, who was known for producing for artists on Ruthless Records such as Eazy-E, BG Knocc Out, and Dresta.
Its single “Ditty” is Paperboy’s most successful single. The album was certified gold by the RIAA on June 22, 1993, and “Ditty” was certified platinum on May 11, 1993.
Paperboy’s second album, The Love Never Dies, released in 1995, marked a change in the rapper’s traditional style through his utilization of artists and producers from other areas of his home state of California, as well as seeking talent in other areas of the United States.
The first track “California” bears the sound of the classic West Coast rap style and features fellow Californian Battlecat. Rhythum D’s presence is felt heavily throughout the album with his unique producing talents.
Discography
Studio albums
- The Nine Yards (1992)
- City to City (1996)
- The Love Never Dies (2004)
Singles
- “Ditty” (1992)
- “Bumpin’ (Adaptation of Humpin’)” (1993)
