Takeoff, born Kirshnik Khari Ball on June 18, 1994, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, was an American rapper, singer, and songwriter best known as one-third of the groundbreaking and massively influential hip-hop trio Migos. Recognized for his intricate, rapid-fire flow and often understated yet technically brilliant verses, he formed the group alongside his uncle Quavo and cousin Offset in their hometown, setting in motion a career that would redefine trap music for a global audience. His life and career were tragically cut short when he was killed in a shooting in Houston, Texas, on November 1, 2022.

Raised in the Atlanta suburbs, Takeoff was immersed in music from a young age by his family. He, Quavo, and Offset began recording music together as teenagers, initially calling themselves the Polo Club before settling on Migos. The group's early breakthrough came with the viral 2013 single "Versace," which was famously remixed by Drake, catapulting their unique triplet-flow style into the mainstream. Takeoff's distinctive voice and precise cadence became a signature element of the Migos sound, though he was often perceived as the most reserved member of the boisterous trio.

Despite his quiet demeanor, Takeoff's lyrical prowess was undeniable and frequently highlighted by fans and critics. He was notably absent from the group's chart-topping 2016 single "Bad and Boujee," featuring Lil Uzi Vert, a fact that sparked widespread discussion but did not diminish his integral role in the collective's success. Migos dominated the late 2010s with a string of hit albums including Culture (2017) and Culture II (2018), which spawned global smashes like "MotorSport" with Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, "Stir Fry," and "Walk It Talk It" with Drake. The group's influence extended beyond music, impacting fashion and popular culture, and they made memorable television appearances on shows like Atlanta and Saturday Night Live.

In 2018, Takeoff released his first and only solo album, The Last Rocket, which debuted at number four on the Billboard 200 chart and was met with critical acclaim for showcasing his individual artistry. He later formed the duo Unc & Phew with Quavo, releasing the joint album Only Built for Infinity Links in October 2022. Just days after that album's release, Takeoff was fatally shot outside a bowling alley in Houston. His death sent shockwaves through the music world, prompting an outpouring of grief from countless artists and fans who celebrated his immense talent and legacy as a key architect of modern hip-hop.