Ill Bill Siblings: All About Necro

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Ill Bill, born William Braunstein on July 14, 1972, in New York City, is an influential American rapper and record producer hailing from Brooklyn, New York.

Known for his raw, politically charged, and often provocative lyrics that blend conspiracy theories, horrorcore elements, violence, and social commentary, he has built a dedicated following in the underground hip-hop scene.

Emerging in the 1990s, Ill Bill gained initial recognition as a key member of the groundbreaking group Non Phixion, which pushed boundaries with controversial tracks addressing government conspiracies and societal ills.

He is also the founder and CEO of Uncle Howie Records, a label that has supported underground talent and preserved his independent ethos throughout his career.

Siblings

Ill Bill has one prominent sibling in the music industry: his younger brother Ron Braunstein, better known by his stage name Necro.

Necro is an accomplished rapper, producer, and founder of Psycho+Logical-Records, sharing a similar hardcore and underground aesthetic with his brother.

The two have collaborated extensively over the years, including Necro producing Ill Bill’s debut solo album in full and their joint work under projects like the anticipated but ultimately canceled “Blood Brothers” album.

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Career

Ill Bill’s career began in the late 1980s and early 1990s when he immersed himself in New York’s hip-hop and metal scenes, even playing in the death metal band Injustice alongside his brother Necro.

In 1994, he linked up with MC Serch, Sabac Red, Goretex, and DJ Eclipse to form Non Phixion, a group that stirred controversy with singles like “I Shot Reagan” and “Black Helicopters” before releasing their acclaimed debut album The Future Is Now in 2002 on Uncle Howie Records after label deals fell through.

Following Non Phixion’s disbandment, Ill Bill launched his solo career with the 2004 album What’s Wrong with Bill?, entirely produced by Necro and regarded as an underground classic for its dark themes and production.

He continued releasing solo projects such as The Hour of Reprisal (2008), The Grimy Awards (2013), Septagram (2016), and La Bella Medusa (2020), showcasing his evolution while maintaining a gritty, sample-heavy style.

Ill Bill co-founded La Coka Nostra in 2007 alongside Everlast, Slaine, Danny Boy, and DJ Lethal, releasing albums like Masters of the Dark Arts (2012).

He also formed the duo Heavy Metal Kings with Vinnie Paz, dropping their self-titled album in 2011.

Throughout his journey, he has remained independent, collaborating with producers like Stu Bangas and appearing in various underground circuits, while occasionally venturing into media like film soundtracks and his own ILL Bill TV platform.

Accolades

While Ill Bill has thrived primarily in the underground hip-hop world without mainstream commercial dominance or major award wins, his work has earned widespread critical respect and cult status among fans and peers.

Albums like What’s Wrong with Bill? and Non Phixion’s The Future Is Now are frequently cited as classics in underground circles for their innovative production, fearless lyricism, and influence on horrorcore and politically minded rap.

His contributions through La Coka Nostra and Heavy Metal Kings have solidified his reputation as a consistent force in hardcore hip-hop, with high praise from outlets and communities dedicated to independent rap.