Friendly Thug 52 NGG

Friendly Thug 52 NGG, born Alexander Dmitrievich Romanov on May 28, 2000, in Saint Petersburg, Russia, is a prominent figure in the Russian hip-hop scene. Known for his introspective lyrics and distinctive blend of old-school G-funk and trap, he has gained recognition for his authenticity and raw storytelling.

Romanov's early life was marked by involvement in illicit activities, including drug trafficking. He began his musical journey in 2017 under the pseudonym Vernalcry, releasing early tracks that drew influence from artists like Dead Dynasty and Pharaoh. Over time, he developed a unique sound that resonated with a broad audience.

His breakthrough came with the release of the album Cruiser Aurora in 2022, which garnered significant attention in the Russian underground hip-hop community. The subsequent album, Cristoforo Colombo (2023), received critical acclaim, ranking third in The Flow's Top 50 Albums of the Year and earning a spot in Afisha's list of the 33 best albums of 2023.

In 2024, Romanov was included in Forbes Russia's "30 Under 30" list in the music category, highlighting his growing influence in the industry.

In 2025, he released the album Graf Monte-Cristo / Most Valuable Pirate, which further solidified his status in the Russian rap scene. The album features collaborations with artists like Kizaru, Markul, and SaintPrince52, blending elements of classic hip-hop with experimental lyricism. The title pays homage to the literary character of Count Monte Cristo, symbolizing themes of revenge, inner freedom, and personal code of honor.

In 2024, rapper Andrey Zamai released a mixtape accusing Romanov of homosexuality and drug addiction. Zamai also claimed that Romanov had visited his old apartment with a group of individuals, searching for him. Romanov has not publicly addressed these allegations.

Discography:
Cruiser Aurora (2022)
Cristoforo Colombo (2023)
Graf Monte-Cristo / Most Valuable Pirate (2025)