BIO

Carlton Mann pka Pretty Ugly was born in Philadelphia PA. in the late 1970's. Pretty Ugly shares the same life story as most black men of today, growing up without a father. Living in a single parent home with two brothers one older, one younger, as the middle child he experienced the best of both worlds. Being able to be taught and teach at the same time.

Growing up in some of the worst sections of his city he quickly adapted to the norms and rules of the street life. Pretty Ugly has always been a fan of Hip-Hop music since as long as he could remember. His biggest influences range from young to old Mc's, or anyone that he hears inspires him to say "I've got to go write something!" Over time he developed a style and way of delivering words untouchable to rap's greatest. PU tells stories through his music of what he's witnessed, dreamed and lived over the years.

Entering the rap industry in 1998 without a single song, PU gained attention from the Hip Hop underground scene quickly. He spit three verses over a instrumental (Ya Life's On The Line) that would've been artist 50 cents hit single from his debut album Power Of A Dollar. After doing so, Pretty Ugly was snatched up fast by New York's own DJ Stretch Armstrong. Stretch later signed the young Pretty Ugly to Spit Inc./Sony Records. PU was quickly tracked down by various producers, rappers, and label executives.

His first feature was on a song with 50 Cent and Sha-Money's artist P-Dap. The track was entitled "Hit Em' Up". After showing his ability to hang with one of raps greatest of today he was sought out by legendary producer Prince Paul to be featured on his up coming album titled Politics of the Business. The track entitled "So What" featured West coast rapper Kokane, East coast rapper Master Ace and Pretty Ugly himself. Gaining credibility quickly as a well rounded MC from classic verses on New York's Hot 97 radio station, to DJ Whoo kid mix-tapes, Rock Star video games turned to Jonathan Shector owner of Game Records/Hip Hop Honeys to find the best up coming artist to be featured on what is credited to be the best video game ever created with hip hop artists on it to date. (Grand Theft Auto 3). Pretty Ugly and Royce Da 5'9's song entitled "Spit Game" was an instant classic which is still being quoted to this day.

Unfortunately, in late 2000 PU was brought up on charges stemming from a shooting that occurred in his home town of Philadelphia resulting in a halt to his career. After running from the system for five years the walls came crashing down when he was arrested for the previously mentioned charges. With God on his side he overcame the ordeal and was acquitted of all charges. Now in 2023, being one of the last of the best, he is ready once again to earn the crown.

You can find some other music and upcoming events from PU on Instagram