The output of lyrical and experiential rapper Markee Steele is cast in the kind of self-assuredness attained only by hard-fought successes. A native North Carolinian, supported by inspirations 9th Wonder and Rapper Big Pooh, Steele has released numerous projects through his independent R.O.S.E. label. Growing up in Durham, NC Steele developed an early interest in a variety of music, started rapping as a youngster, and began to take the art form seriously during his teens. While attending college at NCCU, Steele was taught and mentored by revered producer 9th Wonder. The association proved to have more impact on Steele's career than any media coverage. A corner was turned in 2014 when "Not Like Yall," uploaded to YouTube by Steele, caught the attention of an ESPN employee. This led to the sports station licensing the track for placement in its First Take show. Shortly thereafter, Steele returned with an EP, History Repeats, highlighted by "Greatness," a lean and triumphant track regularly featured on ESPN flagship program Sportscenter. Steele then connected with the likes of Carvin & Ivan, Raheem DeVaughn, and ex-Little Brother member Rapper Big Pooh for his 2016 LP, Almost Time. Created over a period of deep focus and strict self-discipline, including six months during which he lived out of his car, It's Been a Minute arrived in 2018. This time, fellow Durham dwellers Khrysis and G. Yamazawa, along with No Malice, were among the collaborators.