Profile Details
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Cole Stevenson |
| Stage Name | Merkules |
| Date of Birth | September 27, 1992 |
| Place of Birth | Surrey, British Columbia, Canada |
| Occupation | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Net Worth (2024) | $3 million |
| Notable Works | Scars, Canadian Bacon, Apply Pressure |
| Partner | Carissa |
| Social Media | YouTube, Instagram |
Early Life and Inspiration
Merkules, born Cole Stevenson in Surrey, British Columbia, discovered his passion for music at the age of 12 when his father took him to a local mall concert featuring Swollen Members, Saukrates, and Sweatshop Union. This experience sparked his interest in pursuing a career in rap, leading him to hone his skills at local open mic nights. Influenced by hip-hop legends like Big Pun, Big Al, Busta Rhymes, and Eminem, Merkules began crafting his unique style and building a name for himself in the local music scene under the alias Merk Mikz.
A Turning Point: The Assault
At 16, Merkules experienced a life-changing event when he was brutally attacked on his way home from a studio session. This assault, involving baseball bats and a machete, left him with significant physical and emotional scars. Despite the severity of the incident, he chose not to report it, adhering to the street code. This traumatic experience deeply influenced his music, culminating in the 2015 hit “Scars,” where he openly addressed the assault and its impact on his life.
Rise to Fame
Merkules’ relentless dedication to his craft paid off as he began gaining traction on YouTube by remixing popular tracks from artists like Tyga, Ed Sheeran, and Camila Cabello. These remixes showcased his lyrical prowess and helped him amass a loyal following. Over the past decade, Merkules has released seven full-length albums, including “Canadian Bacon,” “Bacon Bits,” “Hunger Pains,” “Scars,” “Trust Your Gut,” “Cole,” and “Special Occasion.” His work ethic and unique style have made him one of the most prolific rappers from British Columbia.
Achievements and Collaborations
Merkules’ hard work and talent have not gone unnoticed. He has been nominated for two Western Canadian Music Awards and headlined over 500 gigs across Europe, North America, and Australia. His parents often joke about how he has seen more of the world before turning 30 than they have in their entire lives.
In November 2020, Merkules released the album “Apply Pressure,” featuring collaborations with notable artists like Kevin Gates, The Game, Jelly Roll, and E-40. The album is available on YouTube, where Merkules uploaded it for fans who might not be able to afford it.
Personal Life
Merkules is in a long-term relationship with his girlfriend, Carissa. The rapper often expresses his gratitude for her support and companionship. In a heartfelt Facebook post in 2017, he celebrated Carissa’s 25th birthday, acknowledging her significant role in his life and career.
Net Worth and Sponsorships
As of 2024, Merkules has an estimated net worth of $3 million. His wealth primarily comes from YouTube ad revenue, album sales, and concert tickets. Merkules is also sponsored by Monster Energy Drink, further boosting his income and visibility.
Conclusion
Merkules’ journey from a young rap enthusiast in Surrey to an internationally recognized artist is a testament to his resilience, talent, and dedication. Despite facing significant challenges, he has remained true to his passion for music, inspiring fans worldwide with his raw and authentic storytelling. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Merkules’ influence on the rap scene is set to grow, solidifying his place as one of Canada’s most prominent hip-hop figures.
