Before it was the “official snack of hip hop,” Rap Snacks was just a big dream in the mind of Philadelphia native James Lindsay. Back in 1994, Lindsay had a vision: take the boldness of hip-hop and the flavor of your favorite corner store chips, and put them together in a way no one had ever seen. The result? A snack brand that was way ahead of its time with influencer marketing.
In an era when rappers were getting sneaker deals and clothing lines, Lindsay decided to play in a whole new lane. Partnering with Universal, he made history by putting rap icons Juvenile and Lil Wayne on the front of chip bags. That simple, but game-changing, idea created a cultural crossover that turned grocery store shelves into billboards for the culture. From there, legends like Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Meek Mill, Master P, and Pastor Troy joined the lineup, making Rap Snacks as much a part of hip-hop history as mixtapes and gold chains.
The brand didn’t just sell chips, it told stories, repped the culture, and made sure every bag was packed with personality. It was hip-hop you could taste, and every bite came with its own soundtrack.
Now, Lindsay is bringing it full circle. This fall, Rap Snacks will hit the shelves of Wawa—America’s #1 convenience store and a childhood favorite for the Philly-born CEO.
“Growing up in Philly, Wawa was my go-to spot. To soon see Rap Snacks on their shelves, it’s a full-circle moment and a dream come true,” Lindsay shared on social media. “I always wondered what it would feel like grabbing a sandwich and a bag of Rap Snacks at Wawa. Now I will know that feeling… Dreams do come true.”
From corner store cravings to nationwide shelves, Rap Snacks has always been more than a snack—it’s proof that with vision, flavor, and a little hustle, the culture can be everywhere. This fall, grab your Rap Snacks at a Wawa near you.
Cover photo: Rap Snacks Set to Hit Wawa Shelves This Fall/Photo credit: Rap Snacks/James Lindsay/Instagram