Cordae's real name is Cordae Amari Dunston. He was born on August 26, 1997, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Cordae's parents divorced when he was young, and he was raised by his mother and grandmother. Cordae's father was not present in his life, and he has said that he doesn't know much about him. Cordae's mother worked two jobs to support her family, and Cordae often had to fend for himself. Cordae's upbringing made him a strong and independent individual.
Cordae began writing rhymes when he was just eight years old. He was inspired by rappers like Jay-Z and Nas, and he dreamed of one day becoming a successful rapper himself. Cordae's passion for music led him to enroll in a performing arts high school, where he honed his rapping skills. After graduating from high school, Cordae attended North Carolina State University, but he dropped out after one semester to pursue his