Lil Wayne
This artist became a rapper at the age of 9. Lil Wayne came from a tough childhood before exploring his talent for rapping as a member of the Hot Boys. With growing popularity, he pursued his solo career and released Tha Carter in 2004 and Tha Carter II in 2005. He was ready to take on the mantle o…
Mary J. Blige
She is known to be the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.” Mary J. Blige came from a tough childhood before becoming a singing sensation. Blige found an escape from her life through music and eventually dropped out of school before working with Puff Daddy. Her first album, “What’s the 411?”, was a hit, follow…
T-Pain
This artist is known for his use of Auto-Tune and pushing the boundaries of music. As a child, T-Pain knew he wanted to leave his hometown of Tallahassee to pursue his musical talents. He eventually discovered Auto-Tune and created a remix of Akon’s “Locked Up”, dubbed “F***ed Up”, which led to Ako…
Ludacris
He is a radio DJ turned Hip-Hop superstar. Ludacris built his career in music and acting by writing about his life and rapping on Atlanta radio stations, leading him to become a founding member of record label Disturbing tha Peace. Although he was a radio DJ under the name of Chris Lova Lova, Ludac…
Elton John
This Rocket Man is known for his flamboyant costumes and musical oeuvre. Elton John began his career as a talented pianist in the London suburbs where he created his debut album, “Empty Sky”, which began the course for Elton’s 7 consecutive #1 albums. The rock ‘n roll legend’s rush of superstardom …
Britney Spears
She’s one of the biggest stars in the world and a human highlight reel. The story behind Britney Spears’ early career comes from her aspirations too large for her small town. Britney knew she wanted to perform and see the world after her early roles in off-broadway plays and The Mickey Mouse Club, …
Carrie Underwood
The most successful American Idol winner, Carrie Underwood, went from farm girl to superstar. After winning American Idol’s fourth season in 2005, Carrie performed a 47 state tour that introduced fans to #1 hits like “Jesus Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats” off her debut album, Some Hearts. He…
TLC
One of the highest selling pop girl groups of all time, TLC, has influenced multiple genres of music that will be felt for generations to come. Tionne “T-Boz'' Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas defined girl power and individuality in the 90s. Their third album “Fan Mail'' …
Missy Elliott
As one of the best selling female rappers of all time, Missy Elliot climbed to the top on her own terms. Growing up as an only child, Missy faced poverty, despair, and abuse. She used music as an outlet to escape and eventually created the group “Fayze” where she signed with Swing Mob. Missy’s musi…
Jennifer Hudson
R&B superstar Jennifer Hudson displays natural, raw talent in both music and acting. After her auditions for American Idol in 2004, Jennifer became the local celebrity for Chicago. Her vocal prowess landed her a starring role in the film, “Dreamgirls”, where her performance earned her over 30 award…