Wiz Khalifa

Wiz Khalifa, born Cameron Jibril Thomaz, is a rapper, singer-songwriter, entrepreneur, and actor recognized for his enduring presence in the hip-hop industry. Khalifa began writing lyrics as a child and, by his mid-teens, was recording at Pittsburgh's I.D. Labs studio, where he secured free recording time in exchange for an internship. He signed with Rostrum Records and released his debut studio album, "Show and Prove," marking the start of a prolific career in rap music.

Khalifa gained national attention after independently releasing "Deal or No Deal" and the mixtape "Kush & Orange Juice," which became a significant release in hip-hop and topped Google's Hot Search Trends. This momentum led to recognition from The Source and MTV, and a subsequent deal with Atlantic Records. His first single with Atlantic, "Black and Yellow," paid tribute to Pittsburgh and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, earning Grammy nominations for Best Rap Song and Best Rap Performance. His major-label debut album, "Rolling Papers," debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and achieved double-platinum certification from the RIAA.

Khalifa continued to chart with albums such as "O.N.I.F.C.," "Blacc Hollywood," and "Rolling Papers 2," and collaborated with artists across genres. His feature on Maroon 5's "Payphone" peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, while "See You Again" with Charlie Puth, featured on the "Furious 7" soundtrack, spent 12 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100 and received RIAA diamond certification. The song earned a Golden Globe nomination, multiple Grammy nominations, and Billboard Music Awards for Top Hot 100 Song and Top Rap Song. Khalifa also received the BET Award for Best New Artist and the Teen Choice Award for "See You Again."

In addition to his music career, Khalifa is an entrepreneur and cultural influencer. He founded Taylor Gang Entertainment, a record label and lifestyle brand, and launched the cannabis brand Khalifa Kush, which expanded into dispensaries nationwide. He also introduced Mistercap's, a mushroom wellness brand. Khalifa's acting credits include a recurring role as Death on Apple TV+ series "Dickinson," a starring role in the comedy film "Mac & Devin Go to High School," and voice work in animated series such as "American Dad!" and "Duncanville." With a discography that includes seven studio albums, 26 mixtapes, and more than 100 singles, Khalifa is recognized as a versatile and influential figure in contemporary hip-hop, music production, and entertainment entrepreneurship.