Coolio

90s American rapper and Gangstas Paradise hitmaker

Coolio, born Artis Leon Ivey Jr. on August 1, 1963, was an American rapper, actor, and record producer who rose to fame in the mid-1990s. He is best known for his 1995 hit single "Gangsta's Paradise," which won a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance. The song was featured on the soundtrack of the film "Dangerous Minds" and became one of the most successful rap songs of all time. Coolio's music career began in the late 1980s, but he achieved widespread success with his 1994 debut album "It Takes a Thief," which included the hit single "Fantastic Voyage." Following the success of "Gangsta's Paradise," Coolio released his second studio album of the same name, which further cemented his place in hip-hop history. His third album, "My Soul," came out in 1997 and included singles like "C U When U Get There." Throughout his career, Coolio sold over 17 million records worldwide and became known for his unique style and contributions to the West Coast rap scene.