Wiz Khalifa Biography

Short Summary

Wiz Khalifa, born Cameron Jibril Thomaz, is an American rapper, singer, and actor known for his distinctive style and chart-topping hits. He gained widespread fame with his hit single "Black and Yellow," which became an anthem for the Pittsburgh Steelers. His career has been marked by a series of successful albums and collaborations with other artists. Beyond music, he has made significant cultural contributions, particularly in promoting cannabis culture.

Early Life & Education

Born on September 8, 1987, in Minot, North Dakota, Wiz Khalifa spent his early years moving frequently due to his parents' military service. After his parents' divorce, he settled in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he attended Taylor Allderdice High School. His stage name, 'Wiz,' was inspired by his uncle, while 'Khalifa' is derived from an Arabic word meaning 'successor.' Growing up, he was influenced by a mix of East Coast rap, Southern hip-hop, and his own diverse experiences. Khalifa began writing and performing his own lyrics by the age of nine, showing an early passion for music.

Career Highlights

Wiz Khalifa's career took off with his 2006 mixtape "Prince of the City: Welcome to Pistolvania" and his debut album "Show and Prove." His 2010 breakout single "Black and Yellow" topped the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying his status in mainstream music. Khalifa released several successful albums, including "Rolling Papers" and "O.N.I.F.C.," each receiving critical acclaim. He is known for his collaborations with prominent artists such as Snoop Dogg, Charlie Puth, and Juicy J. Khalifa's ventures into acting and entrepreneurship have further expanded his influence in popular culture.

Major Achievements

Won a Billboard Music Award for Top New Artist in 2012.
"See You Again" with Charlie Puth became one of the best-selling singles worldwide.
Received numerous nominations, including Grammy and American Music Awards.
Named "Best New Artist" at the 2011 BET Awards.
Established a successful cannabis product line, Khalifa Kush.

Famous Quotes

"Be who you are and let everyone love that person."
"I don't regret my past, I just regret the time I've wasted on the wrong people."

Interesting Facts

His stage name, Wiz Khalifa, was inspired by his uncle and an Arabic word meaning "successor."
He is a well-known advocate for marijuana legalization.
Wiz Khalifa has a son named Sebastian with model Amber Rose.
He has made cameo appearances in several films and TV shows.
He holds a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

Legacy / Influence

Wiz Khalifa's influence extends beyond music, impacting fashion, lifestyle, and cannabis culture. His unique blend of hip-hop and personal style has inspired a new generation of artists. He is credited with popularizing Pittsburgh's music scene and has left a lasting legacy through his entrepreneurial ventures and advocacy for cannabis legalization.