name	Turn My Swag On
cover	Turn My Swag On.jpg
artist	Soulja Boy
album	iSouljaBoyTellem
released	January 26, 2009
recorded	2008
genre	Hip hop, Rap, Snap, Crunk&B;
length	3:31
label	Stacks on Deck Entertainment/Collipark Music/HHH/Interscope
writer	DeAndre Way
producer	Natural Disaster, Antonio "Top Cat" Randolph
last single	"Kiss Me Thru the Phone"(2008)
this single	"Turn My Swag On"(2009)
next single	"LOL :-)"(2009) }}

"Turn My Swag On" is the title of a song written and recorded by American rapper Soulja Boy. It was released in January 2009 as the third single from his 2008 album ''iSouljaBoyTellem''. It was performed at the 2009 BET Awards. The song topped the US Rap Charts and peaked at #19 on the Hot 100. it has so far sold over 1,000,000 digital downloads in the US. It became Soulja Boy's third song to sell 1 million or more downloads, after "Kiss Me Thru The Phone" and "Crank Dat (Soulja Boy)".

Music video[link]

The music video was directed by Matt Alonzo and shot at roger flouton house in Beverly Hills. The music video peaked at #1 on the Top 10 countdown of BET's ''106 & Park''. The video follows the theme of the song, with Soulja Boy Tellem appearing in the house while singing the song. It was leaked to YouTube before its official release date. The video ranked at #5 on BET's Notarized: Top 100 Videos of 2009 countdown.

Remixes[link]

The official remix has a new verse by Soulja Boy and features Lil' Wayne using the Auto-Tune effect. The song was leaked onto the internet and YouTube on February 12, 2009. This remix charted at #65 on the US Hot 100 Airplay Chart.

R Kelly, Yung L.A., Jim Jones, Jadakiss, Rochelle Perts, Maino, Fabolous, Young Jeezy, Chingo Bling, Gucci Mane, Busta Rhymes, Keri Hilson, Teairra Mari, Tyga and Chamillionaire have made their own freestyles to the song. New R&B; group Richgirl have made their own cover to the song. In December 2010 teen rapper Izzy Moss released a song onto the internet titled "Touchdown" in response to Soulja Boy's "Turn My Swag On", in which he mimick's the use of Soulja Boy's phrase "Turn my swag on" in the chorus of his song. Willow Smith also followed the trend and used the phrase "Turn my swag on" in her hit single "Whip My Hair" in mid 2010. Lil' Kim & Teyana Taylor added on to Keri Hilson's dime diva remix, eliminating Keri's verses and replacing them with a verse each of their own. Keri is kept on the chit.

Atlanta Hip-hop producer Greg Street created a remix of the song on 2009, combining Keri Hilson & Yung L.A.'s freestyles with the Soulja Boy original, which reached #17 on the UK Singles Chart in September 2010. It can be found on his 2009 mixtape album ''Sertified Worldwide''. It received interest after the Keri Hilson version was covered by Cher Lloyd on the seventh series of ''The X Factor'' and the only version available to download with Keri Hilson was the Greg Street version.

In the late summer of 2010, released Austria rapper Money Boy a cover version titled "Dreh den Swag auf" with German lyrics. The music video of it has been watched 15 million times on Youtube and that created a big media hype for Money Boy.

Track listing[link]

CD single # "Turn My Swag On" (album version) - 3:31 # "Turn My Swag On" (instrumental) - 3:31 # "Turn My Swag On" (Remix of album version) - 3:40 # "Turn My Swag On" (Remix of instrumental) - 3:40

Digital download # "Turn My Swag On"

Charts[link]

Chart (2009)	Peakposition
align="left"

End of year charts[link]

! Charts (2009)	! Position

mlb">Use as a bat song in MLB

A number of professional baseball players have used or are currently using the song as their at bat song, including: Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers, Manny Burriss of the San Francisco Giants, Hanley Ramirez of the Florida Marlins, Brandon Phillips of the Cincinnati Reds, Carlos Ruiz of the Philadelphia Phillies, Marcus Thames of the Detroit Tigers, Andruw Jones of the Texas Rangers, Matt Kemp of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ryan Garko of the San Francisco Giants, Nick Swisher of the New York Yankees, Ian Stewart of the Colorado Rockies, Adam Jones of the Baltimore Orioles, Jack Cust of the Oakland Athletics, Coco Crisp of the Oakland Athletics, Ryan Howard of the Philadelphia Phillies, and Nick Green of the Boston Red Sox.

References[link]

Category:2009 singles Category:Soulja Boy songs Category:Southern hip hop songs Category:Songs written by Soulja Boy Category:Singles certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America

sv:Turn My Swag On tr:Turn My Swag On

Name	Soulja Boy
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	DeAndre Cortez Way
Alias	Soulja Boy Tell 'Em
Birth date	July 28, 1990
Birth place	Chicago, Illinois
Origin	Batesville, Mississippi, United States
Occupation	Rapper
Genre	Hip hop
Years active	2005–present
Label	Stacks on Deck/Collipark Music/Interscope
Associated acts	Arab, Mr. Collipark
Website	}}

DeAndre Cortez Way (born July 28, 1990), better known by his stage name Soulja Boy Tell 'Em, or simply Soulja Boy, is an American rapper, record producer, actor, and entrepreneur.

In September 2007, his single "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The single was initially self-published on the internet, and it later became a number-one hit in the United States for seven non-consecutive weeks starting in September 2007. On August 17 Way was listed at #18 on the Forbes list of Hip-Hop Cash Kings of 2010 earning $7 million for that year.

Way has currently released three studio albums and one independent album: his debut studio album ''Souljaboytellem.com'' (2007) was certified platinum by the RIAA. However, his next two albums, ''iSouljaBoyTellem'' (2008) and ''The DeAndre Way'' (2010) did not match the commercial success of his debut, the latter only selling 100,000 copies, despite the success of several singles across both albums, such as "Kiss Me Thru the Phone" and "Turn My Swag On" (''iSouljaBoyTellem'') and "Pretty Boy Swag" (''The DeAndre Way'').

On October 18, 2011, Soulja Boy released his documentary bio pic, ''Soulja Boy: The Movie''.

As of 2011, Way has confirmed he is working on his fourth studio album, entitled ''Promise'', which will be released in April 2012.

Early life[link]

DeAndre Way was born in Chicago and moved to Atlanta at age 6, where he became interested in rap music.

Career beginnings[link]

At age 14, he moved to Batesville, Mississippi, with his father, who provided a recording studio for Way to explore his musical ambitions. In November 2005, Way posted his songs on the website SoundClick. Following positive reviews on the site, he then established his own web pages on YouTube and MySpace. In March 2007, he recorded "Crank That" and released his first independent album ''Unsigned & Still Major: Da Album Before da Album'', followed by a low-budget video filmed demonstrating the "Crank That" dance. By the end of May 2007, "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" received its first airplay and Way met with Mr. Collipark to sign a deal with Interscope Records.

Music career[link]

2007-08: ''Souljaboytellem.com''[link]

On August 12, 2007, the song appeared on the Emmy-award winning HBO series ''Entourage'', and by September 1, it topped the Billboard Hot 100 and Hot RingMasters charts. Way's major label debut album ''Souljaboytellem.com'', which was reportedly recorded using just the demo version of FL Studio, was released in the United States on October 2, peaking at #4 on both the Billboard 200 and Top R&B;/Hip-Hop Albums charts.

For the 50th Grammy Awards, Way was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Song with "Crank That (Soulja Boy)". He lost to Kanye West's and T-Pain's "Good Life".

''Souljaboytellem.com'' received a favorable review from Allmusic, but received mainly negative reviews from other sources such as ''Entertainment Weekly''. Several reviewers credited Soulja Boy with spearheading a new trend in hip-hop, while speculating he will likely be a one-hit wonder.

2008-09: ''iSouljaBoyTellem''[link]

The follow-up to ''souljaboytellem.com'', ''iSouljaBoyTellem'', was released on December 16, 2008, to negative critical reception. The first single from the album, "Bird Walk", peaked at #40 on the ''Billboard'' Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart and the top 20 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart it was performed on the first ''YouTube Live'' on November 22, 2008, with an introduction from MC Hammer. "Kiss Me Thru the Phone", with Sammie, followed, peaking at #3 on the Hot 100 and #1 on the Hot Rap Tracks charts. Chris Brown was originally Way's first choice to sing the hook, but respectfully turned down the offer. Way then tried to do it on his own with Auto-Tune but he found it unacceptable. It sold over 2,000,000 digital copies in the United States, becoming his second song to reach the two million mark in downloads.

On January 26, 2009 Way released his third single "Turn My Swag On". it topped the US Rap Charts and peaked at #19 on the Billboard Hot 100. It has so far sold more than 1,000,000 digital downloads in the United States. It became Soulja Boy's third song to sell 1 million or more downloads.

2009-2010: ''The DeAndre Way''[link]

''The DeAndre Way'' is Way's third studio album, Way has stated that the album is intended to be his most personal and successful album thus far. When speaking on possible collaborations, he stated he wished to work with artists such as Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, and Kanye West, Eminem, among others. The lead single from the album, "POW", was released in January 2009 but failed to garner success and was dubbed a promo single. On October 30, 2009 Way released three mixtapes ''Paranormal Activity'', ''Dat Piff'' & ''Cortez''. Then it was announced on February 18, 2010 that the first single from the album was gone be "All Black Everything" but it was cancelled & was just put on his promotional mixtape ''Legendary''. The album was titled "The DeAndre Way" but was changed in early 2010 to ''Dre'' with a commercial video snippet for "Do It Big" as the first single but it was cancelled as well. However it was reverted back to ''The DeAndre Way'' in July 2010.

But on June 8, 2010, the official lead single from the album was "Pretty Boy Swag". The single has reached #34 on the Billboard Hot 100, number six on the Billboard Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart and number five on the Billboard Rap Songs chart. The album's second single was due to be "Digital" but it was just used on his promotional mixtape ''Best Rapper''. Then it was announced that "Speakers Going Hammer" was gone be the second single, but "Blowing Me Kisses" was released on August 31, 2010 as the second single instead. On October 13 Soulja Boy performed "Pretty Boy Swag" & a snippet of his third single "Speakers Going Hammer". On October 19, 2010 Way finally released "Speakers Going Hammer" on iTunes the single peaked at #48 on the ''Hot R&B; & Hip Hop tracks'' Billboard. ''The DeAndre Way'' was released on November 30, 2010 it has so far has only sold 70,000 copies making this Way's lowest selling album. Soulja Boy was to be part of the Summerbeatz tour held in Australia alongside Flo Rida, Jay Sean and Travie McCoy in November 2010, but in lieu of his current album release date Soulja Boy had declined the offer & just embarked on his Who They Want tour.

2011-present: Mixtapes and ''Promise''[link]

On January 22, Way released his first mixtape of 2011 ''Smooky'' which cover featured a cartoon version of Way on a bicycle doing a 360. Then On March 17, 2011 Way released the mixtape ''1up'' which cover was based on the Naruto anime Way stated "If I was in a video game, this mixtape would advance me to the next level with an extra life. Power up with the new offering". On April 20, 2011 Way released his mixtape ''Juice'' which cover was based on the ''Juice'' the movie Way stated he would also released a mini movie of his own to go along with the mixtape Way stated that he was headed to greatness with the mixtape. In September 2011, Way confirmed he is working on a new album, called ''Promise'', which will be released in October. Way also released the cover & title of his second independent album via Twitter, entitled "Skate Boy", which he said would be available in stores November 1, also via twitter.

Other ventures[link]

Stacks on Deck Entertainment[link]

name	Stacks on Deck Entertainment
founded	2004
founder	DeAndre "Soulja Boy" Way (CEO)Michael "Miami Mike" Sykes (President)
status	Active
distributor	Interscope (2007-present) Universal Motown (2009-2011)
genre	Hip-hop, Southern rap, pop, Crunk, R&B;
country	United States
location	Atlanta, Georgia (2007-present)
url	http://sodmg.com/ }}

Way founded his record label Stacks on Deck Entertainment in 2004. While Way was signed under Interscope and Collipark Music, he claimed that his label had distribution deals with Universal Music Group and eOne Music.

;Current artists

Soulja Boy (Interscope/Collipark Music/SODMG)(CEO)

Ja-Bar (TOKE Team/SODMG)

Arab (Boss Money/SODMG)

KillaCam (SODMG)

350 (SODMG)

Rashad (SODMG)

Antonio aka Tony The Deity (SODMG)

J-Money aka J. Futuristic (SODMG)

Spinning 9 (SODMG Germany/SODMG)

M2ThaK (SODMG)

Calico Jonez (SODMG)

Riff Raff (SODMG)

Young Sam (SODMG)

Agoff (Ocean Gang/SODMG)

Young L (Ocean Gang/SODMG)

John Boy (SODMG)

Chief Keef (SODMG)

;Managed DJ's

DJ Whoogie

;Managed Producers

Soulja Boy

G5Kids

Kwony Cash

R3$ource

Jay Clink

Supa Crank It

Lil Keis

Record production[link]

Way also produces records, including his own. In 2009 Way produced V.I.C.'s single "Get Silly" which went certified Gold & Bow Wow's single "Marco Polo". Way beats often contain the beginning lines "Soulja Boy Tell 'em" But as of late Way has produced beats without using the lines. Also in 2009 Way was also supposed to been producing for Kanye West's fourth studio album ''My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy'' & Kanye was supposed to been producing for Ways third studio album ''The DeAndre Way'' but for unknown reasons neither of them used each other's beats. On May 13, 2011 Way stated that he had produced & submitted beats for 50 Cent's fifth studio album

Fashion designing[link]

On March 5, 2008 Way released his official clothing line of S.O.D clothing. Then also in 2008 Way released his own brand of the popular shoe line entitled "Yums".

Acting career[link]

In January 7, 2009 Soulja Boy announced that he was supposed to been releasing his own cartoon entitled ''Soulja Boy: The Animated Series'' but only one episode was ever released. On April 22, 2011 Way announced that he would be making his acting debut playing the main role as Bishop on the ''Juice'' remake & that it would air on BET in sometime. On July 21, 2011 Way released the trailer to his upcoming documentary about his life entitled ''Soulja Boy: The Movie'' that was released on October 18, 2011.

Personal life[link]

Legal issues[link]

On December 9, 2007, Way was sued by William Lyons (a.k.a. Souljah Boy of Mo Thugs Family) who created the stage name "Souljah Boy" in 1996.

On October 7, 2009, Way was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia on one count of obstruction, a misdemeanor, for running from police when he'd been ordered to stop while filming a video in an abandoned house. The rapper was released on $550 bond.

In May 2011, Way and his labels were sued by a local Pennsylvania promoter for failing to make promised payments in connection with a rescheduled concert.

On October 18, 2011, Way was traveling west on I-20 in Carroll County, Georgia with four other men when their vehicle was pulled over for a vehicle equipment violation. The police officer who made the stop searched the vehicle and found more than five ounces of marijuana. Way was arrested and released on bond during the same day.

Victim of robbery and battery[link]

On December 30, 2008, Way was robbed and battered in his home. Initial reports indicated that the robbers were six masked men with AK-47s and pistols but on December 31, 2008, video clips surfaced on the Internet of two masked men claiming sole credit for the crime. Soulja Boy described the incident to MTV News a month later: He had come home very late at night after attending an album release party and was recording songs with friends when the robbers came in pointing their guns.

Family tragedies[link]

On the night of March 22, 2011, Way's little brother Deion Jenkins was killed in a car crash. Then on March 24, 2011 Way's older brother threatened to commit suicide.

Controversies[link]

Way's music has been banned from some school dances for sexual or violent content and/or innuendos. However, he has denied these claims. In the original YouTube video for "Shootout", Soulja Boy demonstrates his dance while holding a handgun in each hand and pretending to shoot into the audience.

Nas[link]

On February 25, 2008, Way said in an interview that "Nas killed hip hop and his own career". Way later apologized for his comments.

Ice-T[link]

In June 2008, on DJ Cisco's ''Urban Legend'' mixtape, Ice-T told Way to "eat a dick" and criticized Way for "killing hip-hop" and his song "Crank That" for being "garbage" compared to the works of other hip-hop artists such as Rakim, Das EFX, Big Daddy Kane and Ice Cube. The two then traded videos back and forth over the Internet. Rapper Kanye West defended Way by arguing that the younger artist created a new, original work for hip-hop, thus keeping the authentic meaning of the music. The feud was parodied in a 2010 episode of The Boondocks.

In May 2011, Way's feud somewhat reignited with Ice-T again regarding The film ''Juice''. Way stated he would also released a movie of his own to go along with his mixtape of the same name again somewhat reignited with Ice-T following a statement during Ice-T's interview with Shade 45 in late April 2011. Ice-T stated that Way's role as Bishop, which was famously originated by Tupac Shakur was not an issue. But Ice-T would find the fact that the film being remade is problematic saying ""What?” he said. “But that’s Pac… At some point, somebody gotta stop it. I came out. I made some statements. Man, I don’t know. Do you, dude, do you. If the masses accept it, it shows you the state we’re in… Come on man, you think I’d try to remake Pac’s movie? Good luck though, I'm not a hater...eh." Way himself barraged Ice-T with retaliatory tweets on the same day, joking that someone should "get this guy a hairline."

Charles Hamilton[link]

On December 9, 2008, Charles Hamilton commented in a interview by saying that Way was making it harder for new artists to be signed. Way responded by saying "X out the Sonic and fuck with Mario, you might want to got damn eat a mushroom." Charles Hamilton responded with the diss song "I'm You Last Year With Talent". Then the diss song "Word Aight".

Bow Wow[link]

On February 2, 2009, Way challenged Bow Wow to a race in their Lamborghinis and claimed Bow Wow's Lamborghini was a rental. On February 4, 2009 Bow Wow proved that he owned his Lamborghini and said "its halloween in Bankhead for you everyday nigga..you scared..you all nervous and shit". Way responded on twitter by saying "HE FUCKED UP!!!! IM BOUT TO SHITTTT ON THIS NIGGA!! LOL!!!!!". On February 7, 2009 both artist sent diss songs to each other such as Way's "Fuck Bow Wow" & Bow Wow's "What I Think About You". Later that day during a phone conversation both rappers settled their differences.

Fabolous[link]

On December 28, 2010, Fabolous during a radio interview commented on the claim that Way does cocaine, saying "pretty boy swag but never coke my nose though", a reference to Way's song "Pretty Boy Swag. "Soulja Boy went on a tirade on Twitter in response, saying "I ignore dis foo like 5x before this. fuck that. If you send some niggaz to spray me @myfabolouslife at least I die I real nigga fuck you boy." 50 Cent also took to Twitter to say, "leave him the f*** alone before somebody get hurt." Way and Fabolous ended their beef on a radio interview.

U.S. Military[link]

In September 2011, Soulja Boy released the song "Let's Be Real". One of the lines of the song went: ''"Fuck the FBI and the army troops ... fighting for what? Be your own man ... I'll be flying through the clouds with green like I'm Peter Pan."'' After the song was released, Soulja Boy was highly criticized by the military members and their families, especially in regards to the timing relative to the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Soulja Boy apologized, "When I expressed my frustration with the US Army, not only did my words come out wrong, I was wrong to even speak them." He adds, "So, I write this to give my sincerest apology to all members of the United States military services, as well as their families that were offended by my most recent lyrics." Representatives for Soulja Boy have indicated that the song has been pulled from his upcoming album, ''Promise'', and will not be available for sale. They are also attempting to remove the video from the internet.

On September 7, 2011, the New York Times cited the U.S. military has announced an official ban on Way's music. Way apologized for the content of the song and has offered to do free performances for American soldiers.

Discography[link]

;Studio albums

''Souljaboytellem.com'' (2007)

''iSouljaBoyTellem'' (2008)

''The DeAndre Way'' (2010)

''Promise'' (2012)

;Independent albums

''Unsigned and Still Major: Da Album Before da Album'' (2007)

;Collaboration albums

''Maserati Boys'' (TBA) (with Ja-Bar)

Tours[link]

''America's Most Wanted'' (2009)

''Who They Want'' (2011)

Filmography[link]

Film
! Year	! Film	! Role	! Notes
2007	''YouTube Live''	Himself	Small Role
2008	''What's at Stake?'''	Himself	Small Role
2009	''School Gyrls''	Himself	Cameo
2010	''Malice N Wonderland''	Soulja	Small Role
	''Soulja Boy: The Movie''	as Himself	Documentary on his life
''TBA''	''TBA''
Television
! Year	! Title	! Role	! Notes
	''The Ellen DeGeneres Show''	Himself
''Last Call with Carson Daly''	Himself
	''Live with Regis''	Himself	Minor appearance
''Access Granted''	Himself	For his music video for "Bird Walk"
''My Super Sweet 16''	Himself
	''When I Was 17''	Himself
''The Mo'Nique Show''	Himself
''Late Night with Jimmy Fallon''	Himself
''Lopez Tonight''	Himself
''The Tonight Show with Jay Leno''	Himself

Awards and nominations[link]

BET Awards

*2007: Best New Artist (Nominated)

*2008: Viewer's Choice Award: "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" (Nominated)

*2009: Viewer's Choice Award: "Kiss Me Thru the Phone" (Nominated)

BET Hip-Hop Awards

*'2007: Best Hip-Hop Dance (Won)'

Grammy Awards

*2008: Best Rap Song: "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" (Nominated)

Ozone Awards

*'2007: Patiently Waiting: Mississippi (Won)'

*2008: Best Breakthrough Artist (Nominated)

*2008: TJ's DJ's Tastemaker Award (Nominated)

Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards

*2007: Favorite Male Singer (Nominated)

Teen Choice Awards

*2009: Choice Music: Rap Artist (Nominated)

*2009: Choice Music: R&B; Track for "Kiss Me Thru the Phone" (Nominated)

*2009: Choice Music: Hook Up for "Kiss Me Thru the Phone"

*2009: Choice Music: Artist (Nominated)

See also[link]

List of artists who reached number one in the United States

References[link]

External links[link]

Category:1990 births Category:Living people Category:Actors from Mississippi Category:African American rappers Category:African-American businesspeople Category:African-American fashion designers Category:African American film actors Category:American hip hop record producers Category:American Internet personalities Category:American music industry executives Category:American music video directors Category:American pop musicians Category:Interscope Records artists Category:People from Panola County, Mississippi Category:Rappers from Atlanta, Georgia Category:Rappers from Chicago, Illinois Category:Rappers from Mississippi Category:Southern hip hop musicians

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name	Keri Hilson
background	solo_singer
birth name	Keri Lynn Hilson
birth date	December 05, 1982
genre	R&B;, pop
occupation	Singer, songwriter, dancer, actress
years active	2001–present
label	Zone 4, Mosley Music, Interscope
associated acts	The Clutch, Polow da Don, Timbaland, Chris Brown, Akon, Kanye West
website	}}

Keri Lynn Hilson (born December 5, 1982) is an American singer, songwriter and actress. She was born and raised in Decatur, Georgia, and spent most of her youth working with producer Anthony Dent, as a songwriter and background vocalist for several R&B; and hip hop artists. By the age of 14, Hilson had secured a record deal with the girl group D'Signe, who later disbanded. She attended Emory University in Atlanta, while she continued writing songs for artists, including Britney Spears and Mary J. Blige, with the production and songwriting team, The Clutch. In 2006, Hilson signed with American rapper and producer Timbaland's record label, Mosley Music. Her breakthrough came the following year after appearing on Timbaland's single, "The Way I Are", which topped charts around the world.

Hilson's debut studio album, ''In a Perfect World...'', was released in 2009, and debuted at number four on the US ''Billboard'' 200 chart, eventually being certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). The album spawned the hit singles, "Knock You Down", "Turnin Me On" and "I Like". It also earned Hilson two Grammy Award nominations for Best New Artist and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Knock You Down". Her second studio album, ''No Boys Allowed'', was released in 2010 and was considerably less successful than its predecessor; however, it included the hit single, "Pretty Girl Rock". Hilson's achievements include a BET Award, MOBO Award, NAACP Image Award and two Soul Train Music Awards. Apart from her work in music, she has pursued a career in acting. Hilson made her acting debut in the romantic comedy film, ''Think Like a Man'', in 2012.

Biography [link]

1982–2007: Early life and career beginnings [link]

Keri Lynn Hilson was born on December 5, 1982 in Decatur, Georgia. She was raised in an African-American neighborhood and came from a middle class family. Hilson and her siblings did not attend a school within the neighborhood because her parents cared a lot for their education, stating that "they shipped us off for an hour to get to school every day. It was just that important for us to maintain the life that they had created". From the age of 12, Hilson wanted to pursue a musical career, after watching television talent shows, ''Star Search'' and ''Showtime at the Apollo''. Her mother then hired a piano teacher to give her piano lessons; however, Hilson wanted to become a singer and therefore "converted those sessions into vocal lessons, accompanying the teacher on piano". By the age of 14, Hilson had secured a record deal with the girl group D'Signe, who later disbanded.

Hilson spent most of her teenage years working with producer Anthony Dent, as a songwriter and background vocalist for the likes of Usher, Ludacris, Kelly Rowland, Ciara and Polow da Don. After graduating from high school, Hilson attended Emory University in Atlanta for three years and studied a course in theater. She continued working as a songwriter and background vocalist during her schooling years. Hilson eventually stopped working with Dent, and began working more with Polow da Don. She also became a member of the songwriting and production team, The Clutch. Together, they wrote Mary J. Blige's "Take Me as I Am" (2006), Omarion's "Ice Box" (2006), Ciara's "Like a Boy" (2006), The Pussycat Dolls' "Wait a Minute" (2007) and Britney Spears' "Gimme More" (2007). In 2006, Polow introduced Hilson to American rapper and producer Timbaland, who then signed her to his record label, Mosley Music Group. In November 2006, Hilson was featured on American rapper Lloyd Banks' single, "Help", for his album ''Rotten Apple'' (2006).

The following year, Hilson was featured on three singles; in June, on Timbaland's song "The Way I Are", the second single from his album ''Shock Value'' (2007); on Rich Boy's "Good Things" with Polow da Don; and thereafter, in December, on Timbaland's song "Scream" with Nicole Scherzinger, the fifth single from ''Shock Value''. Out of the three singles, "The Way I Are" achieved the most success, topping nine charts around the world.

2008–09: ''In a Perfect World...'' [link]

In 2008, Hilson appeared in the music videos for Usher's single, "Love in This Club", and Ne-Yo's single, "Miss Independent". Her debut studio album, ''In a Perfect World...'', was released on March 24, 2009. The album contained pop-oriented R&B; songs. It was initially planned to be released the previous year; however, the album was delayed several times because Hilson wanted to make sure it came out to her liking, stating "I'm just a perfectionist. I have had many [release dates], but it's all for a good cause. The label wants to make sure the album has its proper release, and I'm thankful for that. Very grateful, even though fans look at it like it's a bad thing." In the US, ''In a Perfect World...'' debuted at number four on the ''Billboard'' 200 chart, and number one on the Top R&B;/Hip-Hop Albums chart, with first-week sales of 94,000 copies. By October 2009, the album was certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Its first single, "Energy", released in May 2008, peaked within the top eighty on the US ''Billboard'' Hot 100 chart. It reached the top fifty in the United Kingdom, and peaked the highest in New Zealand at number seven, and was certified gold in the country. Hilson also featured on three singles in 2008; in June, on rapper Nas' song "Hero"; in September, on Kardinal Offishall's "Numba 1 (Tide Is High)"; and thereafter, in October, on Chris Brown's song "Superhuman".

"Return the Favor", featuring Timbaland, served as the second international single from Hilson's ''In a Perfect World...'' album, while "Turnin Me On" featuring Lil Wayne, was released as the second US single. The latter achieved commercial success, reaching number 15 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100, and number two on the Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart, eventually being certified platinum in the US. The next single, "Knock You Down" featuring Kanye West and Ne-Yo, achieved more success, reaching number three on the Hot 100 and number one on the Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart, eventually being certified two times platinum. The song also reached the top ten in Canada, Ireland, The Netherlands, New Zealand and the United Kingdom. "Make Love", "Slow Dance", and "Change Me" featuring Akon, were released as the album's fourth, fifth and sixth US singles, respectively.

Hilson, along with Gym Class Heroes, Gorilla Zoe and T-Pain, were supporting acts on Lil Wayne's I Am Music Tour in North America. At the 2009 BET Awards, she was nominated in four categories, including Best New Artist, Best Female R&B; Artist, as well as Viewer's Choice and Best Collaboration for "Turnin Me On" with Lil Wayne. She eventually won the Best New Artist category. In 2009, Hilson was featured on five singles; "Number One" with R. Kelly, "She Don't Wanna" with Asher Roth, "Everything, Everyday, Everywhere" with Fabolous, "Medicine" with Plies, and on the remix of Sean Paul's song, "Hold My Hand". Hilson was nominated for Breakthrough Artist and Favorite Soul/R&B; Female Artist at the 2009 American Music Awards, but lost to Beyoncé Knowles. The re-released edition of ''In a Perfect World...'', in January 2010, included the single "I Like", which reached number one in Germany, Poland and Slovakia, and peaked within the top ten in Austria, Norway and Switzerland. At the 52nd Grammy Awards, Hilson was nominated for Best New Artist and Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Knock You Down" with Kanye West and Ne-Yo.

2010–present: ''No Boys Allowed'', acting debut and third studio album [link]

During the first half of 2010, Hilson guest featured on rapper Trina's single, "Million Dollar Girl", and on T.I.'s single, "Got Your Back". In April 2010, it was made known that she had replaced Jennifer Hudson as the new face of the cosmetics and personal care products company, Avon. "Breaking Point" was released as the first single from Hilson's second studio album, ''No Boys Allowed'', in September 2010; it only appeared on the US Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs Chart at number 44. On December 2, 2010, Hilson was among one of the many female artists who performed at the VH1 Divas Salute the Troops concert, where she sang "Turnin Me On", "Knock You Down", "Pretty Girl Rock", and a duet with American country music duo, Sugarland, on the Aretha Franklin song, "Think". ''No Boys Allowed'' was released on December 21, 2010. Described as a "girl power album", ''No Boys Allowed'' was primarily of the R&B; and pop genres. Despite the album's title, Hilson stated "it's not about excluding men. It's more about women understanding that there comes a time in your life when you want a man. A real man. A grown up. Not a boy. And that's not a bad thing." Speaking of the songs on the album, she explained "I write from a female perspective, but I'm also telling men what women are really thinking and feeling about them". In the US, ''No Boys Allowed'' debuted at number 11 on the ''Billboard'' 200, and number seven on the Top R&B;/Hip-Hop Albums chart, with first-week sales of 102,000 copies. Although it sold 8,000 copies more than her debut album, ''In a Perfect World...'', it failed to match that album's debut chart position of number four. As of February 2011, ''No Boys Allowed'' has sold 205,500 copies in the United States.

Hilson achieved success with the album's second single, "Pretty Girl Rock", which reached number 24 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 and number four on the Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs Chart, eventually being certified platinum. The single reached the top twenty in Germany and New Zealand, and top thirty in Austria and Slovakia. "One Night Stand" featuring Chris Brown, and "Lose Control (Let Me Down)" featuring Nelly, were released as the album's third and fourth singles, respectively. In 2011, she was featured on British rapper Chipmunk's single "In the Air", for his album ''Transition'' (2011). In April 2011, Hilson, along with many other R&B; and hip hop acts, traveled to Australia to be part of its biggest urban music festival, Supafest. At the 2011 BET Awards, Hilson was nominated for Best Female R&B; Artist and Video of the Year for "Pretty Girl Rock". In July 2011, she was a supporting act on the second leg of Lil Wayne's I Am Still Music Tour in North America, before embarking on her first headlining European tour in October.

During an interview with ''106 & Park'' on October 25, 2011, Hilson revealed that she has already begun recording her third studio album. She explained, "There's some people in the world that aren't gon' like this album coming from me. As I was experiencing the world, there were things that I was also experiencing on a personal front, and in my music it's coming out. There's a specific few people who ain't gon' like to listen to this album. Very emotional, I'll say that." She further explained in an interview with ''The Boombox'' that she's working on a new sound for the album, and described it as a mixture of her first two albums with some surprising elements thrown in. Hilson also said a release date has not been confirmed yet, saying "I just write about my experiences and keep the release dates far, far from me. When I feel that I have [good material] is when I will give it to the label. But I'm not quite there yet. I'm still working." Hilson made her acting debut in the romantic comedy film, ''Think Like a Man'', released on April 20, 2012. She will also star alongside Vin Diesel in the sci-fi action film, ''Riddick'' (2013), but it is unknown what role Hilson will play.

Musical style and influences [link]

Hilson's music is generally R&B; and pop. Her debut album, ''In a Perfect World...'', consists of a pop/R&B; style, with elements of electro music. Many of the album's themes deal with relationships, physical attraction and lovemaking. Hilson said, "lyrically it's a very vulnerable album. You know, I definitely didn't want to paint myself as perfect on this project. Instead, I wanted it to be something that was very relatable, especially to women". Her second album, ''No Boys Allowed'', displays a wide variety of styles, including pop, R&B;, hip hop, soul, acoustic, electronic and reggae. Hilson describes the album as "more self assured. It's a lot more aggressive". Kristin Macfarlane of ''The Daily Post'' noted that the album is "pure girl power and about being sexually confident, and confident as a woman; not putting up with crap relationships and getting your way". Hilson sings with "smooth vocals". Following the release of her debut album, Sophie Bruce of BBC Music expressed that, "there's no denying Hilson has a great voice, but it lacks the feisty edge of [Nicole] Scherzinger, [Mary J.] Blige or [Beyoncé] Knowles". Mark Nero of About.com commented, "Keri's voice, while strong, isn't particularly distinctive or memorable". Hilson has stated that her musical influences come from her father's side of the family. In addition, she cites Michael Jackson and Lauryn Hill as inspirations.

Philanthropy [link]

Besides her career in music, Hilson has also been involved with several charities. In January 2010, she teamed up with Akon on the charity single, "Oh Africa". All proceeds of the single benefited underprivileged African youth. The following month, Hilson joined the extended list of artists during the recording session of the single, "We Are the World 25 for Haiti", to benefit victims of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. On May 25, 2010, she performed at the Virginia Stand Up! A Call to Action benefit concert, organized by Chris Brown to help with continued relief efforts in Haiti. On October 21, 2010, Hilson attended Collins Academy High School in Chicago as part of the Get Schooled National Challenge and Tour, a "program aimed at increasing high school and college graduation rates and promoting the importance of education". A year later, she received a Get Schooled Award for her involvement with the program. In 2011, Hilson contributed in the fight against AIDS, by posing in retail-clothing company H&M;'s celebrity-driven collection for Fashion Against AIDS. 25% of all sales from the collection were donated to the Designers Against Aids charity.

In June 2011, Hilson became an ambassador for MTV Staying Alive, a foundation which raises awareness and prevention of HIV and AIDS. In September 2011, she lent her support to US First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! campaign, which aims to combat childhood obesity. She made t-shirts for the campaign that read "Pretty Girls Sweat", and exercised with the young women at The Educational Alliance's Sirovich Senior Center in New York on September 24. During Hilson's visit in Africa in November 2011, she stopped by an orphanage to visit her young fans who had lost their families during the 2010–2011 Ivorian crisis. She gave each orphan a "care" package, which consisted of bookbags, t-shirts, sunglasses, notebooks and an electric keyboard. In April 2012, Hilson teamed up with DoSomething.org to encourage young people to join in the nationwide Epic Book Drive by bringing books to local people in need. In a press release, she stated: "Joining DoSomething.org's newest effort to provide for people in need with Epic Book Drive was the easiest decision ever!. I truly believe providing access to those who want to learn is the key to bettering lives around the country. And helping kids find healthy outlets, such as books, has always been a passion of mine. So my involvement here is a natural fit."

Discography [link]

''In a Perfect World...'' (2009)

''No Boys Allowed'' (2010)

Filmography [link]

''Riddick (film)

+Films	Year	! Title	! Role	! Notes
2012	''Think Like a Man''	Heather
2013	Riddick'' ||

Tours [link]

Headlining

European Tour (2011)

Supporting

I Am Music Tour (2009) (with Lil Wayne)

I Am Still Music Tour (2011) (with Lil Wayne)

Awards and nominations [link]

|- | style="text-align:center;"|2007 |"The Way I Are" (Timbaland featuring D.O.E. and Keri Hilson) |MTV Video Music Award for Monster Single of the Year | |- |rowspan="14" style="text-align:center;"|2009 |rowspan="4"|Herself |American Music Award for Favorite Female R&B;/Soul Artist | |- |American Music Award for Breakthrough Artist | |- |BET Award for Best New Artist | |- |BET Award for Best Female R&B; Artist | |- |rowspan="2"|"Turnin Me On" (with Lil Wayne) |BET Award for Viewer's Choice | |- |BET Award for Best Collaboration | |- |''In a Perfect World...'' |Urban Music Award for Best Album | |- |rowspan="4"|Herself |Urban Music Award for Best Female Act | |- |MOBO Award for Best International Act | |- |MOBO Award for Best R&B;/Soul Act | |- |Soul Train Music Award for Best New Artist | |- |"Turnin Me On" (with Lil Wayne) |Soul Train Music Award for Song of the Year | |- |rowspan="3"|"Knock You Down" (with Kanye West and Ne-Yo) |Soul Train Music Award for Best Collaboration | |- |Soul Train Music Award for Record of the Year | |- |rowspan="4" style="text-align:center;"|2010 |Grammy Award for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration | |- |rowspan="2"|Herself |Grammy Award for Best New Artist | |- |NAACP Image Award for Outstanding New Artist | |- |"Got Your Back" (T.I. featuring Keri Hilson) |Soul Train Music Award for Best Hip-Hop Song | |- |rowspan="4" style="text-align:center;"|2011 |"Pretty Girl Rock" |BET Award for Video of the Year | |- |rowspan="2"|Herself |BET Award for Best Female R&B; Artist | |- |Get Schooled Award | |- |"Pretty Girl Rock" |Soul Train Music Award for Best Dance Performance | |}

References[link]

External links[link]

Category:Keri Hilson Category:1982 births Category:Living people Category:African American female singer-songwriters Category:American rhythm and blues singer-songwriters Category:American dance musicians Category:Emory University alumni Category:Interscope Records artists Category:Musicians from Georgia (U.S. state) Category:People from Decatur, Georgia

ar:كيري هيلسون cs:Keri Hilson da:Keri Hilson de:Keri Hilson es:Keri Hilson eo:Keri Hilson fa:کری هیلسون fr:Keri Hilson ko:케리 힐슨 hsb:Keri Hilson hr:Keri Hilson it:Keri Hilson he:קרי הילסון hu:Keri Hilson sw:Keri Hilson lv:Keri Hilsone mk:Кери Хилсон nl:Keri Hilson ja:ケリー・ヒルソン no:Keri Hilson pl:Keri Hilson pt:Keri Hilson ksh:Keri Lynn Hilson ro:Keri Hilson ru:Хилсон, Кери simple:Keri Hilson sr:Keri Hilson fi:Keri Hilson sv:Keri Hilson th:เคอรี ฮิลสัน tr:Keri Hilson zh:凯莉·希尔森

name	Alexa Goddard
background	solo_singer
birth date	December 21, 1988
origin	Blackwater, Hampshire
genre	Pop, R&B;
occupation	Singer
years active	2003–present
label	IdleIDOL
associated acts	Wiley, Mike Kalombo, Lauren Aquilina, Brett Domino, Stew "Stew Mac" McLean, Conor Maynard
website
notable instruments	}}

Alexa Goddard (born 21 December 1988) is an English pop and R&B; singer from Blackwater, Hampshire. Born in Camberley, Surrey, Goddard attended Yateley School before being spotted singing at a talent contest at the age of 14. From 2007 she featured on three consecutive winter tours of the United States and Canada with American band Trans-Siberian Orchestra and performed a solo on "Child of the Night", a track from the band's 2009 album ''Night Castle''.

In March 2010, Goddard created a YouTube channel with the username "AlexaMusicTV". She uploaded to this channel various videos of her own covers of R&B; hits. She released four cover versions as singles, using social media such as Twitter to promote them. The biggest-selling of these was her version of "Turn My Swag On", which charted at Number 20 on the UK Singles Chart and Number One on the UK Indie Chart.

Life and music career[link]

Alexa Goddard was born on 21 December 1988 in Camberley, Surrey, and was raised in Blackwater, Hampshire. She attended Yateley School from the age of 11 and was spotted singing at a talent contest when she was 14. As a result of her performance at this talent show, she began singing professionally and made regular recording sessions at a Sony subsidiary in Berlin.

In 2007, at the age of 18, Goddard was invited to join the American progressive rock band Trans-Siberian Orchestra on their winter tour of the United States and Canada. On 29 June 2008, she featured as one of approximately 400 performers at the UEFA Euro 2008 Final, where she sang "Off the Rails" and her first single, a cover of "Speechless" by The Veronicas. "Speechless" was released through the iTunes Store on 8 August, and was used to soundtrack a German advert for Ferrero Raffaello. Goddard was again invited back to perform on Trans-Siberian Orchestra's 2008 and 2009 winter tours, and featured on their 2009 multi-platinum selling album ''Night Castle'', where she had a solo on "Child of the Night" as well as providing backing vocals for other tracks.

On 13 March 2010, Goddard registered a YouTube channel under the username "AlexaMusicTV" with her manager and producer Stewart "Stew Mac" McLean. She uploaded to this channel videos of her own versions of well-known R&B; songs—her first uploads included her version of "Speechless", as well as covers of "Make You Feel My Love" by Bob Dylan, "Cry Me a River" by Justin Timberlake and "Sweet Dreams" by Beyoncé Knowles. Within a month, Goddard's videos had received over 1.5 million views and "AlexaMusicTV" had garnered over 7,000 subscribers. By April 2011, the channel had over 11 million views and 56,000 subscribers, being one of the most subscribed music channels in British YouTube history.

Goddard's second single was a cover of "Dynamite" by Taio Cruz, which was released through the iTunes Store by McLean's label IdleIDOL Records on 18 October 2010—this was then followed on 12 November by a release of her cover of "Whip My Hair" by Willow Smith. Just over two weeks later, on 29 November, Goddard released her fourth single through iTunes, a cover of Keri Hilson's remix of "Turn My Swag On" by Soulja Boy. The track was mainly promoted through word of mouth and use of social media, such as Twitter and Facebook. After being downloaded nearly 14,000 times in the UK, Goddard's single charted at Number 26 on the UK Singles Chart. The following week, the single climbed to Number 20 on the UK Singles Chart, and topped the UK Indie Chart. In December 2010, Goddard provided the female vocals on Brett Domino's cover of "Fairytale of New York" by The Pogues. The single peaked at Number 32 on the UK Indie Chart.

In March 2011, British rapper Wiley's single "Seduction", which features Goddard, premiered on radio; a video was shot two weeks later. The single was released on 2 May 2011.

Discography[link]

Singles[link]

{|class="wikitable" !rowspan="2"|Year !rowspan="2"|Title !colspan="2"|Chart peak positions !rowspan="2"|Album |- style="font-size:smaller;" !width="25"|UK !width="25"|UK indie |- |2008 |"Speechless" |align="center"|— |align="center"|— |rowspan=4|Non-album release |- |rowspan=3|2010 |"Dynamite" |align="center"|— |align="center"|— |- |"Turn My Swag On" |align="center"|20 |align="center"|1 |- |"Fairytale of New York" (with Brett Domino) |align="center"|— |align="center"|32 |- |- |align="center" colspan="5" style="font-size: 8pt"| "—" denotes a release that did not chart. |}

Other appearances[link]

The following songs have been officially released, but do not feature on an album by Goddard. {|class="wikitable" style="text-align:left;" |- !Year !Song !Album !Notes |- |2009 |"Child of the Night" |''Night Castle'' |Collaboration with Trans-Siberian Orchestra |- |}

See also[link]

List of YouTube personalities

References[link]

External links[link]

Category:Living people Category:English female singers Category:English pop singers Category:English rhythm and blues singers Category:People from Camberley Category:1988 births

Name	Lil' Kim
Background	solo_singer
Birth name	Kimberly Denise Jones
Born	July 11, 1974
Origin	Brooklyn, New York, USA
Genre	Hip hop
Occupation	Rapper, actress, model
Years active	1994 – present
Label	Queen Bee, Universal, Universal Republic, Interscope
Associated acts	Mary J. Blige, The Notorious B.I.G., Puff Daddy, Junior M.A.F.I.A., Mobb Deep
Website	}}

Kimberly Denise Jones (born July 11, 1974), better known by her stage name Lil' Kim, is an American rapper and actress who was a member of the group Junior M.A.F.I.A..

Jones was born and raised in Brooklyn, living much of her adolescent life on the streets after being expelled from home. As a teenager, Kim would rap for fun, being heavily influenced by other female MC'S like MC Lyte and Lady of Rage. When word got to The Notorious B.I.G. that she could rhyme, he made Jones perform a freestyle for him on the spot. Impressed with her, he took her in and she began her music career in 1995 with the group Junior M.A.F.I.A., whose debut album ''Conspiracy'' generated three hit singles. In late 1996, her solo debut album ''Hard Core'' was released. ''Hard Core'' was certified double platinum and spawned three consecutive #1 rap hits that included: "No Time" "Not Tonight (Ladies Night remix)" and "Crush on You", a record for a female rapper. Her following albums, ''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000) and ''La Bella Mafia'' (2003), both were certified platinum by the RIAA, making Kim the only female rapper besides Missy Elliott to have at least 3 platinum albums so far. Kim solidified her star power in 2001, when "Lady Marmalade", a song Kim was featured on, went to #1 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. That made her the first female rapper to earn a #1 on that chart. In 2005, she served a year long prison sentence for lying to a jury about her friends' involvement in a shooting four years earlier. During her incarceration, her fourth album ''The Naked Truth'' was released. Lil' Kim returned to the public spotlight in 2009 with an appearance on ''Dancing with the Stars''.

Early life[link]

Jones was born in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of the New York City borough Brooklyn to parents Linwood Jones and Ruby Mae. At the age of 9, her parents separated, and her father raised her until he expelled her from home when she was a teenager. Thus, she lived with her friends and even on the streets. While struggling through her personal life, Kim met The Notorious B.I.G., who was a key figure in both her personal and artistic life, particularly when Wallace had gained popularity and influence through his relationship with Bad Boy Records. As a teenager, Jones attended Brooklyn College Academy, the same school were fellow rappers Nas and Foxy Brown attended. She dropped out of high school as a teenager, and worked as a cashier for department store Bloomingdale's for a short period of time.

Music career[link]

Early career with Junior M.A.F.I.A.[link]

In 1994, B.I.G. was instrumental in introducing and promoting the Brooklyn based group, Junior M.A.F.I.A., which included Lil' Kim. The group's first and only album was titled ''Conspiracy''. Three hit singles came from ''Conspiracy'': "Player's Anthem" (peaked at #7 on the ''Billboard'' Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart and #2 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart), "I Need You Tonight" (#43 R&B;, #12 Rap), and "Get Money" (#17 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100, #4 R&B;, #2 Rap). The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified ''Conspiracy'' Gold on December 6, 1995, marking sales of 500,000 units. "Player's Anthem" was Gold, and "Get Money" went Platinum (sales of a million units).

''Hard Core'' (1996)[link]

After a year with Junior M.A.F.I.A., Jones began a solo career by making guest performances on R&B; albums and recording her debut album, ''Hard Core'', which was released in November 1996. The album peaked at #11 on the ''Billboard'' 200 and #3 on the ''Billboard'' Top R&B;/Hip-Hop Albums chart. ''Hard Core'' was RIAA-certified double platinum on March 14, 2001 after having been certified Gold on January 6, 1997 and Platinum on June 3, 1997. The album's lead single "No Time", a duet with Sean "Puff Daddy" Combs (who would later change his stage name to "P. Diddy" and then "Diddy"), reached the top spot of the ''Billboard'' Hot Rap Tracks chart and was certified Gold by the RIAA. The following single, "Crush on You", reached #6 on the Hot 100 and #2 on the rap chart. A remix of the album's track "Not Tonight" saw Lil' Kim team up with Missy Elliott, Angie Martinez, Da Brat and Left Eye of TLC. The song was part of the soundtrack to the Martin Lawrence movie ''Nothing To Lose'', nominated for a Grammy Award, and certified Platinum. In one stockholders' meeting of Warner Bros. Records, activist C. Delores Tucker criticized the label "for producing this filth," referring to perceived graphic sexual content in Kim's lyrics, and labeling them "gangsta porno rap".

''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000-2002)[link]

From 1998 to 2000, Kim continued her road to stardom under the management of B.I.G.'s best friend, Damion "D-Roc" Butler's "Roc Management", touring and modeling for various fashion and pop culture companies including Candies, Versace, Iceberg, and Baby Phat. In 1998, she performed in P. Diddy's "No Way Out" tour. In the same year, she launched her own label Queen Bee Entertainment and even though she had not had an album of her own released, she was seen on dozens of remixes and guest appearances on other artist's records. On June 27, 2000, Kim released her second album ''The Notorious K.I.M.'' The album marked a new image and revamped look for the rapper. Despite the limited success of its singles, the album reached #4 on the ''Billboard'' 200, and #1 on the Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It was certified platinum by the RIAA. It was on this LP that the well-known hip-hop feud between Lil' Kim and Foxy Brown blossmed.

In 2001, Lil' Kim teamed up with Christina Aguilera, Pink, and Mýa to remake "Lady Marmalade", which was originally written about a bordello in New Orleans and performed by the group Labelle (which included diva Patti LaBelle) 25 years earlier. The song was recorded for the ''Moulin Rouge!'' film soundtrack, released in April 2001, and stayed #1 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100 for five weeks. The song also went to #1 in 50 countries around the world. This was a big accomplishment for female rap, as well as for Kim, who scored her first #1 Hot 100 hit and became the first female rapper in history to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. "Lady Marmalade" also garnered Kim her first Grammy Award.

Lil' Kim also performed in two international hit singles. "In the Air Tonite", a remix of the Phil Collins song "In the Air Tonight" and duet with Collins, was released as a single from the Collins tribute album ''Urban Renewal''. "Kimnotyze" is the lead single of record producer DJ Tomekk's compilation album ''Beat Of Life, Vol 1''. It was released in Switzerland, Austria and Germany only. The song was successful, becoming Lil' Kim's third consecutive Top 10 hit in Germany after her number 5 hit "Lady Marmalade".

In 2002, Lil' Kim recorded a new entrance theme for then World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) Women's Champion Trish Stratus entitled, "Time to Rock 'n Roll", which was used during broadcasts, until Stratus' retirement. The single was released on ''WWE Anthology'', a compilation of entrance theme music to various professional wrestling superstars.

''La Bella Mafia'' (2003)[link]

On March 4, 2003, Kim released her third critically acclaimed album, ''La Bella Mafia''. Highly rated (4.5 mics) by music magazine ''The Source'', ''La Bella Mafia'' spawned the hit "The Jump Off" featuring Mr. Cheeks, which climbed to number 16 on the ''Billboard'' Hot 100. The single "Magic Stick", feat. 50 Cent, hit #2 on the Hot 100 without a video ever being shot.

''La Bella Mafia'' debuted at #5 on the ''Billboard'' 200. Kim was nominated for five Source Awards and won two ("Female Hip-Hop Artist of the Year", and "Female Single of the Year"). This album also got two Grammy Award nominations: Best Female Rap Solo Performance ("Came Back For You") and Best Rap Collaboration ("Magic Stick"). She was also nominated for Best Pop Collaboration with singer Christina Aguilera for the song "Can't Hold Us Down", from Aguilera's album ''Stripped''.

Greg Thomas, an English professor at Syracuse University, began teaching "Hip-Hop Eshu: Queen B@#$H Lyricism 101". Kim herself was a guest speaker at the school. Professor Thomas considered Kim's lyrics "the art with the most profound sexual politics I've ever seen anywhere." David Horowitz criticized the course as "academic degeneracy and decline". Lil' Kim also made an appearance on the multi-platform videogame ''Def Jam: Fight for NY.'' Kim provided voice-overs for her part in the storyline, where the player may fight an opponent to have Lil' Kim as his girlfriend.

''The Naked Truth'' (2005-2008)[link]

Kim released a fourth album, ''The Naked Truth,'' on September 27, 2005, while serving a federal prison sentence (see below). It earned her a 5 mic rating from ''The Source'', making her the only female rapper to ever receive a 5 mic rating. The album debuted at #6 on the ''Billboard'' 200 charts, giving Kim her Third Top 10 debut on the charts. ''The Naked Truth'' did not sell as well as her previous works, selling less than 400,000 copies. Kim has said that her prison sentence left her with no time to promote the project. There have been many rumors about a re-release of ''Truth'' but to no avail.The music video for ''The Naked Truth'''s first single, "Lighters Up" was number one on BET's ''106 & Park'' for two weeks. "Lighters Up", was a Top Ten hit on the ''Billboard'' Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Singles & Tracks chart. The single also reached #67 on the German Single Chart, #12 on the UK Top 75 and #4 on the Finland Single Chart. The second single, "Whoa" was released on February 17, 2006. It reached No. 22 on Airplay. ''The Dance Remixes'' extended play was also released in 2005. Kim also made appearances on the show Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search For The Next Doll and Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious in 2007 and 2008. ''Ms. G.O.A.T.'', an acronym for "''Greatest Of All Time''", is the debut mixtape by Lil' Kim. It was officially released on June 3, 2008 and was produced by Mister Cee and DJ Whoo Kid, DJ's from New York City. Among critics, the album has received generally positive reviews. It has been called a representation of Lil' Kim's return to the streets. Tito Salinas of ''All Hip Hop'' says "Lil’ Kim shows that her time behind bars did not rust all of her swag away" on ''Ms. G.O.A.T.'' On the other hand, Ehren Gresehover of ''New York Mag'' says that although one of the tracks "The Miseducation of Lil' Kim" is not bad, he wished that it was Lauryn Hill who was making a comeback instead.

''5th Studio Album'' (2011-present)[link]

On March 10, 2009, the song "Girls" by the Korean singer, Seven featuring Lil' Kim was released through digital stores for his U.S. debut single. Kim appeared in the music video that was released on the same day. "Girls" was produced by Darkchild. On March 24, 2009, Kim released the song "Download" featuring R&B; singers T-Pain and Charlie Wilson. It was written by Lil Kim and T-Pain and produced by Trackmasters. The song samples "Computer Love" by Zapp. Peaking at #21 on the Billboard Hot R&B;/Hip-Hop Songs chart. It eventually made it to the top 10 US Urban Radio airplay and the top 30 UK Single Charts at #22. In December 2010, Kim filmed music videos for the second and third singles from her fifth studio album releasing in 2011.

Kim confirmed in January, 2011 that she would be releasing her next album which is currently untitled in 2012. Kim is working with producer Dr. Dre and 50 Cent on her album. Kim is expected to make a guest appearance on a track from 50 Cent's upcoming studio album as well as Dr. Dre's 2011 album Detox and Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins' album ''Still Cool''. Kim released a mixtape titled Black Friday on February 14, 2011. In a recent radio interview at 99 Jamz, Kim stated that her upcoming book, "The Price of Loyalty", is on hold to coincide with the release of her fifth studio album, to be release in the next coming months. It was announced by Kim that the upcoming and lead single to her next studio album, is titled "Looks Like Money", and is produced by Rockwilder. On June 19, Kim preformed along side G-Unit member Shawty Lo and hinted a possible working relationship with G-Unit Records. Kim is also featured along with Rick Ross on a track titled "Anything (To Find You)", by R&B; singer Monica, off her upcoming album "New Life", but her verse was removed due to contractual issues. On November 28, 2011 Lil' Kim released a new buzz single called "I Am Not the One" which is available on iTunes. Kim has announced that she will be releasing an EP.

On Valentine's Day, 2012, Kim released the song "If You Love Me" as a gift to her fans. That same month it was announced she would make her return to the stage on BET's 'Rip the Runway.' It marked the her first televised performance in years. In March, 2012, during an interview with MTV's Sucker Free, Kim revealed that contract issues with production duo Trackmasters were the reason behind her album delay, saying "...contractually, by the courts, I could not record any music - I wasn’t supposed to put any music out.” On March 23, 2012, the song "Keys To The City", a collaboration with Young Jeezy, was leaked to the internet.

Other ventures[link]

Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown[link]

On March 9, 2006, BET premiered the show ''Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown,'' which was filmed before Kim headed to prison. The show became the highest rated premiere in BET history, with 1.7 million viewers. In May 2006, Debbie Harry released a Lil' Kim tribute song called "Dirty and Deep" in protest of her conviction. The song is available free from the Deborah Harry Home Page.

Dancing With the Stars[link]

Lil' Kim appeared on the eighth season reality show ''Dancing with the Stars,'' which began airing on March 9, 2009. She was paired with professional dancer Derek Hough until the dance couple was eliminated on May 5, 2009, putting her at fifth place from all thirteen contestants that season. During the second week of the season, judge Len Goodman said that she "''must have a bionic booty''," a nickname that resulted from her performance of the selected dance that evening.

Legal issues[link]

On March 17, 2005, Kim was convicted of three counts of conspiracy and one count of perjury for lying to a Federal grand jury about her and her friends' involvement in a 2001 shooting outside the Hot 97 studios in Manhattan. During the trial of her co-manager, Damion "D-Roc" Butler, and her bodyguard, Suif "Gutta" Jackson, a former member of the hip-hop group Junior M.A.F.I.A, she testified not to have known they were at the scene. However, video footage from a security camera placed all three at the scene, exiting the building. This directly contravened testimony before the grand jury. Butler and Jackson have since pled guilty to gun charges. Jackson was sentenced, in U.S. District Court, to twelve years in federal prison as part of plea bargain in which he admitted to firing at least twenty rounds during the incident. The length of the sentence was said to have been influenced by his previous gun-related convictions. In July 2005, Kim was sentenced to a one year and a day in prison, thirty days home detention upon release from custody, and three years of probation. She served the entirety of her sentence at the Federal Detention Center, Philadelphia in Center City, Philadelphia. She was released on July 3, 2006, after serving approximately 12 months. Kim, Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Register #56198-054, was released from BOP supervision on August 2, 2006.

Discography[link]

''Hard Core'' (1996)

''The Notorious K.I.M.'' (2000)

''La Bella Mafia'' (2003)

''The Naked Truth'' (2005)

TBA (2012)

Filmography[link]

;Films

Year	Film	Role
1997	''Gangstresses''	Herself
1999	''She's All That''	Alex
2000	''Longshot (film)''	Herself
2001	''Zoolander''	Herself
2002	''Juwanna Mann''	Tina Parker
	''Those Who Walk in Darkness''	Soledad
''Gang of Roses''	Chastity
	''Nora's Hair Salon''	Herself
''You Got Served''	Herself
	''Lil' Pimp''	Sweet Chiffon (voice)
''There's a God on the Mic''	Herself
2008	''Superhero Movie''	Xavier's daughter

;Television

''V.I.P. (as freedom fighter) (1999)

''DAG'' (as Gina Marie) (2001)

''Moesha'' (as Diamond) (2001)

''The Parkers'' (as herself) (2001)

''American Dreams as Shirley Ellis (October 12, 2003)

''Lil Kim: Countdown to Lockdown'' (2006)

''The Game'' (as herself) (2007)

''Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll'' (2007)

''Pussycat Dolls Present: Girlicious'' (2008)

''Dancing with the Stars (U.S. season 8)'' (2009)

Awards[link]

Grammy Awards

*1997: Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Ladies Night (Not Tonight remix)" (with Missy Elliott, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Da Brat, and Angie Martinez) (nominated)

*2002: Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "Lady Marmalade" (WINNER)

*2003: Best Female Rap Solo Performance for "Came Back for You" (nominated)

*2003: Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals for "Can't Hold Us Down" (with Christina Aguilera) (nominated)

*2003: Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group for "Magic Stick" (with 50 Cent) (nominated)

*2008: Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Let It Go" (with Keyshia Cole & Missy Elliott) (nominated)

MTV Video Music Awards

*1998: Viewer's Choice for "All About The Benjamins" (with P. Diddy and others)

*2001: Video of the Year for "Lady Marmalade"

*2001: Best Video from a Film for "Lady Marmalade"

My VH1 Awards

*2001: Favorite Video ("Lady Marmalade")

*2001: Is It Hot In Here Or Is It Just My Video? ("Lady Marmalade")

Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards

*1997: Best Video by a Female - Rap/R&B; ("Crush On You")

*1999: Best Video by a Female - Rap/R&B; ("Not Tonight (remix)")

Source Awards

*2003: Female Artist of the Year

*2003: Female Single of the Year "The Jumpoff"

Teen Choice Awards

*2001: Choice Song of the Summer ("Lady Marmalade")

MOBO Awards

*2003: Most Stylish Artist of the Year

Radio Music Awards

*2001: Song of the Year Top 40 Pop Radio-"Lady Marmalade"

TMF Awards-Belgium

*2001: Video of The Year-"Lady Marmalade"

TMF Awards-Netherlands

*2001: Video of The Year-"Lady Marmalade"

ALMA Awards

*2002: Outstanding Song- Motion Picture Soundtrack "Lady Marmalade"

ASCAP Music Awards

*2002: Song of the Year-"Lady Marmalade"

MTV Japan Awards

*2002: Best Choreography "Lady Marmalade"

MVPA Video Awards

*2002: Best Styling In A Video-"Lady Marmalade"

VIBE Awards

2005: Album of the Year ''The Naked Truth'' (nominated)

BET Awards

*2006: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

*2008: Best Song "Let It Go" (nominated)

*2010: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

American Music Awards

*2003: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist

*2005: Best Female Hip-Hop Artist (nominated)

References[link]

External links[link]

Category:1974 births Category:Living people Category:American dance musicians Category:American perjurors Category:American rappers Category:Atlantic Records artists Category:Female rappers Category:Grammy Award winners Category:Participants in American reality television series Category:People from Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn Category:Rappers from New York City Category:Pseudonymous rappers

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