Migos
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
In Atlanta, Georgia, in 2009, three family members, two cousins, and an uncle created Migos. The three members of the band were Kiari "Offset" Cephus, Quavious "Quavo" Marshall, and Kirsnick "Takeoff" Ball. While separately, rappers Offset, Quavo, and Takeoff have appeared in numerous films and television shows as a band, Migos have stuck to music, endorsements, and business. Each artist has landed his own endorsement deals, but as a group the hip-hop performers have been exceedingly choosy about their affiliations. Since their formation, Migos have received countless music industry awards and nominations. Despite their accomplishments, the members of the band have retained a family focus, remained true to themselves, and continued to be a part of the community in which they grew up. The three members of Migos often donate to charity and participate or support philanthropies together. The family band also each conduct their own philanthropic pursuits. In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back. Scan QR codes to watch their most popular music videos and hear inspiring speeches and words of wisdom. Each book in this series includes the artists' lifetime awards, albums, tours, and collaborations that have led them to where they are today.
Alicia Keys
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Alicia Keys is a talented, award-winning singer and songwriter who was born in 1981 in New York City. From an early age, Keys was interested in music, beginning piano lessons at the age of seven. Later, she went on to study at the Professional Performing Arts School in Manhattan. Following her graduation, Keys signed a recording deal with Clive Davis, the boss of Arista Records. In 1999, Clive Davis left Arista Records and started a new company, J Records, and Keys followed him. At J Records, she was given more creative freedom. From then on, Keys was unstoppable. Today, she is a multiple Grammy Award winner. Aside from her music, Alicia Keys has worked successfully in television and film. She is married to Swizz Beatz, a successful hip-hop producer, and they have two children. Keys enjoys giving back to the community and performs charity work. Her aim is to make the world a better place. She regularly supports over thirty charities operating around the globe. In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back.
DJ Khaled
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
DJ Khaled, born Khaled Mohamed Khaled in New Orleans, Louisiana, on November 26, 1975, spent the first several years of his adult life working as a sales associate in a record shop and hosting his own radio program before launching his career with his first album in 2006. Since that first release, DJ Khaled has worked with some of the biggest names in hip-hop, making a name for himself as an artist and helping to further popularize the art form. DJ Khaled's story, from record store employee to record company producer and mogul, is presented in these pages. Learn how DJ Khaled became a success in the music industry and what drives and motivates him to stay on top! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Post Malone
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Post Malone (Austin Richard Post) works as a musician, a shoe designer, a voice-over artist, and a philanthropist. From his SoundCloud launch to placing 14 songs on the Billboard Top 40 at one time, Post Malone has vaulted himself to success. He started out playing heavy metal in a high-school band but transitioned to hip-hop to go solo. He moved from Grapevine, TX, to Los Angeles, CA, to pursue his music career. Aside from his music, Malone has begun a successful career as an animation voice-over artist. His entrepreneurial spirit contributes to his growing partnerships with various corporations, such as Crocs, to merge his music with lifestyle brands. Malone enjoys giving back to the community and conducts charity work throughout the U.S. He uses his penchant for comedy as a catalyst for fundraising, such as with Seth Rogen's Hilarity for Charity.
In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back. Scan QR codes to watch their most popular music videos and hear inspiring speeches and words of wisdom. Each book in this series includes the artists' lifetime awards, albums, tours and collaborations that have led them to where they are today.
John Legend
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
John Legend (John Roger Stephens) works as a musician, an actor, entrepreneur, model, and philanthropist. Homeschooled until the age of 12, Legend graduated from Springfield North High School at age 16, then matriculated to the University of Pennsylvania, where he earned a bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis on African American literature. Legend worked as a music minister for nine years while building his early music career. Legend's hip-hop career led to him meeting his wife, model Chrissy Teigen, on a video shoot. The couple now have two children. Aside from his studio albums, Legend has begun a successful career as an actor in movies and musical theater. He won an Emmy for his portrayal of Jesus Christ in Jesus Christ Superstar. His wife may have rubbed off on him, since he now models for The Gap, Bailey's Irish Cream, and, with daughter Luna, Pampers. He even wrote a jingle for Pampers, called "Stinky Booty." Legend volunteers with numerous charities, championing issues of social justice and working to break the poverty cycle by providing quality education to children.
In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back. Scan QR codes to watch their most popular music videos and hear inspiring speeches and words of wisdom. Each book in this series includes the artists' lifetime awards, albums, tours and collaborations that have led them to where they are today.
Bruno Mars
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Bruno Mars is an artist who has taken the world by storm, and since he started, he's shown no signs of stopping! While fans all over the world have enjoyed listening to his hit songs and sizzling collaborations, many have no idea of the fascinating life that Mars led on his way to becoming a global sensation. From growing up as a musician and performer in small clubs in Hawaii, to becoming a starving artist and virtually unknown songwriter, to becoming a household name, Mars has enjoyed a journey like no other. This book provides a glimpse into the life, lyrics, and ultimate legacy of Bruno Mars. Along the way, you'll learn more about his family, his passions, and the secrets to his seemingly never-ending success! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Beyonce
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Beyoncé is undeniably one of the most powerful and popular artists in the world. From starting out as a member of Destiny's Child to embarking on her solo career, Beyoncé's journey has kept the world riveted, waiting for what will be next. In this book, you'll learn about her greatest hits in music, how hard she works to make her dreams come true, and how she inspires the world every day. Beyoncé is more than a hip star-she's a legend; a creative genius; an actress; a caring mother, daughter, and wife; and a fashion icon. All of her roles, experiences, and passions will be explored in this book, so dive in to learn and grow along her life's journey. Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Cardi B
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Cardi B was born Belcalis Almanzar on October 11, 1992, to parents of Dominican and Trinidadian descent. Her meteoric rise to the top of the music industry includes becoming the first female rapper since Lauryn Hill to reach number one on Billboard's Hot 100 Chart with her 2017 single Bodak Yellow (Money Moves). She has gone from checking out groceries in a lower Manhattan supermarket to being one of the fastest-charting artists in Billboard's history. Presented in these pages is the story of the former Belcalis Almanzar, whose name "Cardi" comes from a popular drink made near the Caribbean homelands of her parents. You will learn her story and how she rose from a relatively unknown person to an up-and-coming star. Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Pitbull
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Pitbull is an international superstar famous for not only his music but his product endorsements and business ventures as well. He is proud of his Cuban heritage and hometown of Miami. The rapper grew up in the roughest parts of Miami and learned that to make something of nothing required hard work and his signature "never-give-up" attitude. Pitbull has not forgotten the neighborhoods where he grew up and gives back to the people who still live there. Even his nickname is an example of his persistence and determination to overcome the hardships of his early life! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Drake
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
This book explores the secrets behind Drake's transformation from a quiet Jewish kid to a hit TV star to a worldwide musical sensation. You will learn everything you'd like to know about this famous celebrity, including information on his family, his major awards, his commercial endorsements, and much more! You'll also read about the various struggles that Drake faced, both as he grew up and even now, after he has achieved an elite level of fame. Fortunately, the singer who Started from the Bottom has landed on top of the world, and you'll get the inside scoop on all the people he has helped through his stardom and wealth. This book will show you that there is much more to the #YOLO star than meets the eye! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
The Weeknd
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Abel Tesfaye, better known by his stage name "The Weeknd," has rocked the hip-hop world as the only artist in 2017 to earn a multi-Platinum album that also includes four Platinum songs! He's also won seventy awards and completed numerous tours. The Weeknd's journey started with anonymously releasing YouTube videos and critically acclaimed mixtapes before his first album, TRILOGY. Though the Ethiopian-Canadian star started off his career nameless, he soon became a household name. Follow his exciting journey across singing, writing, and producing music in this book. Learn about his discography, his projects outside of music, and how he became the award-winning superstar he is today. You'll be thrilled to read about the way he's set out to preserve and protect Ethiopian culture and how he's committed to giving back to the community. Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Chance the Rapper
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Chance the Rapper, born Chancelor Jonathan Bennett in Chicago, Illinois, might have followed his father into government work and into President Barak Obama's White House if his love for Billie Holiday, jazz, and gospel had not swayed him toward music stardom. In this book, you'll learn more about his beginnings, the biggest highlights in his musical career, the endeavors and projects he is focused on, his television career, and how exactly Chance the Rapper has become such a multifaceted star at such a young age. Follow Chance the Rapper's journey through the clearly laid-out chapters. You'll see moments full of hope, determination, hard work, and a genuine love for both his community and his fans. His story is one you won't want to miss learning about! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Jay-Z
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Born Shawn Corey Carter, Jay Z was the youngest of four children. When he was only eleven years old, his father left the family and they moved to the Marcy Projects, a drug-infested housing project in Brooklyn, New York. Jay Z began rapping and selling CDs from his car to escape that lifestyle. Since starting his own recording company, Jay Z has released thirteen studio albums and has won numerous awards. His success continues in the business world as owner of Rocawear, a clothing line, and Roc Nation, a multifaceted company representing athletes and musicians. His very private marriage to Beyoncé Knowles in 1998 has led to a daughter, Blue Ivy, and twins Rumi and Sir Carter. The Carters say their marriage is successful because they keep the media out of it! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Rihanna
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Born in Barbados, Rihanna knew at a young age that she wanted to become a musician. Overcoming a tough childhood added to her need to succeed and follow her dreams. After being discovered at a chance concert for two New York City music producers, her journey to stardom began. In this book, you'll learn more about her beginnings, her biggest highlights in music, the endeavors and projects she's focused on, her film career, and how exactly she came to be such a multifaceted star at such a young age. Follow Rihanna's journey through the clearly laid out chapters in this book. You'll see moments full of hope, determination, hard work, and genuine love for her community and fans. Her story is one that you won't want to miss! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Travis Scott
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Travis Scott (Jacques Bermon Webster Jr.) works as a rapper, actor, fashion designer, model, producer, songwriter, and philanthropist. He is also the father of one child with his significant other, Kylie Jenner. Scott established himself first in Houston, Texas, then in both the New York City and Los Angeles rap games. He began his career in high school, working in musical groups and building the network that would allow him to sleep on floors and couches rent-free while he worked daily in the recording studio to build professional hip-hop contacts. Aside from his music, Scott has focused on building a career in production and songwriting. He's also breaking into film acting after successfully entering the film soundtrack arena. Scott has partnered with Nike and Jordan Brand to design athletic shoes, and he has designed a fashion line with Helmut Lang. The rapper enjoys giving back to the community and conducts charity work in his home state of Texas as well as throughout the U.S. He focuses on philanthropy that begins and expands after-school programs and on social justice issues like post-prison-release employment availability. In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back. Scan QR codes to watch their most popular music videos and hear inspiring speeches and words of wisdom. Each book in this series includes the artists' lifetime awards, albums, tours and collaborations that have led them to where they are today.
Lil Wayne
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Lil Wayne (Dwayne Michael Carter Jr.) works as a rapper, actor, entrepreneur, model, voiceover artist, philanthropist, and fashion designer. He is also the father of four children. Widely regarded as the best rapper in the world, his successful rap career began when he was signed to a recording contract at age 11. His albums and singles have won him numerous awards and nominations. Aside from his music, Carter has mounted a successful career in acting on the small and big screen. He owns multiple businesses, including a sports agency, a record label, and a fashion line. Carter enjoys giving back to the community and conducts charity work in his home state of Louisiana as well as throughout the U.S. He has built a skate park, re-built a New Orleans park after Hurricane Katrina destroyed it, and funded a multitude of after-school programs for youth.
In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back. Scan QR codes to watch their most popular music videos and hear inspiring speeches and words of wisdom. Each book in this series includes the artists' lifetime awards, albums, tours and collaborations that have led them to where they are today.
Nicki Minaj
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Nicki Minaj is a rapper, actor, businesswoman, model, screenwriter, philanthropist, and fashion icon. Today, she is one of the most successful rap artists in the world and has won many accolades for her award-winning albums, mixtapes, and videos. She has sold more than ninety million singles and albums worldwide, ranking her one of the highest-selling rap artists of all time. Minaj is also known for her highly creative stage costumes, colorful wigs, and characters. Aside from her music, Minaj has had a successful career in acting on the stage and screen. She has also been a judge on the reality show American Idol. Furthermore, she has launched several fragrances that have won awards. Minaj is a great believer in giving back to the community and is involved in several projects in her hometown of Queens, New York. Other charity interests include funding projects in India and an initiative to pay students' tuition fees. In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back.
Pharrell
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Pharrell was an artistic child who always had a fascination with music. Playing drums in the school marching band and being in a gifted program in summer band camp led him to collaborate with best friend Chad Hugo, creating a four-piece band: The Neptunes. Pharrell's meteoric rise to stardom began after a famous record producer discovered him at a high school talent show, and the rest, as they say, is history. In this book, you'll learn about Pharrell's many talents: producer, songwriter, singer, actor, fashion designer, and more. His abilities and successes haven't gone to his head, and to this day, Pharrell remains a caring, humble, and charitable person interested in giving back to his community-and to the world. His fascinating story will bring you Happy reading! Mason Crests editorial team has placed Key Icons to look for throughout the books in this series in an effort to encourage library readers to build knowledge, gain awareness, explore possibilities and expand their viewpoints through our content rich non-fiction books. Key Icons are as follows: Words to Understand are shown at the front of each chapter with definitions. These words are then used in the prose throughout that chapter, and are emboldened, so that the reader is able to reference back to the definitions- building their vocabulary and enhancing their reading comprehension. Sidebars are highlighted graphics with content rich material within that allows readers to build knowledge and broaden their perspectives by weaving together additional information to provide realistic and holistic perspectives. Text Dependent Questions are placed at the end of each chapter. They challenge the reader's comprehension of the chapter they have just read, while sending the reader back to the text for more careful attention to the evidence presented there. Research Projects are provided at the end of each chapter as well and provide readers with suggestions for projects that encourage deeper research and analysis. A Series Glossary of Key Terms is included in the back matter contains terminology used throughout the series. Words found here broaden the readers knowledge and understanding of terms used in this field.
Gucci Mane
Part of the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series
Musician, actor, and businessman Radric Delantic Davis, better known as Gucci Mane, overcame adversity as an at-risk youth in the Atlanta metropolitan area to found trap music and establish one of its earliest record labels. Davis has been labeled as everything from autistic to insane by his family and peers, who did not understand his genius or his ambition. The often-outlandish rapper beat a drug addiction and reformed his life during a lengthy incarceration. The musician now runs his record company and a clothing firm while continuing his prolific recording career. He also prioritizes his marriage and childrearing. He has one son from a prior relationship, while his wife has three children. The blended family live in Atlanta, GA. In the Hip-Hop & R&B: Culture, Music & Storytelling series learn about the personal and professional lives of today's hottest stars in the music industry. Read about their upbringing, families, passions, road to the top, and how each star supports the community by giving back.