For rapper Ludacris (born Chris Bridges), signing on a major label seemed like a piece of cake. However, the young rapper was in the making for a very long. As a matter of fact, he's been on the verge of breaking out since infancy.

Ludacris grew up with old-school music influences that fueled his desire to pursue a career behind the mic. At age 12, he signed up with a Chicago-based outfit called the Loudmouth Hooligans. As a member of this auspiciously named group, Ludicrous honed his rhyming skills and live performances. He took part in every open mic session he could get his hand on.

After having the chance to produce a hip-hop show at a local radio station, Ludacris saved enough money to release an independent album titled "Incognegro" in his label called Disturbing the Peace Entertainment. The single "What's Your Fantasy" caught the eye of Def Jam South, to which the rapper was signed on by the president, Scarface. "Back For The First Time" saw an early 2000 release with the artist sinking his teeth into success. The album has been certified platinum.

Notable songs include --

Years active: 
   ..00s

Born:
   Sep 11, 1977
      ..in Illinois
         ..in Champaign

Raised:
   ..in Georgia
      ..in Atlanta