William James Adams Jr., known to the world as will.i.am, was born on March 15, 1975. He is a multifaceted American artist, recognized as a rapper, singer, songwriter, record producer, entrepreneur, and actor. As the frontman of the iconic musical group Black Eyed Peas, which he co-founded in 1995 with fellow rappers apl.de.ap and Taboo, will.i.am has played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of contemporary pop and hip-hop.
The Black Eyed Peas achieved remarkable success with their pop rap albums, including Elephunk in two thousand three, Monkey Business in two thousand five, The E.N.D. in two thousand nine, and The Beginning in two thousand ten. During this period, will.i.am shared lead vocals with Fergie, contributing to the group's widespread acclaim and commercial success.
In addition to his work with the Black Eyed Peas, will.i.am has pursued a solo career, signing with Atlantic Records to release his debut album Lost Change in two thousand one. Although his early solo efforts did not chart, he found success with his third album, Songs About Girls, released in two thousand seven, which marked his first entry on the US Billboard 200. His fourth album, #willpower, released in two thousand thirteen, peaked at number nine on the Billboard 200 and featured the hit single 'Scream & Shout' alongside Britney Spears.
Beyond his musical endeavors, will.i.am is a prolific record producer and songwriter, collaborating with a diverse array of artists, including Michael Jackson, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. He has also founded a technology company, i.am+, and has served as a mentor on various reality competition series, including The Voice UK and The Voice Kids. His contributions to music have earned him seven Grammy Awards, a Latin Grammy Award, and a Daytime Emmy Award.