Cameron Jibril Thomaz, widely recognized as Wiz Khalifa, was born on September 8, 1987, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He embarked on his musical journey by signing with Rostrum Records, where he released his debut studio album, Show and Prove, in two thousand six. The following year, he entered a brief partnership with Warner Bros. Records, which led to the release of his Eurodance-influenced single, 'Say Yeah,' in two thousand eight. This track marked his first minor hit, gaining traction on urban radio and charting on both the Rhythmic Top 40 and Hot Rap Songs charts.
After parting ways with Warner Bros., Khalifa independently released his second album, Deal or No Deal, in two thousand nine. His career took a significant turn when he signed with Atlantic Records in July two thousand ten. His debut single for the label, 'Black and Yellow,' a tribute to his hometown, soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and earned him two Grammy Award nominations. This success was followed by the singles 'Roll Up' and 'No Sleep,' both of which also reached the top forty, paving the way for his major label debut album, Rolling Papers, released in two thousand eleven. Despite mixed reviews, the album achieved a peak position of number two on the Billboard 200.
Khalifa's fourth album, O.N.I.F.C., released in two thousand twelve, received a similar response, featuring popular singles like 'Work Hard, Play Hard' and 'Remember You,' which included a collaboration with the Weeknd. His fifth album, Blacc Hollywood, released in two thousand fourteen, marked a milestone as it debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, supported by the hit single 'We Dem Boyz.' The following year, his collaboration with Charlie Puth on 'See You Again' for the Furious 7 soundtrack became a monumental success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for twelve non-consecutive weeks and achieving diamond certification by the RIAA.
In addition to his music career, Khalifa has ventured into acting, appearing in television shows such as Dickinson and The Eric Andre Show, and starring in the stoner comedy film Mac & Devin Go to High School alongside Snoop Dogg. He has also lent his voice to animated series like American Dad!, Duncanville, and Big City Greens. In two thousand eight, he founded Taylor Gang Entertainment, a record label that has signed notable artists including Juicy J and Ty Dolla Sign. Known for his affinity for cannabis, Khalifa launched his own cannabis brand, Khalifa Kush, in two thousand sixteen, which expanded to nationwide dispensaries by two thousand twenty-two.