How Coolio built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Artis Leon Ivey Jr., known as Coolio, was a prominent American rapper celebrated for his hit single "Gangsta's Paradise" (1995), which earned him a Grammy Award. His music helped broaden hip hop's appeal to a larger audience. Other notable singles include "Fantastic Voyage," "1, 2, 3, 4," and "C U When U Get There." He released nine albums, with his first three, *It Takes a Thief*, *Gangsta's Paradise*, and *My Soul* achieving mainstream success. Coolio initially gained recognition as part of the gangsta rap group WC and the Maad Circle and sold 4.8 million albums in the U.S.
In 1987, Coolio recorded his first single, titled "Whatcha Gonna Do?", marking the beginning of his professional music career.
In 1988, Coolio collaborated with Nu-Skool to record "What Makes You Dance (Force Groove)", expanding his presence in the L.A. rap scene.
In 1991, Coolio joined the rap group WC and the Maad Circle, becoming a co-contributor to their debut album.
In 1994, Coolio released "Fantastic Voyage," one of his most successful singles. Also in 1994, he released his debut album, It Takes a Thief.
In 1994, Coolio signed a recording contract with Tommy Boy Records and released his debut solo album, 'It Takes a Thief'.
In 1995, Coolio released "Gangsta's Paradise" for the film Dangerous Minds, which became a global hit and topped the Billboard Hot 100 for three weeks.
In 1995, Coolio released "Gangsta's Paradise", which became a Grammy Award-winning hit, helping bring hip hop to a wider audience. Also in 1995, he released the album Gangsta's Paradise which was certified two-times Platinum.
In 1996, Coolio appeared on the Red Hot Organization's compilation CD and recorded "Aw, Here It Goes!" for Kenan & Kel.
In 1996, Coolio had another top 40 hit with the song "It's All the Way Live (Now)" from the soundtrack to the movie Eddie, also featured on "Hit 'em High" from Space Jam.
In 1996, Coolio made a guest appearance as himself on Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, showcasing his presence in popular culture.
In 1996, Coolio released the single "1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New)", which was one of his well known hits.
In 1997, Coolio released his third solo album, My Soul, which contained the hit "C U When U Get There" but did not reach the same level of success as his previous albums.
In 1997, Coolio released the single "C U When U Get There", which was part of his success in the music industry.
In 1998, Coolio appeared in an episode of The Nanny, portraying a nerdy character transformed into a rapper, displaying his versatility.
In 2001, Coolio released the album Coolio.com, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In 2001, Coolio voiced Kwanzaa-bot in Futurama, beginning his role in spreading awareness about Kwanzaa through animation.
Coolio appeared in a 2002 episode of Charmed, playing the role of a Lazarus Demon, adding to his acting roles.
In 2003, Coolio released the album El Cool Magnifico, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In 2004, Coolio appeared as a contestant on Comeback – Die große Chance, a German talent show, seeking a career resurgence.
In 2006, Coolio released the album The Return of the Gangsta, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In July 2008, Coolio became a spokesperson for Environmental Justice and Climate Change, educating students about climate change.
In 2008, Coolio created and released the reality television show Coolio's Rules, marking his entry into television production.
In 2008, Coolio hosted the online cooking show Cookin' with Coolio, showcasing his culinary talents.
In 2008, Coolio released the album Steal Hear, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In 2009, Coolio appeared as a housemate on Celebrity Big Brother 6, where he placed 3rd, showcasing his personality on reality TV.
In 2009, Coolio released the album From the Bottom 2 the Top, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In 2010, Coolio appeared on the UK's Ultimate Big Brother, voluntarily leaving after confrontations, highlighting challenges in reality TV.
In January 2012, Coolio participated in Rachael vs. Guy: Celebrity Cook-Off, representing the Music Saves Lives Organization, showing his culinary skills and charitable involvement.
On June 30, 2013, Coolio appeared on the UK game show Tipping Point: Lucky Stars, where he came in second, showcasing his participation in UK television.
In October 2014, Coolio was featured on the international collaboration track "Fuck the DJ" by UK rapper Blacklisted MC, along with other artists.
In 2014, Coolio guest starred on an episode of the Adult Swim show Black Jesus, further expanding his acting portfolio.
In July 2016, Coolio performed on ABC's Greatest Hits, celebrating his musical legacy.
In 2017, Coolio released the album Long Live the Thief, which did not chart on any Billboard chart.
In 2019, Coolio appeared on the Irish rap group Versatile's track "Escape Wagon", collaborating with international artists.
In 2020, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ivey started working on 'The Evolution of Hip-Hop', a big-budget Las Vegas show.
In 2021, Coolio was featured on Versatile's album, Fuck Versatile, on the track "Coolio Interlude", continuing his collaborations.
In 2022, Moseley and Ivey completed 'The Evolution of Hip-Hop' project. The script, choreography, compositions, outline, and behind the scenes video are to be sent to the Moon in 2026 by Quantum Aerospace and SpaceX, aboard the new SpaceX Starship, as a tribute to Ivey.
In 2023, Coolio's final appearance as Kwanzaa-bot in Futurama aired, with the episode dedicated to him.