Born in Compton, California, he initially released a series of mixtapes upon being discovered by fellow West Coast rapper JT the Bigga Figga. After releasing his debut independent album "Untold Story" in 2004, he was eventually discovered by Dr. Dre and signed to his Aftermath label. He rose to fame in 2005 with the success of his major-label debut album "The Documentary" and found continued success with the 2006 follow-up "Doctor's Advocate". The Recording Industry Association of America certified "The Documentary" Double Platinum in March 2005.