The rapper and actor, widely recognized for his role as OG 2 Tone in the 2015 hit film Straight Outta Compton, has made a name for himself both on screen and in the music industry. He’s toured across the U.S. and around the world, building a solid reputation as a hip-hop recording artist. But before fame found him, life looked very different. Growing up in Compton, California, he was deeply involved with the Crenshaw Mafia Bloods, a well-known gang in the area. Within that larger group, he was aligned with a smaller faction called the Piru Street Family. His early years were shaped by the streets, but also by family—being raised by his parents, Linda and Joe, who brought up eight children in total. He was the youngest of them all. Over time, he managed to channel his experiences into his art, and now, as a public figure, he often reflects on where he came from. His journey—from the rough neighborhoods of Compton to the big screen and global stages—shows just how far determination can take someone. And today, as fans follow his career, they’re reminded that his story is rooted in resilience, identity, and transformation.
So, after he linked up with The Game back in 2002, things really started to shift for him—he became part of the Black Wall Street rap crew, which was a major turning point. And you know, over the years, he kept building momentum. Then, in 2010 and again in 2012, he dropped parts 1 and 2 of his Menace II Society mixtape series, which definitely helped solidify his presence in the scene. He really put in that work, staying consistent and showing growth each time he released something new.