E-40

Earl Stevens, widely recognized as E-40, was born on November 15, 1967, in Vallejo, California. As a prominent figure in the rap scene, he is not only a celebrated rapper but also a savvy entrepreneur. E-40 gained initial fame as a member of the rap group The Click and established his own label, Sick Wid It Records. His solo career took flight with the release of his debut album, *Federal*, in November 1992, shortly after The Click dropped their first album, *Down and Dirty*, in May of the same year.

E-40's 1995 album, *In a Major Way*, marked a significant turning point that expanded his reach to a broader audience. Over the years, he has produced more than ten albums, including collaborations with The Click and numerous guest appearances on various rap projects. In the late 1990s, he began collaborating with artists beyond the Bay Area, which further propelled his career. A major highlight came in 2006 with the hit single "Tell Me When to Go," produced by Lil Jon, which solidified his status in mainstream hip-hop. E-40's unique style and entrepreneurial spirit continue to influence the music industry today.