The Game

The Game, the heavily hyped emcee representing Compton debuted with a bang, kicking off 2005 with his first major label album The Documentary. His success is practically guaranteed, thanks to a strong allegiance with Dr. Dre (who signed him to Aftermath and produced several tracks), and profitable partnerships with Eminem, 50 Cent and G Unit. A self-proclaimed member of the Bloods, his rap career started in 2003 after getting shot and left for dead in a drug-related robbery at his home. Recovering from his wounds, he listened to dozens of classic hip-hop albums and decided to become a rapper. He recorded an independent album called Untold Story with Bay Area fixture JT The Bigga Figga, which was released shortly before How We Do. Lyrically he keeps it strictly gangsta, for the most part, avoiding thug-love balladry in favor of straight street anthems. Though some rumors have questioned his criminal credibility and a few emcees have already targeted him with dis tracks, the Game shakes off any haters, poised to become one of the biggest crossover rap stars since 50 Cent and Kanye West.