The Real Names of Rappers

It is a common practice in show business and the music industry to create "stage names" or alternate personas for the sake of entertainment. Artists in these fields pick titles that they think are more interesting than their real names. In the music industry it is especially common amongst rap artists to pick something that sounds more thug or street. The following is a expose on some of the most popular rap artists and what their real names actually are.

50 Cent - Curtis James Jackson III: A rapper hailing from New York, Curtis Jackson started out life on the same paths as most drug dealers, including being shot 9 times. His rise into the world of rap music was helped along by the rapper Eminem who heard his tapes. Since then Curtis has made a career for himself in acting; going by his real name some of the time and has also made a fortune in investments; raking in around $400 million on Vitamin Water.

Akon - Aliaune Thiam: Actually his full name is: Aliaune Damala Bouga Time Puru Nacka Lu Lu Lu Badara Akon Thiam. His rap name is merely one of his "middle" names. Akon hit the rap and R & B scene with his debut album featuring the hits "Locked Up" and the ever so catchy use of chipmunk sounding voices on "Lonely." He has also been a frequent collaborator with pop artist Gwen Stefani.

Busta Rhymes - Trevor Tahiem Smith: Mr. Smith has been a popular force in the rap industry, having busted out with his hit single "Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check." in 1996. The name Busta Rhymes was given to him by Chuck D of Public Enemy and based off of the name of NFL star George "Buster" Rhymes.

Dr. Dre - Andre Romel Young: Andre grew up in Los Angeles and his rap name is derived from the end part of his first name. Considered one of the forefathers of West Coast Gangsta Rap, Dr. Dre went on to create his own label Aftermath and not only produced his own hit albums, but those of many other rappers such as Eminem.