Rick Ross

Rick Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II on January 28, 1976, is an influential American rapper, songwriter, and entrepreneur. Known for his distinctive baritone voice and cinematic lyrical themes, Ross has become a central figure in modern hip-hop. He adopted his stage name as a nod to the historical figure "Freeway" Ricky Ross and eventually established his own empire through his record label, Maybach Music Group (MMG).

Born in Coahoma County, Mississippi, and raised in Carol City, Florida, Ross grew up in the Miami area. After graduating from Carol City Senior High School, he attended Albany State University, a historically black college in Georgia, on a football scholarship. His interest in music eventually led him to the industry, where he initially signed with Suave House Records, the former home of 8Ball & MJG.