Ghostface Killah

Born Dennis Coles in the projects of Staten Island, Ghostface Killahs unique lyrics and soulful sound eventually made him one of the most influential and prominent rap icons of his day. He first made a name for himself in the 1990s with the hip hop crew Wu-Tang Clan. After great success with the group, Ghostface was able to break out into a successful solo career, releasing multiple hit records and developing a massive following.

In 1993, Ghostface made his debut on the music scene with Wu-Tang Clans critically acclaimed album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers). It was this project that allowed him to gain respect in the rap world and begin collaborating with other artists. He soon began making guest appearances on albums, and in 1995 he appeared on fellow group member Raekwons solo album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx a move that proved to fortify the platform for his own solo debut.

In 1996, the year Ghostface was diagnosed with diabetes, he released his first solo album,Ironman. Produced by the RZA, the record was exceptionally successful in the underground circuit, as well as in the mainstream, debuting in second place on the pop charts. Work with the Wu-Tang Clan kept Ghostface busy, but didnt prevent him from releasing his second solo album, Supreme Clientele, in 2000. This second record was again loved by both hip hop enthusiasts and mainstream critics alike. The album included his most successful radio hit, "Cherchez La Ghost," and earned a spot on VIBE magazines top 10 albums of all time. The following year Ghostface released Bulletproof Wallets, a record that did not live up to his previous two, but one that initiated a change in the rappers direction.

In 2003 Ghostface signed with Def Jam Records, and in April of the following year he released The Pretty Toney Album, one which contained many different collaborations with artists such as Missy Elliot, Jadakiss and Jacki-O. In 2006 Ghostface put out his fifth album entitled Fishscale. It made a strong debut at number 4 on the US Billboard 200 as well as placing number 2 on the R&B Charts.

Ghostface continues to make music both on his own and with the Wu-Tang Clan. The group released their most recent album, 8 Diagrams, in December 2007. In addition to the music, Ghostface opened GFK Poker, an online poker room, in 2006. He has also collaborated with 4Cast to produce his own action figure.