MTV’s Behind the Music

This artist became a rapper at the age of 9. Lil Wayne came from a tough childhood before exploring his talent for rapping as a member of the Hot Boys. With growing popularity, he pursued his solo career and released Tha Carter in 2004 and Tha Carter II in 2005. He was ready to take on the mantle of "Best Rapper Alive" and collaborated with artists such as Fall Out Boy and Fat Joe. Lil Wayne found success in 2008 with Tha Carter III, which included hit singles "A Milli" and "Lollipop", earning him 4 Grammys that year. Following Tha Carter III, he released IV and V, along with mixtapes. Even during his prison sentence in 2010, he released the album "I Am Not a Human Being", which debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200. Lil Wayne has sold over 120 million records worldwide and introduced a new generation of rappers, including Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Tyga through his record label, Young Money Entertainment. Over his career Lil Wayne won numerous awards — from the Grammys, BET, Billboard, VMAs, and NAACP — cementing his legacy as one of hip-hop’s greatest. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She is known to be the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul.” Mary J. Blige came from a tough childhood before becoming a singing sensation. Blige found an escape from her life through music and eventually dropped out of school before working with Puff Daddy. Her first album, “What’s the 411?”, was a hit, followed by her second album “My Life”, which explored her emotional struggles. By her fourth album, Blige was finally finding herself and learning to forgive. She realized that it’s never too late to pursue her dreams, and years later came out with her seventh album, “The Breakthrough”, earning her 8 Grammy Awards. Blige continues to earn her legacy, performing for Barack Obama and collaborating across genres with artists like The Roots, U2, Drake and more. In 2022, Blige performed in the Super Bowl and was named as one of TIME’s 100 most influential people in the world. Although she was faced with heartbreak and setbacks, Mary J. Blige continues to define and expand the world of R&B music. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This artist is known for his use of Auto-Tune and pushing the boundaries of music. As a child, T-Pain knew he wanted to leave his hometown of Tallahassee to pursue his musical talents. He eventually discovered Auto-Tune and created a remix of Akon’s “Locked Up”, dubbed “F***ed Up”, which led to Akon recognizing T-Pain’s potential. T-Pain pursued his music career and came out with his first single, “I’m Sprung” which became a #1 hit. Critics thought that T-Pain’s signature Auto-Tune sound was a gimmick, however they were proved wrong when the single “Buy You a Drank” shot to #1. T-Pain marched to his own tune and what felt good to him, a genre he calls “Hard & B”. Now, he’s a star with four Billboard top 10 singles and his own show “T-Pain’s School of Business”. He even proved his natural singing ability by winning The Masked Singer and performing an NPR Tiny Desk Concert. T-Pain continues to represent his genre defining sound and has shaped the direction of pop music, all while building his legacy. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He is a radio DJ turned Hip-Hop superstar. Ludacris built his career in music and acting by writing about his life and rapping on Atlanta radio stations, leading him to become a founding member of record label Disturbing tha Peace. Although he was a radio DJ under the name of Chris Lova Lova, Ludacris was ready to build his own name as a recording artist. One of his first singles, “What’s Your Fantasy”, proved that he had a trademark flow. In 2009, six studio albums later, Ludacris was met with idolization as he collaborated with Justin Bieber on the hit single “Baby”, and proved that everything comes down to the music. Now, Ludacris is a businessman, restaurateur, philanthropist, and he finds success as a Fast and Furious star and founder of the Ludacris Foundation. Through hard work tracing back to his first radio show, Ludacris continues to be a trailblazer who wants to be the best man he can be. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Rocket Man is known for his flamboyant costumes and musical oeuvre. Elton John began his career as a talented pianist in the London suburbs where he created his debut album, “Empty Sky”, which began the course for Elton’s 7 consecutive #1 albums. The rock ‘n roll legend’s rush of superstardom soared in the 70s with money and fame, however he also struggled with burnout, drug use, and personal crises. While navigating tabloids and scandals in the 80s, Elton reached sobriety and supported his loved ones during the AIDS epidemic. With new music and a newfound outlook in the 90s, Elton was inducted into the Rock’ N Roll Hall of Fame, won an Academy Award, and found love with his husband, David Furnish. Now, Elton continues to build his legacy with musical collaborations and another world tour. Although he’s had a great ride in the last 30 years, Elton knows he’ll keep on rockin’. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s one of the biggest stars in the world and a human highlight reel. The story behind Britney Spears’ early career comes from her aspirations too large for her small town. Britney knew she wanted to perform and see the world after her early roles in off-broadway plays and The Mickey Mouse Club, which led to her solo career in music. Her debut album, “...Baby One More Time” became a #1 hit and a global phenomenon. From the debut of her second album to her fourth, Britney was met with iconic moments such as opening for NSYNC, dancing with a python at the VMAs, and collaborating with Madonna. In the later 2000s, Britney continued to captivate the music world with additional hits like “Womanizer” and “Hold It Against Me”. The pop star currently holds 5 albums at #1 along with many accolades. Since recently being liberated from her conservatorship, fans are excited to see what Britney has in store next. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The most successful American Idol winner, Carrie Underwood, went from farm girl to superstar. After winning American Idol’s fourth season in 2005, Carrie performed a 47 state tour that introduced fans to #1 hits like “Jesus Take the Wheel” and “Before He Cheats” off her debut album, Some Hearts. Her talent quickly continued to be recognized as she won two Grammys and an induction to the Opry. At 25, she met her future husband, NHL player Mike Fisher, who became the inspiration for her next album, “Play On”. Carrie has since then released six studio albums and earned a total of 7 Grammys, 12 Billboard Music Awards, and 15 million albums sold. With continued success down the line, Carrie Underwood continues to prove her title of being the most critically acclaimed country artist of all time, all while exploring other ventures such as fashion, fitness, and acting. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the highest selling pop girl groups of all time, TLC, has influenced multiple genres of music that will be felt for generations to come. Tionne “T-Boz'' Watkins, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, and Rozonda “Chilli” Thomas defined girl power and individuality in the 90s. Their third album “Fan Mail'' was an instant smash that led to awards and headlining tours. However, the three women experienced ups and downs during their success from creative differences to health issues. The group eventually conquered these challenges and came together for one final album. Unfortunately, before they finished recording, Lisa passed away unexpectedly. In 2002, TLC made their first appearance without Lisa at the MTV Music Awards and the next year, performed a final time to 60 thousand fans to honor the life of Lisa Lopes. The duo then took a hiatus until 2017 when they crowdfunded their 5th self-titled album, “TLC.” Despite their bumps in the road, TLC managed to reign as the queens of pop, and their influence continues to set trends and open doors for female groups today. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As one of the best selling female rappers of all time, Missy Elliot climbed to the top on her own terms. Growing up as an only child, Missy faced poverty, despair, and abuse. She used music as an outlet to escape and eventually created the group “Fayze” where she signed with Swing Mob. Missy’s music dreams were coming true; in the early 90s she was able to collaborate with Timbaland & Magoo and Raven-Symoné. However, struggles with her body image and creativity resulted in her departure from Fayze. Her next big opportunity came from Aaliyah and Timbaland. The three were inseparable through their unique style of music. Her success continued with the release of “The Things You That You Do” with Gina Thompson and “The Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)”, plus getting signed with her own label, The Goldmind. Now, Missy has created a legacy by producing for big name artists, performing at the Super Bowl, and being inducted to the Songwriters Hall of Fame. As an artist, writer, and producer, Missy Elliot changed the game for women in hip hop by staying true to herself and opening the door for innovation. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

R&B superstar Jennifer Hudson displays natural, raw talent in both music and acting. After her auditions for American Idol in 2004, Jennifer became the local celebrity for Chicago. Her vocal prowess landed her a starring role in the film, “Dreamgirls”, where her performance earned her over 30 awards, including a Golden Globe. But the singer was just getting started — she got signed, found love, and starred in two films, “The Secret Life of Bees” and “Sex and the City,” while recording her first album. However, Jennifer faced tremendous loss in 2008 when her mother, brother, and nephew were murdered. She processed her grief through music, releasing the hit song, “You Pulled Me Through”, which spoke to her emotions and how her family inspired her. Although Jennifer endured dark times, she emerged with strength and resolve through the support of her family and friends. Jennifer continues to see success, from singing for Obama to adding her name to the Hollywood Walk of Fame; there is no doubt that Jennifer has dynamic talent across the board. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A former Mouseketeer turned pop diva, Christina Aguilera has come a long way from The Mickey Mouse Club to living her dream of balancing stardom, motherhood, and love. Although she came from a troubled childhood, Christina took control of her life through music and became the definition of pop perfection with the hit “Genie in a Bottle” in 1999. In the early 2000s, she found herself in the middle of a dramatic public feud with Britney Spears and Eminem. Christina was overworked and faced depression, but channeled it into her album “Stripped” with songs such as “Dirrty”, “Fighter”, and “I’m Okay”. Christina continued to bring her raw emotional side through to her fans with the hit “Beautiful” in 2002. She continued to express herself without limits and motivate female empowerment with the relaunch of her career in the 2010s with the album "Not Myself Tonight". Christina’s career continues to be in her hands, and there are still many chapters for her to write. Watch Behind the Music now on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Originally a choir boy from Long Beach, Snoop turned to gangs, guns, and drug dealing in his teenage years. Amid this lifestyle, Snoop impressed Dr. Dre with his mixtapes, leading him to release the hit albums “Doggystyle” and “Tha Doggfather” under Death Row Records. After being charged for murder in a 1993 gang shooting, Snoop turned his back on the “gangsta” lifestyle and distanced himself from Death Row. Eventually, Snoop released multiple albums under No Limit Records and reunited with Dr. Dre for their hit album “2001”. Snoop showed the world that it's possible to escape the mean streets and make mistakes before finding yourself. Now Snoop Dogg is a cultural icon with 17 studio albums, multiple TV roles, business ventures, and product lines. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hip hop icon Nas is famous for his provocative lyrics and bold voice. He inspired a new generation to keep an open mind and work hard. Nas rose from the unforgiving streets of New York City to create music recounting his own experiences including being raised by a single mother, selling drugs on the streets, and witnessing the effects of gun violence on his family members. Even though Nas faced devastating loss and struggle, he “stuck to his guns” and put his music first. The rapper became a hit and released the influential album “Illmatic” that changed East coast hip hop. With a legendary 30 year career, Nas released his 14th studio album in 2021 and continues to inspire others through constructive music programs and scholarships that encourage creativity in hip hop. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is no wonder how the Spice Girls became a global phenomenon in 4 years. With the combination of saucy looks, infectious tunes, and sassy lyrics, the girl-group charmed their way to international stardom. They redefined the girl-group genre by spreading the idea of girl power through their larger than light personalities. Following the success of their hit single “Wannabe,” their fame went from exhilaration to exhaustion. Tabloid chaos, declining health, and creative differences among each other were all anguishes they faced. After Gerri “Ginger Spice” Halliwell left the group in 1998, the Spice Girls created one last album before each girl went on to pursue their own solo careers. To coincide with the 25th anniversary of the “Spice World” movie, the group has reunited several times to show the world their iconic performances and pave the way for new generations of female artists. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The authenticity of Fat Joe is what helped him shape the hip-hop world in the 90s. Raised in the Bronx, his personality and confidence built a monster image of rising from nothing to triumph. Even when he was surrounded by violence, drugs, and loss, he believed that the darkest moments brought him the most clarity. When faced with financial troubles, the rapper believed in himself and created the triple platinum single, “All The Way Up” with longtime collaborator Remy Ma in 2016. Fat Joe finds himself appreciative of the support from his wife and family as he continues to find success in hip-hop today.For more Fat Joe, watch Behind the Music now streaming on Paramount+.The Behind the Music podcast will be back with new episodes in 2022. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pioneers of the original boy band are back. From the streets of Boston, New Kids On The Block (NKOTB) grew into an international phenomenon with the most dedicated fans in pop and R&B. Although they discovered their audience and won their fans over from the 80s to the 90s, fame eventually took its toll and personal struggles were exposed. Although the group disbanded in 1994, their reunion in 2008 showed that they are better together than ever. The “kids” are now adults celebrating key moments of their lives, insights of their journey, and reflecting on the men they are today. For more NKOTB, watch Behind the Music now streaming on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since his time with the rock band Poison, Bret Michaels has come a long way. Armed with dedication to the rock ‘n roll dream, Michaels experienced the highs and lows of rock ‘n roll success with his bandmates. During the constant high of touring and partying, the frontman battled toxicity, fighting, and substance abuse. Reflecting on the key moments of his life, Michaels also learned perseverance through collaborating with his daughter and hosting his own show, Rock of Love. To learn more about Bret Michaels, watch Behind the Music now streaming on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Duran Duran changed music when they introduced rock music onto the dance floor. As the leaders of the new romantic revolution, they did everything together and swept the 80s off their feet. The group created an innovative aesthetic that went beyond their music, from art to fashion. Fame also brought the band struggles — with alcohol, drugs, and inspiration. As the world evolved into the 90s, Duran Duran wanted to break new ground with the new decade, which brought forth their biggest hit, Ordinary World. 20 years since the airing of their last Behind The Music episode, the Fab Five look back on the past of their success and their struggles, while celebrating what the present holds.  For more Duran Duran, watch Behind the Music now streaming on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This 80s pop-rocker is best known for his vocals on chart-topping songs like "The Power of Love" and "The Heart of Rock and Roll" by the band Huey Lewis and The News. Singer Huey Lewis entertained audiences on stage and on the big screen with cameos in films like Back To The Future, but it wasn't an easy road to stardom. Tragedy struck when Lewis was diagnosed with Meniere's Disease in 2018 that threatened his music career. Learn more about his career and continued battle with hearing loss in this episode of Behind the Music. You'll also hear special interviews with Huey's fans and friends, Jimmy Kimmel and Topher Grace.For more on Huey Lewis, watch Behind the Music now streaming on Paramount+. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Glam-rock powerhouse, Adam Lambert, took pop music by storm with his handsome looks, electrifying stage theatrics and jaw-dropping vocal acrobatics. He has entertained across the stage, television and radio...and shocked the world along the way. Despite his success, Adam faced constant criticism about being too bold, too offensive and too gay. Hear interviews with family, friends, industry experts and musical luminaries including Barry Weiss and "American Idol" Season 8 winner Kris Allen. Listen in as Adam Lambert comes clean about who he really is and the obstacles he has overcome to get where he is today. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guns N' Roses emerged from the thicket of the hair metal jungle on Hollywood's Sunset Strip in the mid-80s and single-handedly reinvented rock and roll with righteous riffs and a real and present element of danger. The band became notorious as members dabbled with drugs, booze and other forms of debauchery. Thanks to arena-ready anthems that enraptured teens and enraged parents, Guns N’ Roses, led by vocalist Axl Rose, quickly rose up in the charts. But, as the band’s music was climbing, their relationship was crumbling. Hear the true story of this band of rock and roll outlaws. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hear the story behind Angus Young's schoolboy uniform and how AC/DC managed to take their raucous act out of Australia to become a worldwide phenomenon. In emotional interviews, the rockers talk about the death of former frontman Bon Scott and how -- in a twist of fate -- their first album without him would be one of the top 10 best selling in history. Despite enduring attacks by critics and censors, being linked to serial killer Richard Ramirez, and personal addictions, AC/DC just keeps on rocking. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Faced with health issues, financial distress, and familial tensions, R&B icon Toni Braxton’s story is a powerful one. Her career began with an impossible choice: stay with the family’s band, The Braxtons, or accept a solo record deal. She went solo and found great success, selling hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of copies of her runaway hit, Unbreak My Heart...that never hit her pockets. Encountering more personal and financial losses, Toni nearly worked herself to death. Despite the roller coaster career journey, managing her diagnosis with lupus and her son’s autism, she pulled through and reclaimed her rightful spot on the charts. Listen in for exclusive interviews to learn how the queen of R&B did it all behind the music. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Her desire to "rule the world" drew the dancer and fledgling musician from Detroit to New York's East Village where Madonna became a fixture on the early '80s punk scene. She turned heads with a sexy ragamuffin look that would eventually spawn a world of wannabes. Always leading the pop zeitgeist, Madonna's music has evolved from dance-pop to earthy R&B to balladry to techno. From club scenester to cultural icon to mother (her most satisfying role yet), Madonna's moves are endlessly fascinating. She talks about the price of fame, the great love of her life, and the one "m" word she never wants to hear again. Hear that and more about Madonna's life behind the music.  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After the death of her husband Kurt Cobain, Courtney Love struggled to cope. She faced brutal attacks from the media and those close to her. Many believed she would self-destruct in an endless cycle of drugs, criticism, and rock and roll,however, Courtney made her way back to the top. Find out how and much more in Part 2 of Courtney Love’s story behind the music. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s one of the most controversial, reviled and riveting rock stars in the world. After a tough upbringing, she turned her rage into a passion: rock and roll. Courtney Love quickly found success and love in the industry, but the fantasy of her star-studded life unraveled after she lost her husband, Kurt Cobain, to suicide. Courtney made a stunning turnaround, taking the music and acting world by storm. But, eventually Courtney’s demons came back to haunt her.  Hear from Courtney Love, her family, friends, and those who know her best about music, love, loss, and motherhood in Part 1 of her story behind the music. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Curtis Jackson III, aka 50 Cent, the road to success wasn’t easy. After losing both his father and his mother, 50 Cent hit the streets to make ends meet. Headed down the wrong road, 50 Cent gave up the hustle and chased a new dream: to become a hip hop star. His bad boy reputation preceded him and in May 2000, nine bullets nearly ended it all. But 50 persevered and came back to the game even stronger. Hear how he turned his anguish into fame and fortune, living by his own notorious words, “Get Rich or Die Trying.” Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He was once a small-town choir boy. Now, Usher is one of modern pop music’s greatest artists. Usher fast tracked his way to fame with an education from one of hip hop’s most notorious producers, and with his charisma, confidence, and distinctive voice, Usher’s career skyrocketed...and so did his love life. Now, go behind the scenes, behind the backlash, and behind the music of the golden boy of R&B.   Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As one of rap music’s most successful artists/producers turned record label founder and executive, Dr. Dre is arguably the best in the game. His outrageous persona helped him build an empire, but when the line between image and reality blurred, people started getting hurt. Despite the controversy, jail time, and multiple assault charges, Dre’s commercial success is unrivalled. Listen in for interviews with Dr. Dre, his family, and rap artists Warren G, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Daz and Kurupt and Jerry Heller (N.W.A. Manager) to learn the true story behind the music. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From founding member of the notorious rap group N.W.A. to blockbuster movie star, Ice Cube has had a legendary career, but his early days were full of tragedy and struggles. Finding refuge in music, Ice Cube and his neighborhood friends formed N.W.A. to speak out about the harsh reality of growing up in Compton. Years and many hits later, Ice Cube defied all odds and embarked on a solo career, becoming a major player in Hollywood as an actor, writer, producer, and family man. Snoop Dogg, DJ Yella, and Ice Cube himself discuss his journey to becoming a modern-day Renaissance man in this episode of Behind the Music.  Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The groundbreaking music documentary series is back. Classic episodes of Behind the Music, now remastered for your ears. Hear the stories of music icons from 50 Cent to AC/DC, Courtney Love to Madonna, and more. New episodes every other week. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.