T.I.

Atlanta-born rapper T.I. (Clifford Harris), dubbed “Jay-Z of the South,” pioneered trap with smooth grit; hits incl. “Whatever You Like.” Grammy-nominated, actor (ATL, Ant-Man); collabs Pharrell, Young Thug, Meek, Yo Gotti, Jeezy.

Greenville, NC Southern rapper Petey Pablo broke out with “Raise Up”; Grammy-nominated Diary of a Sinner. Hit “Freek-a-Leek” (plat). Worked w/ Timbaland, Missy.

Houston, TX hip-hop vet Paul Wall: syrupy DJ Screw-style drawl; Swishahouse/Chamillionaire. Hits “Still Tippin’,” “Grillz”; #1 Billboard LP The Peoples Champ.

Chicago rap trio Do or Die rose with their 1996 hit "Po Pimp." Known for blending smooth and street styles, they've worked with R. Kelly, Kanye West, Twista, and Bun B.

2 Chainz, born Tauheed Epps in College Park, Georgia, is a Grammy-winning Southern hip-hop and trap artist. Known for his distinctive style, clever wordplay, and charismatic persona, he gained fame with hits like "No Lie" and "Birthday Song". His albums include "Based on a T.R.U. Story" and "Pretty Girls Like Trap Music". He has collaborated with numerous artists, including Drake, Kanye West, and Lil Wayne, and is recognized for his engaging touring and "Most Expensivest" series.