The young Chris always had a passion for rap music. When he was just nine-years-old, Ludacris, who had yet to adopt his stage name, tried his vocal chords out and began practicing what would ultimately become his finely tuned skill and what would also lead to a highly successful and lucrative career in the evolving music industry. After completing school, Ludacris focused on composing and recording songs. His tunes could be heard on local radio stations around Atlanta, Georgia, which is precisely how big-name producer and rapper Timbaland caught wind of the young star. Ludacris ultimately appeared on Timbaland's 1998 album Tim's Bio, Life from da Bassment.Ludacris' first major label debut, called Back for the First Time reached stores in November 2000. The album reached a high mark of number four on the charts and ultimately became a major success. Fans will fondly remember the ballads "Southern Hospitality" and "What's Your Fantasy," which both became quintessential Ludacris songs. The emerging rapper dominated the 2000s with follow up albums that included, Word of Mouf, Chicken-n-Beer, The Red Light District and Release Therapy. Some of his other singles included, "Rollout (My Business)," "Stand Up," "Blow it Out" and "Money Maker." Ludacris, who most certainly made his mark in the music world, has also appeared in many films. Some of the more well known flicks include 2 Fast 2 Furious, Crash and Hustle and Flow.Now considered one of the brightest stars in the rap music world, Ludacris has been honored with several nominations for his music as well as several wins. In 2006, he won the Grammy Awards for Best Rap Solo Performance for "Number One Spot" and for Best Rap Song for "Money Maker." Up and coming for this prominent rap musician is his album titled Theater of the Mind, which is due out in 2008.