E-40

Background

E-40 was born Earl Tywone Stevens in Vallejo, California, U.S. The names of his parents are not known. However, his mother was the primary caregiver. A divorced and single woman, she worked multiple jobs to provide for the family. Stevens also has siblings.

Growing up, he developed an inclination toward hip-hop after listening to the track ‘Rapper’s Delight’ by the trio, The Sugarhill Gang. In fourth grade, Stevens began playing bass drum and the snare. In 1985, he completed his graduate studies at James J. Hogan High in Vallejo. He also played baseball during this time. Additionally, he created music with his siblings as a side gig, selling the records in the back of a car. In 1986, he began attending Grambling State University. However, he dropped out of the institution after a year.

In 1986, he made his debut as a rapper with his rap group. The team consisted of his brother named D-Shot, his sister named Suga T, and Jones. Stevens’ group was called ‘Most Valuable Players.’ After performing locally for some time, the trio released its first single titled ‘The King’s Men.’ In 1990, the group was renamed ‘The Click,’ which eventually became a mainstream hit. Alongside his group venture, Stevens also collaborated and recorded music with rappers in the Bay area. He rose to fame in 2003 when he began hosting the radio show “E-Feezy Radio.” His popularity increased when he began releasing singles and solo albums, starting with “Tell Me When To Go” in 2006.