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Wiz Khalifa
Wiz Khalifa
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Cameron Jibril Thomaz (born September 8, 1987),[2] known artistically as Wiz Khalifa, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter and actor. Raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he signed with the local independent label Rostrum Records to release his debut studio album, Show and Prove (2006). His contract entered a short-lived joint venture with Warner Bros. Records the following year. His Eurodance-influenced 2008 single, "Say Yeah" received urban radio airplay and entered both the Rhythmic Top 40 and Hot Rap Songs charts, becoming his first minor hit.[3]

Key Information

Thomaz then parted ways with Warner Bros. and independently released his second album, Deal or No Deal (2009). He released two further mixtapes until signing with Atlantic Records in July 2010.[4] He adopted an urban hip-hop-influenced approach for his debut single for the label, "Black and Yellow." A tribute to his hometown of Pittsburgh, the song peaked atop the Billboard Hot 100 and received two Grammy Award nominations. Two of his follow-up singles, "Roll Up" and "No Sleep", peaked within the top 40 of the chart; all three preceded the release of his third album and major label debut, Rolling Papers (2011). Despite mixed critical reception, the album peaked at number two on the Billboard 200.[5]

His fourth album, O.N.I.F.C. (2012) was met with similar critical and commercial response, and supported by the singles "Work Hard, Play Hard" and "Remember You" (featuring the Weeknd). His fifth album, Blacc Hollywood (2014) became his first to debut atop the Billboard 200, and was supported by the lead single "We Dem Boyz." His 2015 single, "See You Again" (featuring Charlie Puth) was released for the soundtrack to the film Furious 7, in tribute to late actor Paul Walker. The song peaked the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 non-consecutive weeks, received diamond (14× platinum) certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), earned three Grammy Award nominations, and yielded Thomaz's furthest commercial success. His sixth album, Rolling Papers 2 (2018) matched its titular predecessor in chart position, and was supported by the sleeper hit single "Something New" (featuring Ty Dolla Sign).[6]

Outside of music, Thomaz has acted on television in Dickinson and The Eric Andre Show, the lead role alongside Snoop Dogg in the 2012 stoner comedy film Mac & Devin Go to High School, and voice roles in the animated series American Dad!, Duncanville, and Big City Greens. Thomaz founded the record label Taylor Gang Entertainment in 2008, through which he has signed artists including Juicy J, Ty Dolla Sign, and Berner. Known for his abundant usage of cannabis, Thomaz launched his own cannabis brand, Khalifa Kush, in 2016, which expanded for release in nationwide dispensaries in 2022.[7]

Early life

[edit]

Cameron Jibril Thomaz was born on September 8, 1987, in Minot, North Dakota, to parents serving in the Air Force.[3][2][8][9] His parents divorced when Khalifa was about three years old. He was a military brat, frequently moving around with his parents' military service. Khalifa lived in Germany, the United Kingdom, and Japan before settling in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with his mother around 1996, where he attended Taylor Allderdice High School.[3][10] Soon after moving to Pittsburgh, Khalifa began to write and perform his own lyrics before he was a teenager.[11]

His stage name is derived from Khalifa, an Arabic word meaning "successor", and wisdom, which was shortened to Wiz when Khalifa was a young boy.[12] Khalifa stated to Spinner.com that the name also came from being called "young Wiz 'cause I was good at everything I did, and my granddad is Muslim, so he gave me that name; he felt like that's what I was doing with my music." He got a tattoo of his stage name on his 17th birthday.[13][14]

By the age of 15, he was regularly recording his music at a local studio called I.D. Labs.[15] Impressed by the young teen's talent, E. Dan, the owner of the studio offered Khalifa an intern job at the studio in exchange for free recording time. Dan, being a veteran of the Pittsburgh hip-hop scene, would help develop and mentor the young artist early on in his career.[16][15]

Career

[edit]

2005–2008: Early mixtapes and Show and Prove

[edit]

Rostrum Records president Benjy Grinberg first heard about Wiz Khalifa in 2004 when the rapper's contribution to a mixtape of various new Pittsburgh artists attracted his interest.[17] When Grinberg finally met the 16-year-old artist, he immediately decided he wanted to work with him, later telling HitQuarters: "Even though he wasn't all the way developed you could just tell that he was a diamond in the rough, and that with some polishing, guidance and backing he could become something special." Khalifa signed to the label shortly after and began a seven-year period of artist development.[17] Khalifa released his first mixtape, Prince of the City: Welcome to Pistolvania, in early 2006. The mixtape paved the way for his first full-length album entitled Show and Prove later that year. Khalifa was declared an "artist to watch" that year in Rolling Stone magazine.[18][19]

In 2007, Khalifa signed to Warner Bros. Records and released two mixtapes through Rostrum Records: Grow Season, hosted by DJ Green Lantern and released on July 4, 2007, and Prince of the City 2, released on November 20, 2007. His debut Warner Bros. single "Say Yeah" reached number 25 on the Billboard Rhythmic Top 40 music chart and number 20 on Billboard's Hot Rap Tracks. The song samples "Better Off Alone" by Alice Deejay. Khalifa's vocals from "Say Yeah" appear near the end of Pittsburgh mashup producer Girl Talk's 2008 album, Feed the Animals, over music from Underworld's "Born Slippy", Usher's "Love in This Club", and the Cure's "In Between Days".[20] Khalifa appeared with The Game, David Banner, and Play-n-Skillz at U92's Summer Jam at the USANA Amphitheatre in West Valley City, Utah on August 2, 2008.[21] Khalifa released the mixtapes Star Power in September 2008, and Flight School in April 2009 on Rostrum Records.

Khalifa parted ways with Warner Bros. Records in July 2009 after numerous delays in releasing his planned debut album for the label, First Flight. Khalifa stated to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that, "I learned a lot during my time there and matured as an artist during the process. I'm happy to be moving on with all of my material and having the chance to be in control of my next moves".[22] Khalifa appeared with Girl Talk, Modey Lemon, Donora, Grand Buffet, and Don Caballero at the Amphitheatre at Station Square in Pittsburgh on July 31, 2009, where he announced that his relationship with Warner Bros. was over.[23]

2009–2010: Deal or No Deal and signing with Atlantic Records

[edit]

Continuing his association with Rostrum Records, Khalifa released the single "Teach U to Fly", and the mixtape How Fly, a collaboration with New Orleans rapper Curren$y, on August 9, 2009.[22] Khalifa introduced a more melodic style on the mixtape, alternating between singing and rapping. He opened for Wu-Tang Clan member U-God at the 2009 CMJ Music Marathon in New York City. Khalifa released the mixtape Burn After Rolling on November 2, 2009, where he raps over familiar beats from other artists, including the songs "If I Were a Boy" and "Diva" by Beyoncé, "Walking on a Dream" by Empire of the Sun, "Luchini AKA This Is It" by Camp Lo, and "Best I Ever Had" by Drake.[24] Khalifa released his second album, Deal or No Deal, on November 24, 2009.[25]

Khalifa performed at Emo's in Austin, Texas in March 2010, as part of the 2010 South by Southwest Music Festival.[26] He appeared on the cover of XXL magazine that same month, for the magazine's annual list of Top 10 Freshman, which included Donnis, J. Cole, Pill, Freddie Gibbs, and Fashawn. Wiz Khalifa was named 2010 "Rookie Of The Year" by "The Source", with alongside Rick Ross, "The Man Of The Year".[27] He toured with rapper Yelawolf on a 20-date tour, the Deal Or No Deal Tour.[28] Khalifa released the free mixtape Kush and Orange Juice for download on April 14, 2010. Due to Khalifa's devoted grassroots fan base, the mixtape became the No. 1 trending topic on Twitter with the hash tag #kushandorangejuice, and "Kush and Orange Juice download" ranked No. 1 on Google's hot search trends.[29]

Citing music industry insiders, New York magazine wrote that Khalifa signed with Atlantic Records in April 2010, although the rapper did not confirm it.[30] He stated to AllHipHop in June 2010 that he was working on a new album, but was weighing his options and had not yet decided on a label to distribute it. Khalifa confirmed to MTV on July 30 that he was signing an Atlantic Records deal.[31]

Wiz Khalifa on stage
Wiz Khalifa on stage in Boston in August 2010

Khalifa was featured in a remix and video for the 2010 Rick Ross single "Super High", alongside Curren$y.[32] He guested on the mixtape Grey Goose, Head Phones, and Thirsty Women by St. Louis rapper M.C.,[33] and was featured on the track "The Breeze (Cool)" on rapper Wale's August 2010 mixtape More About Nothing.[34] Khalifa was named MTV's Hottest Breakthrough MC of 2010, winning with nearly 70,000 votes, and beating out finalists Nicki Minaj, J. Cole, Travis Porter, and Diggy Simmons.[35]

Khalifa appeared at the Soundset 2010 festival in May 2010 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, alongside Method Man & Redman, Del the Funky Homosapien, Hieroglyphics, Atmosphere, Murs, Cage, and others.[36] He performed at the 2010 Rock the Bells festival, along with hip-hop veterans Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dogg, Lauryn Hill, A Tribe Called Quest, Rakim, KRS-One, Jedi Mind Tricks, and Slick Rick.[37] Khalifa declined an invitation to tour with rapper Drake and launched his own Waken Baken Tour, a 50-city national tour with rapper Yelawolf. His official DJ on the tour was DJ Bonics.[38]

The tour, scheduled to last from September to November 2010, sold out every venue. In November 2010, during his "Waken Baken" tour at East Carolina University, Khalifa was arrested for possession and trafficking of marijuana. He was released the next morning after a $300K bail, and resumed his tour. Khalifa performed in a cypher during the 2010 BET Hip-Hop Awards.[citation needed]

2010–2012: Mainstream success, Rolling Papers and O.N.I.F.C.

[edit]
Wiz Khalifa at SXSW in 2010

Khalifa released "Black and Yellow", his first single for Rostrum/Atlantic, produced by Stargate, which has received radio airplay.[39] The single peaked at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100; the title of the song refers to the colors of the city of Pittsburgh.[40] Khalifa released his debut album with Atlantic Records in 2011.[41] He appeared with Curren$y on the track "Scaling the Building" on producer Ski Beatz' 2010 album, 24 Hour Karate School.[42]

On March 29, 2011, Khalifa released his first studio album, Rolling Papers in the US.[43] The album debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 chart, with first-week sales of 197,000 copies in the United States.[44] On March 31, 2011, Khalifa performed at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia as part of the school's annual Dooley's Weekend. On June 26, 2011, Khalifa was nominated and won Best New Artist at the BET Awards of 2011.[45]

Khalifa collaborated with British rapper Tinie Tempah. Tinie announced in an interview with Rolling Stone that his next single was to be called "Till I'm Gone" and would feature Wiz Khalifa and was produced by Stargate.[46] The single and the video song were released at the end of June 2011.[47]

On April 11, 2012, Khalifa announced that he would release his second studio album titled Only Nigga In First Class but that it would be abbreviated as O.N.I.F.C. for release to mainstream markets.[19][48][49] O.N.I.F.C. debuted at number two with 131,000 in first week sales.[50] The album spawned two singles "Work Hard, Play Hard" and "Remember You" both receiving good commercial acclaim and the former going platinum. Wiz spoke with rapper 50 Cent, with whom he collaborated on the song "Telescope", about making a movie together.[51] Also in 2012, Maroon 5 released their single "Payphone" featuring Khalifa, the lead single to their album Overexposed.[52]

2013–present: Blacc Hollywood, "See You Again" and Rolling Papers 2

[edit]

In April 2013, Khalifa revealed that after having his son he decided to work on a new album that he was planning to release in 2013.[53] On April 17, 2013, Wiz Khalifa and Curren$y announced that they would drop their collaboration EP Live in Concert on April 20, 2013. The EP featured seven new songs.[54] On June 24, 2013, he announced that his fifth studio album would be titled Blacc Hollywood and would be released in 2013.[55] On September 3, 2013, Khalifa revealed he had recorded songs with Miley Cyrus and Juicy J for Blacc Hollywood.[56] In October 2013, Mannie Fresh confirmed that he provided production for the album.[57]

On February 11, 2014, Khalifa released Blacc Hollywood's first single titled "We Dem Boyz". On March 31, 2015, Wiz Khalifa released an EP with fellow Taylor Gang artist Ty Dolla $ign, Talk About It in the Morning.[58] That same month, Khalifa and Charlie Puth released the song "See You Again", a tribute to Paul Walker, who died during filming for Furious 7.[6]

Khalifa performing in Toronto, July 2016

After releasing several "Weedmixes" on SoundCloud, including "Ziplocc"[59] and "Maan!",[60] Wiz took to Twitter to create hype about his new mixtape, 28 Grams, which was due to be released on May 25, 2014. However, Wiz was arrested in El Paso, Texas for marijuana possession the day before, and there were fears that the mixtape would be pushed back. After posting a "jail selfie" and hashtagging "FreeTrapWiz" on Twitter, he was released hours later, meaning the mixtape would go ahead with its intended release date.

On January 23, 2015, Khalifa was featured on a remix release of the Fall Out Boy song "Uma Thurman". On May 18, they performed the song together on the 2015 Billboard Music Awards show.[61] In the summer of 2015, he began touring the United States with Fall Out Boy and Hoodie Allen in a tour titled "The Boys of Zummer Tour".[62][63][64][65] The tour featured performances of "Uma Thurman" by Fall Out Boy and Khalifa. Later that year, on December 15, 2015, Wiz released the mixtape "Cabin Fever 3". During the Golden Globes on January 10, 2016, Wiz announced that his next album, titled Khalifa, would be released on the 22nd of that month.[66] However, the album was released on February 5, 2016. On May 24, 2016, he released "Pull Up", a standalone single in promotion of his sixth album, Rolling Papers 2, which was released on July 13, 2018.[67]

In 2016, Khalifa sued former manager Benjy Grinberg and Rostrum Records because of a "360 deal" that he signed which he claimed was unfair.[68] Khalifa is seeking $1 million in compensation as well as punitive damages and attorney fees. He and Grinberg split after 10 years of partnership.[68]

In 2018, he released the song "Hot Now", which created controversy due to the line "smoke got my eyes lookin' Korean", which some found to be racially insensitive. He responded with "chill out, I’m not racist. I love all races... I have Korean friends who are not offended."[69]

On April 20, 2020, Khalifa released a new EP, The Saga of Wiz Khalifa. The album included collaborations with Tyga, Logic, Mustard, and Ty Dolla $ign.[70]

In May 2020, Khalifa featured on a new song, Drums Drums Drums with Travis Barker.[71]

In 2021, Khalifa competed in season five of The Masked Singer as "Chameleon". He finished in third place.

In 2023, Wiz Khalifa released four mixtapes: Star Power, See Ya, Khali Sober, and Decisions.[72]

Personal life

[edit]

Khalifa began dating model Amber Rose in early 2011. They got engaged on March 1, 2012,[73][74] and married on July 8, 2013.[75] They have one son, born in 2013.[76] On September 24, 2014, it was announced that Rose would be filing for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences.[77] As of 2015, Khalifa and Rose have joint custody of their son.[78]

On June 16, 2024, Khalifa announced that he and his girlfriend of five years, Aimee Aguilar, are expecting their first child together, a daughter.[79]

Khalifa is open about his use of cannabis, and he has claimed in many interviews that he spends $10,000 a month on cannabis, and also smokes daily.[80] As of early 2014, Khalifa no longer pays for cannabis and is sponsored by The Cookie Company, a medical marijuana dispensary which sells his "Khalifa Kush" (KK) strain, which he partnered with RiverRock Cannabis to create.[81][82]

Khalifa began training in the martial art Brazilian jiu-jitsu in May 2017 with Rigan Machado, an 8th degree red and black belt.[83][84] Shortly after, he began training in Muay Thai with former UFC bantamweight title contender Cat Zingano and at the Unbreakable Performance Center in Los Angeles.[85][86]

On April 24, 2018, Yokkao hosted a private Muay Thai seminar with Thai boxing legend Saenchai for Khalifa at Unbreakable.[87][88]

In April 2023, it was announced that Khalifa would be taking on his first BJJ match against an unconfirmed opponent under the High Rollerz ruleset.[89]

In July 2024, Khalifa was arrested in Romania for illegal drug possession following an incident where he smoked cannabis onstage during a concert.[90]

Honors

[edit]

Pittsburgh City Council declared 12-12-12 (December 12, 2012) to be Wiz Khalifa Day in the city.[10] Khalifa graduated from Pittsburgh's Taylor Allderdice High School[10] and purchased a home in nearby Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, in January 2012.[91][92]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

Tours

[edit]

Filmography

[edit]
Film
Year Title Role Notes
2012 Gangs of Roses 2: Next Generation Timmy
Mac & Devin Go to High School Devin
2017 Demi Lovato: Simply Complicated Himself Documentary film
2018 The After Party Himself Netflix film
2023 Spinning Gold George Clinton
TBA Moses the Black 2wo-3ree Post-production[95]
Television
Year Title Role Notes
2012 Master of the Mix Special Guest Star; episode: Final Challenge
Punk'd Season 9, episode 12
This Is How I Made It Season 1, episode 9
Ridiculousness Season 2, episode 11
2014 The Eric Andre Show Himself Episode: "Wiz Khalifa; Aubrey Peeples"
2016 American Dad! Mateo (voice) Episode: "Bahama Mama"
2019-2021 Dickinson Death 6 episodes
2020–2022 Duncanville Mr. Mitch (voice) Recurring role
2021 The Masked Singer Chameleon Season 5 contestant
2022 Big City Greens Frilled Lizard (voice) Episode: "Rembo"

Awards and nominations

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia

Cameron Jibril Thomaz (born September 8, 1987), known professionally as Wiz Khalifa, is an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and actor raised in , .
Khalifa gained mainstream recognition with his 2010 single "," which topped the and became an anthem for the .
His debut major-label album, Rolling Papers (2011), debuted at number two on the with first-week sales of 197,000 copies.
Subsequent hits include "" (2012) with and "" (2015) featuring , a tribute to that held the summit for 12 weeks and achieved sextuple platinum certification.
In 2008, he founded the independent record label , which has signed artists like and .
Khalifa's music often incorporates themes of , luxury, and a relaxed lifestyle, contributing to over 33 million equivalent album sales worldwide.
He has received multiple accolades, including and , alongside Grammy nominations for "."

Early life

Upbringing and family background

Cameron Jibril Thomaz, known professionally as Wiz Khalifa, was born on September 8, 1987, in , to parents who served in the United States military. His parents' military careers resulted in a nomadic early childhood marked by frequent relocations across multiple countries and U.S. bases. The family moved to locations including , the , and before his parents divorced when Thomaz was about three years old. This divorce introduced significant family instability, with Thomaz primarily residing with his mother thereafter amid the ongoing demands of life. The constant transitions, driven by parental assignments, shaped an upbringing characterized by adaptability to diverse environments but limited rootedness.

Move to Pittsburgh and early musical influences

Khalifa relocated to , , in 1996 to live with his mother following frequent moves tied to his parents' military assignments abroad, including time in Germany, the , and . thereafter served as his primary cultural foundation and adopted hometown, shaping his identity and artistic development even after later residences elsewhere. He enrolled at in the city's neighborhood, where he completed his . In Pittsburgh's hip-hop environment, Khalifa drew early musical influences from the East Coast rap style prevalent in the late and early , alongside local artists and melodic acts such as , whose fast-paced flows and harmonious delivery impacted his rhythmic approach. He also absorbed soul and R&B elements from his parents' preferences, including artists like and Otis Redding, blending these with rap to form an initial eclectic sound. As a teenager, Khalifa started freestyling rhymes and producing rudimentary demos in local studios, honing his skills through informal practice amid Pittsburgh's underground scene. He selected the stage name "Wiz Khalifa" during this period, combining "Wiz"—a shortening of "wisdom" from his childhood nickname—with "Khalifa," an Arabic term for "successor" drawn from his Muslim grandfather's naming influence and family heritage.

Career

2005–2008: Independent mixtapes and Show and Prove

In 2005, Khalifa signed with the Pittsburgh-based independent label , marking the start of his professional recording career. That same year, he independently released his debut , Prince of the City: Welcome to Pistolvania, a 20-track project hosted by DJ Bonics that showcased his emerging rap skills and local references. The circulated primarily through underground channels, gaining initial traction among regional hip-hop enthusiasts without broader distribution or sales figures exceeding local demand. Khalifa followed with his debut studio album on September 5, 2006, distributed via . Recorded between 2005 and 2006 with production largely from I.D. Labs, the 17-track release featured guest appearances from local artists and emphasized introspective lyrics over his roots. It earned acclaim in underground circles, with Okayplayer.com calling it "arguably the best album of the year" for its cohesive sound and Khalifa's confident delivery. Despite no major national promotion, the project solidified his reputation in Pittsburgh's hip-hop scene, fostering a dedicated local following through live performances and word-of-mouth. Throughout 2005–2008, Khalifa's output included follow-up mixtapes like Prince of the City 2 in November 2007, maintaining an independent approach focused on digital and physical releases. His early style blended relaxed, melodic flows with recurring motifs of use and celebratory party vibes, drawing from East Coast and Southern influences while prioritizing authentic, street-level appeal over commercial polish. These efforts yielded modest sales confined to the area but cultivated a fanbase essential for his subsequent growth.

2009–2010: Deal or No Deal and major label signing

Following the termination of his brief recording contract with Warner Bros. Records, which had stalled promotion of his debut album Show and Prove, Wiz Khalifa independently released his second studio album, Deal or No Deal, on November 24, 2009, via Rostrum Records. The project, distributed through iHipHop Distribution, featured 15 tracks including "Bout Ya'll" and a collaboration with Curren$y on "Friendly," showcasing Khalifa's laid-back flow and themes of ambition and street life. While not a commercial blockbuster, the album contributed to his growing underground following and reached the top of iTunes hip hop charts upon release. In early 2010, building on this momentum, Khalifa dropped the free mixtape on April 14, which amplified his viral presence through tracks emphasizing his Taylor Gang lifestyle and gained traction on platforms like and early . This release solidified his independent buzz, prompting major label interest despite his prior Warner experience. His earlier single "Say Yeah," released in 2008, had already hinted at broader appeal by peaking at number 11 on the Bubbling Under Hot 100 and entering the chart. On July 30, 2010, Khalifa signed a deal with , partnering with his longstanding label to retain creative control while accessing major distribution and marketing resources. This agreement marked a pivotal shift from pure independence to mainstream infrastructure, fueled by the organic growth from and , without fully severing ties to Rostrum. The signing positioned him for national exposure, though he navigated the transition cautiously given past label disappointments.

2010–2012: Rolling Papers breakthrough and mainstream hits

In September 2010, Wiz Khalifa released "Black and Yellow" as the lead single from his upcoming major-label debut album, which quickly became an anthem for the Pittsburgh Steelers during their 2010 NFL playoff run. The track, produced by Stargate, topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart on February 10, 2011, marking Khalifa's first number-one single. Its success propelled Khalifa into mainstream visibility, blending his laid-back Pittsburgh pride with accessible hip-hop hooks. Khalifa's debut studio album Rolling Papers followed on March 29, 2011, via Atlantic and , debuting at number two on the with 197,000 copies sold in its first week. Follow-up singles "Roll Up" and "No Sleep" continued the momentum, peaking at number 13 and number six on the Hot 100, respectively. Collaborations, including with on tracks like the of "," amplified Khalifa's stoner rap persona and crossover appeal during this era. Building on this foundation, Khalifa released his second major album O.N.I.F.C. on December 4, 2012, which sustained commercial traction with lead single "Work Hard, Play Hard" issued on April 23, 2012. The period marked a shift from independent mixtapes to widespread radio play and sales exceeding expectations for a newcomer, establishing Khalifa's viability in the mainstream hip-hop landscape.

2013–2015: Blacc Hollywood, See You Again, and global fame

Khalifa released his second studio album, , on August 19, 2014, through and . The project debuted at number one on the chart, moving 90,000 album-equivalent units in its first week and marking his first chart-topping release. It later received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Rap Album. The album's lead single, "," issued in February 2014, peaked at number 43 on the and achieved viral spread through parodies and on , amplifying its cultural reach ahead of the full album rollout. During this era, headlined the Under the Influence of Music Tour, including a 2013 co-headlining run with AAPRockyacrossNorthAmericanvenuesanda2014editionfeaturing[Jeezy](/page/Jeezy),TyDollaAP Rocky across North American venues and a 2014 edition featuring [Jeezy](/page/Jeezy), Ty Dolla ign, [Rich Homie Quan](/page/Rich_Homiem Quan), and others, sustaining momentum from his prior mainstream breakthrough. In March 2015, Khalifa collaborated with Charlie Puth on "See You Again" for the Furious 7 soundtrack, serving as a tribute to the late actor Paul Walker following his death in a 2013 car accident. The track, released on March 10, 2015, topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 non-consecutive weeks, set streaming records on platforms like Spotify where it led in 26 countries, and reached number one on charts in 94 countries worldwide. Its official music video accumulated billions of views on YouTube, briefly becoming the platform's most-viewed ever. The emotional resonance of "See You Again," tied to the blockbuster film's narrative and its pop-leaning production, propelled Khalifa's crossover appeal, broadening his audience from hip-hop core listeners to global pop and mainstream markets and cementing his international stardom.

2016–present: Later albums, tours, and evolving projects

Following the peak commercial success of his 2013–2015 era, Wiz Khalifa shifted toward revisiting earlier stylistic elements while navigating the rise of streaming platforms. In 2016, he released the mixtape , featuring tracks like "" and collaborations with artists such as , emphasizing laid-back production suited for digital consumption. That year, Khalifa co-headlined the High Road Tour with , performing across North American venues from July to August, which drew crowds through a mix of their shared cannabis-themed hits and new material. Khalifa's 2018 album Rolling Papers 2 served as a direct sequel to his 2011 breakthrough, incorporating pop-rap hooks and guest appearances from Swae Lee, Ty Dolla $ign, and Juicy J to evoke the original's mainstream appeal amid evolving hip-hop trends. The project debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 with 80,317 album-equivalent units in its first week, including 14,017 pure sales, reflecting sustained fan loyalty despite industry fragmentation. Reception was mixed, with Pitchfork critiquing its 25-track length as overstuffed and diminishing Wiz's signature ease. Subsequent releases included the 2017 EP Laugh Now, Fly Later and the 2020 compilation The Saga of Wiz Khalifa, maintaining output through shorter formats adapted for streaming algorithms. In April 2025, Khalifa dropped Kush + Orange Juice 2, a 23-track to his 2010 , doubling down on chill, weed-infused vibes with Taylor Gang affiliates, aligning with ongoing cannabis culture normalization and short-form video virality on platforms like and . To sustain live engagement, he launched the Good Vibes Only Tour in summer 2025, featuring and , with dates spanning and a "Smoker's Edition" extension into , emphasizing high-energy sets of classics like "" alongside newer cuts. This period highlights Khalifa's pivot to frequent touring and digital-friendly projects, ensuring relevance in a post- era dominated by playlists and clips rather than traditional sales peaks.

Business ventures

Khalifa Kush cannabis brand

Khalifa Kush (KK) is a brand developed by Wiz Khalifa, with its signature bred specifically for his preferences in the early using premium . The product line was first commercialized in the U.S. in 2015, focusing on high-potency hybrids like the indica-dominant Khalifa Kush, characterized by a profile featuring , sharp OG fuel, and gassy notes, alongside balanced relaxing and euphoric effects suitable for experienced users. In January 2022, KK launched exclusively in California's legal market through a partnership with , the company associated with Berner and the Cookie Family, emphasizing small-batch, indoor cultivation at top-shelf prices rather than . This collaboration extended availability to Cookies dispensaries, prioritizing strain integrity and potency, with THC levels often exceeding 20%. The brand has since expanded to additional U.S. states including , maintaining a focus on quality-controlled genetics and limited releases to preserve exclusivity. In August 2024, KK announced its European entry via a multi-year partnership with Berlin-based Sanity Group, targeting the German market with strains like KK and Mints starting in early 2025. Khalifa has cited his personal expenditure—over $10,000 monthly since at least 2010—as influencing the brand's premium positioning.

Other investments and entrepreneurial activities

Khalifa has pursued investments as part of his diversification strategy, including a Pittsburgh-area mansion purchased in 2012 for $900,000. The 4,400-square-foot property on 2.8 acres in , featuring five bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and luxury amenities, was listed for $1.295 million in October 2024 before selling in March 2025 for $945,500. In apparel, Khalifa co-launched the Bash clothing line in 2016 with Junk Food Clothing, named after and inspired by his son Sebastian Taylor Thomaz. The collection emphasizes casual, father-son matching styles, expanding his brand into lifestyle fashion beyond music merchandise. Khalifa co-founded in 2008, an independent company handling music , production, and ventures, which has supported his entrepreneurial shift toward media diversification. These activities, alongside endorsements and brand partnerships, contribute to Khalifa's estimated of $70–80 million as of 2025, underscoring self-directed financial growth independent of primary revenue streams.

Other artistic endeavors

Acting and film appearances

Khalifa debuted as an in the 2012 Mac & Devin Go to High School, directed by Dylan C. Brown and released on July 3, 2012, where he starred as Devin Overstreet, a high-achieving senior aiding Snoop Dogg's character, a repeat student, in graduating amid cannabis-themed antics. The project, tying into their collaborative of the same name, marked his first narrative screen role but drew criticism for its formulaic stoner trope execution. He followed with supporting and voice roles across television and film, including portraying musician George Clinton in the 2023 biographical drama , which chronicles the rise of . In animated series, Khalifa voiced Mr. Mitch in Duncanville (2019–2022) and a character in (2018–present). Guest appearances extended to live-action shows such as Dickinson (2019–2021), where he featured in an episode, and improv comedy programs like , contributing to sketches across multiple seasons. Khalifa's filmography encompasses around 20 acting credits as of 2023, predominantly minor or voice parts rather than sustained dramatic commitments, reflecting his primary focus on music production and performance over expansive endeavors. These roles often leverage his celebrity status for comedic or ensemble contexts, with limited pursuit of method-intensive characters.

Notable collaborations and non-album work

Khalifa's on Maroon 5's "Payphone," released on April 16, 2012, as the lead single from the band's Overexposed, exemplified a pop-rap crossover, blending Khalifa's verse on and resilience with the group's melodic hook, and achieving number one on the for ten weeks. This collaboration highlighted Khalifa's versatility in bridging hip-hop with mainstream pop, facilitated by his rising profile post-Rolling Papers, and underscored interpersonal alliances that expanded his audience beyond rap circles. Within hip-hop, Khalifa maintained ties through the Taylor Gang collective, which he co-founded in 2008, fostering productions and features with affiliates like and ; notable outputs include the track "Taylor Gang" featuring Woods, emphasizing crew loyalty and roots as a strategy for sustained relevance in a competitive industry. The Cabin Fever mixtape series, starting with the February 17, 2011, release featuring and on cuts like "Phone Numbers" and "GangBang," served as non-album vehicles for these dynamics, with subsequent installments (Cabin Fever 2 in 2012 and Cabin Fever 3 in 2015) amplifying group chemistry and weed-centric themes central to Taylor Gang's ethos. Ongoing associations with yielded tracks like "Kush Ups" and reinforced mentorship-like bonds, with 2025 releases such as "Feel The Breeze" and "Ride N Smoke" (featuring Tyga) continuing their shared affinity for laid-back, cannabis-infused rap, though these builds on earlier synergies like the 2011 single "" with . Other features, including "" with and in 2012, demonstrated Khalifa's role in drill-influenced posse cuts, prioritizing relational networks over solo output to navigate hip-hop's ecosystem longevity.

Personal life

Relationships and family

Wiz Khalifa began dating model in early 2011, and the couple welcomed their son, Sebastian Taylor Thomaz, on February 21, 2013. They married on July 8, 2013, in a courthouse ceremony, with plans for a larger later that year. Rose filed for divorce in September 2014, citing , and the marriage was legally dissolved in 2016. Post-divorce, and Rose have prioritized amicable co-parenting of Sebastian, sharing custody and collaborating on milestones such as his elementary school graduation in 2023 and birthday celebrations. has described their dynamic as respectful, attending Sebastian's parent-teacher conferences despite his touring schedule and public lifestyle. Following the divorce, Khalifa dated briefly, including model in 2018, but has not remarried as of 2025. In recent years, he has been in a relationship with influencer Aimee Aguilar, with whom he welcomed a , Kaydence, in 2024 after announcing the pregnancy on . Khalifa has highlighted fatherhood across his blended family as a core priority, integrating Sebastian with his newborn .

Lifestyle, habits, and public persona

Wiz Khalifa has publicly described his as a core element of his daily routine, stating in June 2025 that he smokes approximately 30 joints per day, framing it as a form of mental training that enhances focus, creativity, and even breath control during physical activities. He maintains that this habit integrates seamlessly with his workflow, distinguishing it from mere recreational use by emphasizing its role in sustaining productivity amid a demanding career. Khalifa incorporates regular fitness regimens into his lifestyle, often sharing updates on gym sessions aimed at building muscle mass, such as after travel-induced weight loss in 2017, and follows a high-protein diet including eggs, sausage, oatmeal, chicken, rice, and post-workout shakes to support energy needs. While he has explored plant-based elements like grow-your-own mushroom kits under his personal brand, his overall approach prioritizes caloric surplus for physical gains over strict dietary restrictions. Originally rooted in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Khalifa relocated his primary residence to Los Angeles, purchasing a $4.6 million mansion in Sherman Oaks in the mid-2010s before listing properties in Encino and selling his Pittsburgh-area home for $945,500 in March 2025. This shift reflects a balance between maintaining ties to his blue-collar origins and adapting to industry demands in California. Khalifa cultivates a centered on a "" , drawing from Pittsburgh's industrious heritage while embracing a laid-back demeanor that portrays him as relatable and unpretentious despite commercial success. His underscores in professional pursuits alongside leisure, positioning him as an accessible figure who prioritizes authenticity over ostentation.

Controversies

In May 2014, Wiz Khalifa was arrested at in after authorities discovered a small canister of marijuana during a security checkpoint screening. He faced misdemeanor charges for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, posted $300 , and was released the same day. An was issued in 2014 after he failed to appear in court, but the case resolved in June 2015 when he pleaded guilty to possession of drug paraphernalia, paying a $500 fine and avoiding further jail time. On July 13, 2024, during a at the Beach Please! Festival in Costinești, , Khalifa smoked a onstage, leading to charges of illegal possession of dangerous drugs filed the following day by Romanian authorities. He was not detained and departed the country shortly after, but prosecutors completed their investigation and indicted him on October 15, 2024, for possession of approximately 18 grams of , an offense punishable by fines or up to two years' imprisonment under Romanian law where recreational use remains prohibited. The Court ruled in April 2025, imposing a €700 fine for possession and consumption without incarceration. These incidents, centered on cannabis-related misdemeanors, reflect Khalifa's public embrace of marijuana—tied to his Khalifa Kush brand—but underscore legal vulnerabilities for touring artists in jurisdictions with strict prohibitions, contrasting with varying decriminalization trends. No convictions or extended detentions have resulted from his arrests, which have consistently ended in fines or dismissals.

Public statements, lyrics, and cultural backlash

Wiz Khalifa's lyrics have drawn criticism for glorifying marijuana use and incorporating the N-word, themes perceived by some conservative commentators and institutional stakeholders as promoting irresponsible behavior. In 2012, his scheduled performance at the prompted backlash from alumni, who contended that songs emphasizing drug consumption conflicted with the university's stated values of integrity and respect. Similar objections have arisen in academic settings, where his work is cited as exemplifying hip-hop's frequent association with and explicit vernacular, though such critiques often overlook the genre's broader artistic context of . In July 2018, the line "smoke got my eyes looking Korean" from the track "Hot Now" on his album Rolling Papers 2 sparked accusations of racial insensitivity toward Asians, with detractors labeling it stereotypical and demeaning. Khalifa rejected calls for an apology, asserting he was not racist, maintained Korean friendships, and urged critics to "chill out," framing the lyric as a casual reference to marijuana-induced eye redness rather than malice. Defenders of the expression invoke artistic license in hip-hop, where hyperbolic imagery serves stylistic purposes, though opponents argue it perpetuates ethnic tropes without sufficient cultural nuance. Khalifa's public statements have also provoked backlash across ideological lines. During a July 2018 Breakfast Club interview, he advised straight men to break bananas in half before eating rather than biting them whole, deeming the latter "sus" in public settings, a remark interpreted by some as implying homophobic associations with phallic imagery and fragile masculinity norms. Critics from progressive circles accused him of reinforcing outdated about male sexuality, while he did not issue a formal retraction. In April 2025, on The Joe Budden Podcast, Khalifa expressed belief in a flat , citing extensive personal travel as evidence against a spherical model and questioning narratives, a claim widely mocked online for contradicting empirical geography and ironic given his recent album art depicting a . Associations with controversial figures have compounded scrutiny. In July 2024, Khalifa faced criticism for socializing with boxer days after Garcia's Spaces rant featuring racial slurs against and inflammatory comments about , prompting accusations that Khalifa overlooked the remarks' severity. Later, in a December 2024 interview, Khalifa downplayed the issue, noting Garcia had not directed the N-word at him personally and emphasizing selective confrontation. Broader critiques of his oeuvre highlight repetitive motifs of and as limiting artistic depth, contrasting with defenses prioritizing unfiltered expression over thematic innovation.

Reception and legacy

Commercial success and achievements

Wiz Khalifa's music has sold an estimated 78 million units worldwide, incorporating physical sales, downloads, and streaming equivalents as of 2025. His breakthrough single "Black and Yellow" peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2011, while the album Blacc Hollywood debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 in 2014, selling 90,000 copies in its first week. The single "See You Again" featuring Charlie Puth, released in 2015 as part of the Furious 7 soundtrack, achieved the highest commercial impact, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for 12 non-consecutive weeks and certified 14 times Platinum by the RIAA for 14 million units sold in the United States. Globally, it generated combined sales and track-equivalent streams exceeding 20.9 million units in 2015 alone. Khalifa's catalog has accumulated over 23 billion streams on as of October 2025, driven primarily by "" with more than 2.2 billion plays. Concert tours have contributed significantly to revenue, with co-headlining engagements such as the leg with Fall Out Boy generating multimillion-dollar grosses from sold-out arenas. He has received 26 awards from 104 nominations, including three for Top Rap Artist (2012), Top Streaming Song (2015, for "See You Again"), and Top Rap Song (2015, for "See You Again"). Additional accolades encompass for Best New Artist (2011) and for Best Hip-Hop Video (2011, for "Black and Yellow"). Diversified income streams, including music catalog sales and endorsements, have elevated his to approximately $70–80 million as of 2025.

Critical assessments and cultural impact

Wiz Khalifa's has elicited mixed critical responses, with centered on his melodic delivery and for crafting laid-back party tracks that resonate through their simplicity and feel-good ethos. Reviewers have highlighted how his work prioritizes accessibility, often evoking a carefree vibe suited to casual listening and social settings, as seen in assessments of projects like Fly Times, Vol. 1 where the emphasis on easy-burning appeal outweighs deeper scrutiny. This approach has sustained fan engagement, evidenced by consistent streaming numbers and tour draw, but critics argue it comes at the expense of innovation post his 2010-2011 breakout with "." Conversely, detractors frequently cite superficial lyrics as a core weakness, describing them as repetitive and centered on materialism, casual relationships, and cannabis without substantive exploration or narrative complexity. Albums such as O.N.I.F.C. (2012) drew backlash for shifting toward pop-oriented production that diluted the raw energy of his earlier mixtapes, alienating purists who viewed it as commercial pandering. Similar sentiments persist in evaluations of later releases, where the prioritization of vibe over lyrical rigor is seen as emblematic of broader trends in mainstream rap favoring consistency and marketability. Khalifa's cultural footprint extends to normalizing stoner aesthetics in hip-hop, aligning with U.S. cannabis legalization milestones like Colorado's 2012 recreational rollout and subsequent state expansions. Through initiatives such as branding rolling papers, releasing themed mixtapes, and launching Khalifa Kush in 2016—now expanded to markets like Germany in 2024—he has embedded weed-centric imagery into mainstream discourse, spending reportedly up to $10,000 monthly on consumption to model unapologetic use. His Pittsburgh roots further catalyzed local rap visibility, signing with Rostrum Records in 2007 and elevating the city's scene via national hits that paved paths for artists like Mac Miller, though debates linger on whether his adaptable, vibe-driven formula embodies enduring influence or transient popularity.

References

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