Like many entertainers today, he’s one of the ones who seek to have their hands involved in an array of productions - all the while being successful in the stride of it all. Well, he has the talent, he has the will & know-how; not to mention the overall capability - and from the start, he’s been on a non-stop mission to be more than just some star because… well, he’s NICK CANNON.

Born (October 8, 1980 - San Diego, CA) with a natural love for music, it was inevitable that Cannon journey to great success. His first song was recorded at home on his radio, after what he’s penned, “a lot trial and failure.” When he began perform his music, he also created Da Bomb Squad (consisting of himself, and his best friend Steve Groves); all the while with a stand-up comedy routine intact. He would then travel to Hollywood and gain gigs at “renowned” facilities such as The Improv, The Laugh Factory, and the Comedy Store. At the age of 16, his flair compared to some of today’s favorite comedians Chris Tucker, Damon Wayans, and Chris Rock.

His official establishment as a young star began with various television work (Nickelodeon’s Keenan & Kel, UPN’s The Parkers, and The Nick Cannon Show). The tricks in his hat include rapping, writing, producing, comedy, and of course acting. He landed his first role in Men in Black II (Autopsy Agent), a successful debut and leading role in Drumline (as Devon), following up with his second movie, Love Don’t Cost a Thing (Alvin Johnson). Other roles include Garfield: The Movie (voice of Louis the Mouse), as well as surprisingly being cast in Shall We Dance. We were immediately introduced to Cannon’s aspirations to become a recording artist after he signed to Jive Records in 2001 - releasing his first single; a remake of DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince’s 1988 hit, “Parents Just Don’t Understand” (from the Jimmy Neutron Boy Genius soundtrack). Jive records released his self-titled debut December 9, 2003, which peaked at position #15 on Billboards Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums of 2004. With an album described as a provocative and glossed production, he’s gaining new fans, becoming a house-hold name, and a powerhouse in the entertainment industry.

With production on his own album and Lil’ Romeo’s junior set, Romeoland (2004) well under his belt, he’s currently serving as the executive producer to Underclassman, Miramax Film’s upcoming comedy, action-adventure. Unexpectedly, he’s splashed in last month’s GQ (Cover: Jessica Alba), in a 6 page spread featuring “Five Ways to Sex up Your Style.” Effortlessly alluring, Cannon is known for easily offering his genius. His drive alone and the indefinite light shining on his soon-to-be (if-not-already) mogul status, validates him as the epitome of an entertainer. The innovation, the endurance, and the cannon of Nick, reveres his future accomplishments beyond mention.

© Tionne 2005, All Rights Reserved

Featured at: Melroze Web Magazine (May Issue)