Bow Wow's Journey: From 'Beware of Dog' to 'Like Mike'

At just 13 years old, Shad Gregory Moss – better known by his stage name Bow Wow – burst onto the rap scene with his debut album 'Beware of Dog' in 2000. At such a young age, it was clear that this talented artist had big plans ahead.

Growing up under the shadow of his famous father, rapper and actor Cee-Lo Green (formerly known as Goodie's own member), Bow Wow learned the ropes early on. He began performing at local talent shows before signing with Def Jam Records in 1998 – just a mere three years shy of his teenage years.

Under the moniker Lil' Bow Wow, he released several mixtapes and eventually landed his first major record deal as an artist under Columbia/Relativity Records in 2000. His debut single 'Bow Wow (That's My Name)' became an instant hit, peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

As his career continued to rise, Bow Wow transitioned from a teenage rap sensation to a full-fledged Hollywood heartthrob with roles in films like 'Like Mike' alongside Crispin Glover. Released just two years after his debut album, this sports comedy cemented Bow Wow's status as one of the industry's most promising young stars.

Despite facing personal challenges and controversies throughout his career – including an arrest for battery in 2013 and a highly publicized beef with fellow rapper Kehlani – Bow Wow remains committed to delivering quality music that resonates with fans across generations.

From 'Beware' to 'Mike': A Look Back at Bow Wow's Early Career

In the early days of his career, Lil' Bow Wow quickly gained popularity thanks in part to his raw talent and edgy rap style. His debut album 'Beware of Dog' introduced listeners to a fresh new voice on the scene – one that would soon become synonymous with hip-hop.

As he transitioned into young adulthood (both personally and professionally), Bow Wow rebranded himself as simply 'Bow Wow', releasing his sophomore effort 'Doggy Bag' in 2001. The album featured hit singles like 'Get Low' featuring Lil' Jon & the Eastside, solidifying his position as one of hip-hop's rising stars.

However, despite maintaining commercial success throughout much of the decade – with hits such as 'Oh My God', Bow Wow faced intense scrutiny from critics and fans alike due to personal issues including substance abuse and altercations in public. This ultimately led him to take a temporary hiatus from music until 2010 when he returned with his sixth studio album 'Bow Wow - Underrated'.

Since then, Bow Wow has continued to release new material while also exploring other creative outlets such as acting roles on TV shows like 'Empire'. He continues to tour and perform live across the world, solidifying his status as a true hip-hop legend.

From child star sensation to established artiste – over two decades into his career – there's no denying that Bow Wow has come a long way since stepping foot onto the rap scene at just 13 years old.

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