Tyga is a Southern California rapper known for self-assured delivery, mainstream crossover appeal, and a run of hits that helped make him a long-running name in hip-hop. He built his career from self-funded mixtapes into major-label success, balancing club records with broader pop visibility. His ability to move between solo hits and high-profile collaborations has kept him relevant across multiple eras.

Born Michael Ray Stevenson in Compton and raised in South Central Los Angeles before later moving to Gardena, Tyga began rapping in the early 2000s and developed his style through mixtapes. Early momentum from independent releases and breakout collaborations helped launch him into wider commercial success.