Coming from a broken home, Coolio fought poverty and drug addiction to become one of the most successful rappers of the 1990s. His first two singles, ‘Watch Gonna Do’ and ‘You're Gonna Miss Me,’ did not evoke any enthusiasm from music lovers. His role in the Gangsta rap group WC and the Maad Circle’s debut album was also limited. He decided to go solo and released the album It Takes a Thief. Its single Fantastic Voyage gave him the much-needed breakthrough. The album was refreshing as it replaced dark and violent lyrics heard on typical rap tracks with a humorous and happy outlook. He closely followed his debut album with the song Gangsta's Paradise for the film Dangerous Minds. It found unprecedented success and was an international hit. He released an album of the same name which was certified double platinum, thanks to the two singles, '1, 2, 3, 4 (Sumpin' New)' and 'Too Hot'. Although his third album, My Soul, did well, it could not replicate the success of his previous albums. His subsequent albums were also poorly received. He acted in several films and television series, either playing himself or doing minor roles. He also appeared on numerous cookery shows and contests.