Born Artis Leon Ivey Jr., Coolio was best known for his 1995 single "Gangsta's Paradise," from an album of the same name.
Coolio, the famous rapper of the 1990s, may have lost fame in the new century, but he will always remain a key actor in the long, enduring story of hip hop.
Coolio wa an enduring star of gangsta rap. His high-spirited music videos brought him many fans.