Raised in the Watts section of Los Angeles

Began singing at age 14

Sang the praises of Coca-Cola in a memorable ad campaign

Started modeling at age 17

Guest starred on an episode of "Hangin' With Mr. Cooper" (ABC)

Signed a recording contract with RCA Music Group

Acted in episode of "Martin" (Fox)

Featured in the Monica video "Angel of Mine"

Released debut album "Tyrese"; record went platinum

Appeared on "Sister, Sister" and "The Parent 'Hood" (The WB)

Founded the 2000 Watts Foundation, an organization to build up his hometown

Hosted the daily "MTV Jams Countdown"

Featured in the MTV original film "Love Song"

Cast in the John Singleton drama "Baby Boy"; released the single "I'm Just a Baby Boy" a collaboration with Snoop Dogg to coincide with the film

Replaced Vin Diesel in the action feature sequel "Fast and the Furious 2"

Starred opposite Dennis Quaid in the remake of the 1965 film "The Flight of the Phoenix"

Co-starred in John Singleton's "Four Brothers" as one of four brothers out to avenge his mother's murder

Appeared opposite James Franco in the Disney drama "Annapolis," directed by Justin Lin

Starred in "Waist Deep," as an ex-convict whose car is hijacked with his son inside

Cast in director Michael Bay's live action film "Transformers"

Co-starred in Paul W.S. Anderson's remake of the 1975 film "Death Race"

Re-teamed with director Michael Bay for "Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen"