Big Rap Moments of 2012: 2 Chainz Finally Has His Moment

There's a huge lesson to be learned by looking at 2 Chainz's success in 2012. The 36-year-old has been around for some time now -- 1997 to be exact -- and finally got his moment in the spotlight. As one-half of Disturbing tha Peace’s rap duo Playaz Circle, he received recognition for their hit track 'Duffle Bag Boy' in 2007, but he left Ludacris' label to advance his career further. Formerly known as Tity Boi, he switched his moniker to the less offensive 2 Chainz -- a change which led to a tipping point in his career.

Last year, he released his mixtape, 'T.R.U. REALigion,' and garnered enough hype that lead to a momentous 2012, with the debut of his 'Based on a T.R.U. Story' LP. With his No. 1, platinum-selling hit 'No Lie' featuring Drake, and collaborations on several chart-topping hip-hop songs, 2 Chainz's popularity broke through the roof. He also took advantage of shows to spread his name, performing at every stage friendly to hip-hop this year -- Made in America, Rock the Bells, BET Awards and the MTV Video Awards among them. For those who may question his accomplishments, 2 Chainz's rise is well-earned.