Waka Flocka Flame leaves an impression (Updated December 5, 2012)

Waka Flocka Flame undoubtedly holds the most unique stage name for a hip-hop and rap artist active on today's music scene. Born Juaquin Malphurs, he grew up in the Atlanta area and turned to music to release pent-up emotion following the death of his teen brother. Known for songs like "O Let's Do It" and "No Hands," Waka Flocka Flame continues to make a bold impression on the industry.

Malphurs (who takes his stage name from the Muppets character Fozzie Bear's catch phrase, "Waka Waka"), rolled out his street album "Salute Me or shoot Me, Vol 1" in 2008. It rose to No. 7 on the Billboard Rap Songs chart, and helped to establish Waka Flocka Flame in the industry. Certainly his breakthrough song was "O Let's Do It," which was part of the project and peaked at No. 62 on the Billboard Hot 100.

A member of the 1017 Brick Squad with Gucci Mane, OJ Da Juiceman, Wooh Da Kid and others, Malphurs is also known for the company he keeps. On January 19, 2010 he was shot and robbed at a car wash in Atlanta. The bullet went through his arm, punctured his lungs, broke several ribs and landed in his back. At the time, the up-and-coming rapper told several media outlets he felt like the shooter was sent to kill him, but had no idea who the individual was.

Nine months later, he dropped his debut album "Flockaveli" which made an impressive debut at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 200. His single "No Hands" also went to No. 5 on the Billboard Rap Songs chart and peaked at No. 6 on the R&B Songs chart.

Waka Flocka Flame released various mixtapes in 2011, including "Salute Me or Shoot Me 3," "Benjamin Flocka," and "Twin Towers 2." His sophomore LP, "Triple F Life: Fans, Friends and Family" was released on June 12, 2012.