Shad Moss, known professionally as Bow Wow achieved hip-hop stardom at age 13 when he became the youngest artist to gain national attention. Snoop Dogg discovered him and Jermaine Dupri became his mentor before Bow Wow released his debut album Beware of Dog in 2000 which achieved double platinum status with hits "Bounce with Me" and "Bow Wow (That’s My Name)." The early success of his music established him as a teen pop sensation who maintained commercial success.

Bow Wow transitioned from his initial status as a child musical talent to become a leading performer who produced chart-topping hits throughout the following ten years. The success of Doggy Bag (2001) and Unleashed (2003) maintained his popularity but Wanted (2005) established him as a permanent figure in mainstream hip-hop through the platinum hit "Let Me Hold You" featuring Omarion. His smooth delivery and R&B-infused sound became evident through fan-favorite tracks "Like You" with Ciara and "Shortie Like Mine" featuring Chris Brown.