Timbaland

Timbaland, born Timothy Zachary Mosley on March 10, 1972, is an American record producer, rapper, singer, and songwriter. He is widely recognized as one of the most influential figures in late 20th and early 21st century pop and hip hop, noted for his innovative production style, intricate rhythms, and use of unusual sounds and sampling.

Growing up in Norfolk, Virginia, he began his career as part of the hip hop duo Timbaland & Magoo before gaining prominence in the late 1990s through collaborations with Missy Elliott and Aaliyah. His productions helped redefine the sound of contemporary R&B and hip hop, with tracks such as Are You That Somebody? and One in a Million.

Throughout the 2000s he produced for a wide range of artists, including Jay-Z, Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, Rihanna, and Beyoncé. He contributed to Justin Timberlake's Justified, including the hit Cry Me a River, and became known for drum-heavy, festival-friendly beats that bridged urban and pop audiences.

In 2006 he founded Mosley Music Group, a production company and record label. He released the Shock Value album series, including Shock Value (2007) and Shock Value II (2009), with the single The Way I Are from the first installment.

Timbaland has earned multiple Grammy Awards and nominations and is cited as a major influence on modern production. His work helped shape the sound of contemporary hip hop and pop, blending aggressive percussion with melodic hooks and cross-genre collaborations.