Bryan Williams, widely known by his stage name Birdman, is an American rapper, record executive, and producer, born on February 15, 1969, in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is a prominent figure in the hip-hop genre and co-founded the influential label Cash Money Records. Birdman is known for his distinctive Southern rap style and has played a crucial role in shaping the sound of Southern hip-hop. Notable works include hit albums such as "Tha Carter" series, particularly "Tha Carter III" (2008), which features chart-topping singles like "Lollipop" and "A Milli." He has collaborated with numerous artists, including Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj, significantly impacting the careers of many in the industry. Birdman's influence extends beyond his music; he helped popularize the "bling" lifestyle in hip-hop and has been instrumental in the rise of the Cash Money brand as a cultural phenomenon. His entrepreneurial spirit and contributions to the genre have earned him recognition as a pioneer of Southern rap, making him a key figure in the evolution of hip-hop music in the late 1990s and 2000s.