Xzibit is an American rapper, actor, television host, and entertainment personality best known for his influential career in West Coast hip-hop and for hosting the popular MTV reality series Pimp My Ride. Born Alvin Nathaniel Joiner on September 18, 1974, in Detroit, Michigan, Xzibit built a reputation as a powerful lyricist before becoming a familiar face on television and in Hollywood.
Over the years, Xzibit has released several successful hip-hop albums, collaborated with major artists such as Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Ice Cube, and Busta Rhymes, and appeared in movies and television shows. His music career includes albums such as At the Speed of Life, 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz, Restless, Man vs. Machine, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Full Circle, Napalm, and Kingmaker.
Who Is Xzibit?
Xzibit is the professional name of Alvin Nathaniel Joiner, an American rapper and entertainer whose career began in the early 1990s. Although he first gained recognition in underground hip-hop circles, his career eventually expanded into mainstream music, television, film, and radio.
He became particularly famous among television audiences after becoming the host of MTV’s Pimp My Ride in 2004. The program gave him a much wider international audience and established him as more than a recording artist.
As a rapper, Xzibit is associated strongly with West Coast hip-hop. His music is recognized for its energetic delivery, forceful voice, storytelling, and straightforward lyrical style.
Xzibit Early Life and Childhood
Xzibit was born in Detroit, Michigan, on September 18, 1974. His birth name is Alvin Nathaniel Joiner. According to biographical sources, he moved away from Detroit as a child and eventually developed his connection to the Los Angeles hip-hop scene.
His childhood experiences had a significant influence on his personality and artistic development. The loss of his mother when he was young was an especially important event in his early life.
Music and writing became important outlets for him. As he grew older, he became increasingly interested in rap and began developing the skills that would eventually lead to his professional career.
His journey was not an easy one. Xzibit has spoken about difficult experiences during his youth, and those experiences helped shape the direct and sometimes gritty perspective that became part of his music.
Xzibit Education and Early Interests
Xzibit’s early years were marked by frequent changes and challenges. Rather than following a traditional path into entertainment, he developed his interest in music through writing, performing, and involvement in the developing hip-hop culture around him.
His early artistic identity was connected to the West Coast rap community. He initially performed under the name Exhibit A before becoming widely known as Xzibit.
By the early 1990s, he was actively pursuing music and making connections with other artists. These relationships eventually helped him enter the professional hip-hop world.
Xzibit Music Career
Beginning of His Rap Career
Xzibit’s professional music career began in the early 1990s. He became connected with the Likwit Crew, a collective associated with West Coast hip-hop artists including King Tee and Tha Alkaholiks.
Those early connections gave him opportunities to perform and record with established artists. His growing reputation eventually led to a record deal with Loud Records.
At the Speed of Life
Xzibit released his debut studio album, At the Speed of Life, in 1996.
The album helped establish him as a serious West Coast rapper. One of its best-known tracks was “Paparazzi,” a song that became an important early success for Xzibit and helped introduce his music to a broader audience.
The album demonstrated his ability to combine strong production with thoughtful and often socially aware lyrics.
40 Dayz & 40 Nightz
In 1998, Xzibit released his second studio album, 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz.
The project strengthened his reputation among hip-hop listeners and featured the popular single “What U See Is What U Get.” The album received positive critical attention and helped him continue building momentum.
Restless
One of the biggest turning points in Xzibit’s career came with the release of Restless in 2000.
Dr. Dre served as executive producer, helping Xzibit move toward a more commercially successful sound. The album reached No. 12 on the Billboard 200 and became one of the defining releases of Xzibit’s career.
The album included the famous track “X,” which became closely associated with Xzibit’s public image and helped introduce him to an even larger audience.
Man vs. Machine
Xzibit followed Restless with Man vs. Machine in 2002.
The album continued his relationship with Dr. Dre and featured appearances from several prominent hip-hop artists. It became one of his strongest commercial releases, reaching No. 3 on the U.S. Billboard 200.
Weapons of Mass Destruction
In 2004, Xzibit released Weapons of Mass Destruction.
The album continued his established rap style while incorporating a number of high-profile collaborations. It also arrived during the period when his television career was beginning to make him a household name.
Full Circle
Xzibit released Full Circle in 2006.
By this point, his career had expanded considerably beyond music. He was becoming increasingly recognized as a television and film personality, particularly because of Pimp My Ride.
Napalm
After a period away from releasing solo studio albums, Xzibit returned with Napalm in 2012.
The album marked another chapter in his music career and demonstrated that his interest in hip-hop had remained strong despite his growing television and acting commitments.
Kingmaker
Xzibit returned to the spotlight with Kingmaker in 2025, his first solo studio album in more than a decade.
The album features collaborations with major hip-hop figures, including Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Busta Rhymes, B-Real, and Ty Dolla $ign. Xzibit’s official biography describes the project as a reflection of his experience, personal growth, and long career in hip-hop.
The album represents an important continuation of his musical legacy while showing how his sound and perspective have evolved over time.
Popular Xzibit Songs
Throughout his career, Xzibit has released and appeared on numerous memorable tracks. Some of the songs most closely associated with his career include:
- “Paparazzi”
- “What U See Is What U Get”
- “X”
- “Multiply”
- “Get Your Walk On”
- “Front 2 Back”
- “Bitch Please” with Snoop Dogg
His collaborations have also played an important role in his career. His appearance alongside Snoop Dogg on “Bitch Please” and his contributions to Dr. Dre’s 2001 helped increase his profile during a crucial period in his career.
Xzibit and Dr. Dre
Dr. Dre has been one of the most important figures in Xzibit’s career.
Xzibit’s growing reputation in the late 1990s brought him to Dr. Dre’s attention. He appeared on Dre’s influential 2001 album and worked with him on subsequent projects.
Dr. Dre also served as executive producer on Xzibit’s Restless and Man vs. Machine. Their collaboration helped Xzibit move from respected underground rapper to mainstream hip-hop star.
The relationship was particularly important because it connected Xzibit with some of the biggest names in West Coast rap.
Xzibit and Pimp My Ride
For many casual fans, Xzibit is best known as the host of MTV’s Pimp My Ride.
The show premiered during the height of the reality-TV boom and became famous for transforming ordinary cars into elaborate customized vehicles. Xzibit served as the charismatic host who introduced viewers to the car owners and the transformation process.
He began hosting the show in 2004, and the program quickly became a major part of his public identity.
His energetic personality and recognizable catchphrases helped make the show internationally popular. Pimp My Ride also introduced Xzibit to viewers who may not have previously listened to his music.
The program became so closely connected with his name that his career is often described through two major phases: his rise as a rapper and his success as the host of Pimp My Ride.
Xzibit Acting Career
Xzibit has also developed a substantial acting career.
He made appearances in films and television projects while continuing to work in music. Some of his notable screen credits include:
- 8 Mile
- XXX: State of the Union
- Gridiron Gang
- The X-Files: I Want to Believe
- Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans
- Sun Dogs
He also became part of the television series Empire, where he played the character Shyne Johnson.
His transition into acting demonstrated his versatility and helped him establish a career in entertainment beyond the recording studio.
Xzibit Television Career
Television became one of the most important parts of Xzibit’s career.
His role on Pimp My Ride gave him an international platform and helped transform him from a successful rapper into a recognizable mainstream personality.
He later appeared in additional television projects, including Empire, while also working in other areas of entertainment.
His television career is an important reason why Xzibit remains familiar to audiences who may know him more as a presenter and actor than as a rapper.
Xzibit Personal Life
Xzibit has generally kept many aspects of his personal life away from the spotlight, although some family details have been publicly reported.
He has children, including his son Tremayne, who has pursued music under the name Tre Capital. Xzibit has also experienced personal loss, including the death of his infant son Xavier in 2008.
His personal experiences have influenced some of his music and contributed to the more reflective side of his artistic work.
Xzibit Net Worth
Xzibit’s net worth is frequently discussed online, but exact figures vary considerably between websites and are not consistently verified by reliable public financial records.
His income has come from several areas, including:
- Music and album releases
- Live performances
- Television hosting
- Acting
- Music collaborations
- Production and entertainment projects
- Other business and media activities
Because celebrity net-worth estimates can change and are often based on incomplete information, readers should treat published estimates as approximations rather than confirmed figures.
Xzibit Age, Height and Quick Facts
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Alvin Nathaniel Joiner |
| Stage Name | Xzibit |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1974 |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Rapper, Actor, Television Host |
| Music Genre | Hip-Hop/Rap |
| Height | Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m) |
| Years Active | 1992–present |
His height is listed by IMDb as approximately 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters).
Xzibit Discography
Xzibit has released a number of studio albums during his career. His major solo albums include:
- At the Speed of Life — 1996
- 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz — 1998
- Restless — 2000
- Man vs. Machine — 2002
- Weapons of Mass Destruction — 2004
- Full Circle — 2006
- Napalm — 2012
- Kingmaker — 2025
His official discography confirms his extensive album history, while his official biography identifies Kingmaker as his first solo album in 12 years.
Xzibit Movies and TV Shows
Xzibit’s career has included both scripted and unscripted entertainment.
Movies
Some notable films featuring Xzibit include:
- 8 Mile
- XXX: State of the Union
- Gridiron Gang
- The X-Files: I Want to Believe
- Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans
- Sun Dogs
Television
His best-known television projects include:
- Pimp My Ride
- Empire
- Various guest and entertainment appearances
His work across different forms of media helped establish him as a multi-talented entertainer rather than simply a recording artist.
Xzibit Awards and Achievements
Xzibit’s career includes several significant accomplishments.
One of his biggest musical achievements was the success of Restless, which became a major commercial album and reached No. 12 on the Billboard 200. Man vs. Machine performed even higher, reaching No. 3.
He also achieved recognition through collaborations with major artists and producers, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Ice Cube, and others.
His success as the host of Pimp My Ride represents another major achievement because the program introduced his personality to audiences around the world.
Xzibit Influence and Legacy
Xzibit’s legacy comes from his ability to succeed across several areas of entertainment.
As a rapper, he became an important figure in West Coast hip-hop and built a reputation through strong lyrical delivery and energetic performances. His work with Dr. Dre and other influential artists helped cement his place in the genre.
As a television personality, Pimp My Ride introduced him to an entirely different audience. The show became a defining part of early-2000s pop culture and remains one of the projects most closely associated with his name.
His return to music with Kingmaker also demonstrates his continued commitment to hip-hop. Rather than relying only on nostalgia, the project presents Xzibit as an experienced artist reflecting on his career, personal growth, and the future of the culture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Xzibit
What is Xzibit’s real name?
Xzibit’s real name is Alvin Nathaniel Joiner.
How old is Xzibit?
Xzibit was born on September 18, 1974. His age therefore depends on the current date.
Where was Xzibit born?
Xzibit was born in Detroit, Michigan, United States.
What is Xzibit famous for?
Xzibit is famous for his career as a rapper, his collaborations with major hip-hop artists, his role as host of Pimp My Ride, and his acting work.
Was Xzibit the host of Pimp My Ride?
Yes. Xzibit became the host of MTV’s Pimp My Ride in 2004, and the show became one of the most recognizable parts of his career.
What are Xzibit’s most famous songs?
Some of his best-known songs include “Paparazzi,” “What U See Is What U Get,” “X,” “Multiply,” and “Get Your Walk On.”
What are Xzibit’s most famous albums?
Among his most notable albums are At the Speed of Life, 40 Dayz & 40 Nightz, Restless, Man vs. Machine, Weapons of Mass Destruction, Full Circle, Napalm, and Kingmaker.
Has Xzibit acted in movies?
Yes. Xzibit has appeared in movies including 8 Mile, XXX: State of the Union, Gridiron Gang, The X-Files: I Want to Believe, Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans, and Sun Dogs.
What is Xzibit’s latest studio album?
Xzibit’s latest solo studio album is Kingmaker, released in 2025. The album features collaborations with artists including Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Busta Rhymes, B-Real, and Ty Dolla $ign.
Official Website:
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Conclusion
Xzibit has built an unusually diverse career in entertainment. Starting as a young rapper and eventually becoming a respected West Coast hip-hop artist, he expanded his career into television, film, radio, and other areas of entertainment.
His music albums, collaborations with legends such as Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, and his memorable role on Pimp My Ride have all contributed to his lasting popularity.
With Kingmaker, Xzibit has continued his musical journey and shown that his connection to hip-hop remains strong decades after his professional career began. His story is ultimately one of resilience, versatility, and continued reinvention in the entertainment industry.