An American actor and musician, born in Newark, New Jersey, he initially gained fame as a rapper in the 1980s with his controversial and politically charged lyrics. Transitioning to acting in the 1990s, he became widely recognized for his role as Detective Odafin Tutuola on the long-running TV series "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit." Known for his distinctive voice and tough-guy persona, he has successfully bridged the worlds of music and acting over a diverse and enduring career.