They all showed early signs of big talent.
Ariana Grande
The pop songstress of today recorded this gem at 14. We think it contains some serious sexual innuendo.
Track: Higher
Year: 2008/09
Drake
At the age of nineteen, Wheelchair Jimmy recorded this soulful track with Paula Patton’s ex.
If he considers this his start at the bottom, we have a long ways to go.
Track: Teach You A Lesson
Mixtape: Comeback Season
Year: 2006
Childish Gambino
2010’s The Great Gambino produced hits like “Freaks and Geeks” and “Do Ya Like”, but do you recall Donald’s track with Swedish vocalist Beldina Malaika?
Track: Not Going Back feat. Beldina Malaika
Album: The Great Gambino
Year: 2010
JoJo
The former teen queen paid homage to Jill Scott with a jazzy spin on “Too Little Too Late.”
Adele
The British neo-soul pop sensation added some serious pipes to The Strokes’ Last Night.
Nelly and Christina Aguilera
Originally meant for Nelly and Britney Spears, the “Hit Me Baby One More Time” songstress lacked an “urban” enough voice.
In a heartbeat, producers called on Christina Aguilera, who unsurprisingly delivered.
Track: Tilt Ya Head Back
Album: Sweat
Year: 2004
Leighton Meester
A few months prior “Good Girls Gone Bad”, the former Gossip Girl star lends her pipes to Awesome New Republic on “Birthday.”
Track: Birthday
Year: 2009
Max Schneider
The YouTube sensation writes, composes and produces his own music. To promote his EP, he charms an Emma Watson lookalike in the video for “You Don’t Know Me.”
Track: You Don’t Know Me
EP: First Encounters
Year: 2010
Christina Aguilera
Undoubtedly skilled at her craft, Aguilera is often criticized for over-singing. In this cover of Nina Simone’s ballad “I Love You Porgy”, she displays effortless vocal control.
Nicki Minaj
Our beloved Southside Jamaica queen freestyles on the streets of NY.
Track: Dirty Money
Year: circa 2008