The-Dream (real name Terius Nash) was born in Rockingham, N.C., and moved with his mother, Reva Nash, to Atlanta when he was just 3 years old.

During his teen years, he played several instruments, including the guitar, trumpet and drums. At age 15, The-Dream's mother died and it spiraled him into a deep depression. The only thing that saved him was writing songs. He moved in with his grandfather, who instilled him with a serious work ethic and encouraged him to pursue a career as a songwriter.

His breakthrough came in 2001, when he wrote 'Everything' for teen group B2K, a big hit for the now-defunct, R&B boy band. His pen game also made J. Holiday's 'Bed' and 'Suffocate' chart-toppers, and a chance meeting with a young singer named Rihanna yielded one of her most well-known tracks, 'Umbrella.' Later, he penned Beyonce's female empowerment anthem, 'Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).'

The-Dream has also forged a successful career as a solo artist, with three albums under his belt. The singer-songwriter plans to drop his fourth effort, 'IV Play,' in 2013.

Watch The-Dream's 'Shawty's a 10' Video Feat. Fabolous

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