Aloe Blacc, born Egbert Nathaniel Dawkins III in 1979 in Southern California, is a celebrated artist and producer known for his contributions to the music industry. His musical journey began early, learning the trumpet during middle school and later graduating from the University of Southern California. Initially embarking on a career in the corporate world, Blacc's passion for music led him to form the hip-hop duo Emanon with producer Exile in the mid-1990s.

With Emanon, Aloe Blacc released several albums, including Steps Through Time (2001), Imaginary Friends (2002), and The Waiting Room (2005). In 2003, he transitioned into a solo career, launching with a series of EPs that culminated in his full-length debut, Shine Through, in 2006. The album received both critical acclaim and commercial success, setting the stage for his future endeavors as a solo artist.

Aloe Blacc gained significant recognition in 2010 with his hit song "I Need a Dollar," which became the theme song for the HBO series How To Make It in America. His follow-up album, Good Things, also garnered attention, featuring singles such as “Green Lights” and “Loving You is Killing Me.” However, his career skyrocketed after co-writing and providing vocals for Avicii's international blockbuster "Wake Me Up," which reached number one in 103 countries and became the fastest-selling single in the UK.

Since then, Aloe Blacc has continued to rise in prominence, earning multiple Brit Award nominations and performing at major music festivals, including Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and Coachella. In 2013, he signed with Interscope Records and released the EP Wake Me Up, which included new tracks along with an acoustic version of the title song. His major label debut, Lift Your Spirit, was released in November 2013 and featured production from notable figures like Pharrell Williams.

In addition to his musical contributions, Blacc has been involved in various collaborative projects. He was featured on tracks for the 2014 FIFA World Cup compilation album One Love, One Rhythm and worked with artists like Owl City and Tiësto in future releases. Aloe Blacc has also actively participated in social causes, releasing a music video for "Wake Me Up" that highlighted immigrant rights.