Lavell William Crump (born April 11, 1974), better known by his stage name David Banner, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor. Banner's music career first began as a member of the rap duo, Crooked Lettaz. He became a solo artist in 2000, releasing his first title "Them Firewater Boyz, Vol. 1". Since 2000, Banner went on to release several successful titles including the 2003 album title "Mississippi: The Album", followed up by a sequel title "MTA2: Baptized in Dirty Water" released after the success of the first MTA album. He went on to release titles including "Certified", in 2005. Three years later, Banner returned with a new title "The Greatest Story Ever Told". In 2006, Banner made his first film appearance in Black Snake Moan (2006), starring Christina Ricci and Samuel L. Jackson. He also executive produced that Adult Swim show That Crook'd 'Sipp (2007). Other film appearances include Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming (2010) and The Last Punch (2016). He also provided rap songs for movies including 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) and See No Evil (2006).