Pharrell Lanscilo Williams, also known mononymously as
Pharrell, is an American musician, record producer, singer, songwriter, rapper, and fashion designer. He first became known as one half of the music production duo the Neptunes, which he formed with Chad Hugo in 1992. 15 of their productions have peaked within the top ten of the
Billboard Hot 100, which includes four songs that peaked atop the chart. The two also formed the rock and hip-hop band N.E.R.D. with Shay Haley in 1999, for which Williams served as lead vocalist. He has been regarded as one of the most influential producers in modern popular music.