3 of the Youngest Artists to Ever Release Albums–What Were You Doing At Their Age?

What were you doing at nine? Likely not releasing an album that sold over a million copies. People, rightly, have their qualms with child stardom. It seldom works out for the best. But, that doesn’t mean it’s an unsuccessful gimmick. Several young artists have been able to rally with their older counterparts on the charts. Check out three of the youngest artists to ever release an album, below.

Videos by American Songwriter

Aaron Carter – Aaron Carter (Age 9)

Aaron Carter was only nine when he released his self-titled album. And, though that fact is certainly evident by the juvenile sound and charmingly naive lyrics, it’s still an impressive feat for such a young artist. It sold over a million copies when all was said and done. Though there is a lot that could be said about bringing a kid his age into the spotlight, it was certainly successful and enough to earn him a follow-up album.

You must have heard it from my best friend
She’s always talkin’ when she should be listening
Can’t keep a secret to save her life
But still I trusted her with all I felt inside
I never knew a rumor spread so fast
But now the word is out all over town

[RELATED: Newly Released Music from Aaron Carter Will Benefit Childhood Mental Health Foundation]

The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie – Stevie Wonder (age 12)

Next up on our list of the youngest artists to ever release an album, we have Stevie Wonder. Wonder released his first album at 12 years old. The song below doesn’t feature Wonder’s expert vocals, which we have now come to know and love. Nevertheless, his musical talent is felt thoroughly. Of course, Wonder would go on to release far more impactful records, but everyone has to start somewhere. This was an impressive start for Wonder.

Where has the time all gone to?
Haven’t done half the things we want to
Oh well, we’ll catch up some other time

This day was just a token
Too many words are still unspoken
Oh well, we’ll catch up some other time

Beware of Dog – Lil’ Bow Wow (Age 13)

Bow Wow appeared on a Snoop Dogg album when he was only six. A little while later, he earned enough traction to release his own album: Beware of Dog. Despite his age, he delivered an impressive catalog of rap hits. Revisit his namesake song, below.

In a big body shotgun ridin on dub’s
I’ve been seen with the baddest, heard with the best
And I got it locked down from the East to the West
Look at my eyes, ya know; I ain’t playin’

R&B singer and songwriter Stevie Wonder in the studio circa 1973. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)