Xzibit [ tickets ] takes a break from his moonlighting gig as host of MTV's "Pimp My Ride" to work the stage during a 10-date U.S. tour.

The rapper, who is supporting last year's "Weapons of Mass Destruction," launches the run March 18 in San Francisco, and wraps things up April 4 in Chicago. The itinerary is included below.

The tour is part of a competition dubbed Hip Hop SupaStar. Sponsored by Cingular Wireless, Sony Ericsson and Sony Urban Music, the contest pits 10 already-selected, unsigned hip-hop artists against each other. Fans can vote for their favorite contestant at a kiosk that will be set up at each stop on Xzibit's tour. More information is available at the competition's website.

Released in December, "Weapons of Mass Destruction" is Xzibit's fifth album, and follows 2002's "Man vs. Machine."

"This album is where I am as a man and a father and somebody who's got some experience under their belt," Xzibit said of the new set in a press release. "I've got a lot to say for being such a young man and since my first album came out when I was 19, I've had the luxury of growing with my audience."

The rapper has found a broader audience since landing his role on MTV's "Pimp My Ride," which documents custom auto makeovers awarded to random winners.

"I was at Target and this woman who must have been over 50 comes up to me, says, 'Oh! I love "Pimp My Ride!"'," he said. "That's the best thing. That's positive to me or like when little kids recognize me? That's fun!"