In the 1990s and 2000s, Sean “Diddy” Combs reigned over American hip-hop. He produced chart-topping albums, launched an influential record label, recorded hit songs, inked lucrative branding deals and catapulted hip-hop into a worldwide cultural force.

Sean 'Diddy' Combs' defense is prepared to tell the judge and jury that Combs' sexual activity was consensual. Here's what an attorney thinks.

Combs, who gave a thumbs up to supporters ahead of opening arguments, pleaded not guilty to a five-count indictment that could land him in prison for at least 15 years if he is convicted on all charges.