 The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling 1,000,000 copies in the United States on August 17, 2000.The LP sold close to 178,000 copies in its first week released

"Life Story" garnered positive reviews from music critics for its production and Rob's musicianship.Roxanne Blanford of AllMusic commended Rob's vocal delivery for being reminiscent of the "smooth, reserved style" of The Notorious B.I.G.