Russell Simmons Bio: Net Worth, Parents, Songs, TV Shows, Age, Books, Net Worth, Wife, Children, Height, Nationality

Russell Simmons is an iconic music executive known for co-founding Def Jam Recordings, a label instrumental in bringing hip-hop to mainstream audiences.

His entrepreneurial ventures extended beyond music, encompassing fashion lines like Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and Tantris.

His impact is evident in the success of artists such as Run-D.M.C., the Beastie Boys, and LL Cool J, whose careers he helped launch and manage.

Profile

• Full name: Russell Wendell Simmons
• Nickname: Rush
• Date of birth: October 4, 1957
• Age: 68 years old
• Gender: Male
• Place of birth: Queens, New York City, USA
• State of origin: New York
• Nationality: American
• Profession: Entrepreneur, writer, record executive
• Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
• Parents: Daniel Simmons Sr. and Evelyn Simmons
• Siblings: Joseph Simmons (brother), Daniel Simmons Jr. (brother)
• Spouse: Kimora Lee Simmons (m. 1998; div. 2009)
• Children: Ming Lee Simmons, Aoki Lee Simmons
• Relationship status: Single
• Religion: Describes himself as a yogi, practicing yoga and embracing its principles
• Ethnicity: African-American
• Net worth: $340 million

Early Life and Education

Russell Wendell Simmons, now at the age of 68, was born on October 4, 1957, in the Hollis neighborhood of Queens, New York City. He is the son of Daniel Simmons Sr., a public school administrator, and Evelyn Simmons, a park administrator for the New York City Parks and Recreation Department.

Russell grew up alongside his two brothers: Daniel Simmons Jr., a painter, and Joseph Simmons, who later gained fame as “Rev Run” of the influential hip-hop group Run-D.M.C.

During his teenage years, Simmons briefly flirted with gang life but redirected his focus upon discovering the emerging hip-hop scene in the mid-1970s. The novel sound of rap music captivated him, leading him to immerse himself in the culture.

He attended August Martin High School in Queens and, after graduating in 1975, enrolled at the City College of New York in Harlem. It was there that he met DJ and B-boy Kurt Walker, who played a significant role in introducing Simmons to the hip-hop phenomenon.

Personal Life

Russell Simmons‘ personal life has been marked by notable relationships and family developments. In November 1991, he met model Kimora Lee when she was 16 years old and still in high school.

After several years of dating, they married on December 20, 1998, on the island of Saint Barthélemy. The couple had two daughters: Ming Lee Simmons, born on January 21, 2000, and Aoki Lee Simmons, born on August 16, 2002.

In March 2006, Simmons announced that he and Kimora had ended their relationship, and their divorce was finalized two years later. Despite their separation, they have maintained a cooperative co-parenting relationship, focusing on the well-being of their daughters.

Simmons has been a vegan since 1999, aligning with his advocacy for animal rights and a healthy lifestyle. He practices Jivamukti Yoga, which emphasizes vegetarianism and social activism, and is also a practitioner of Transcendental Meditation.

Career

Russell Simmons‘ career is characterized by his significant contributions to the music and fashion industries. In 1984, he co-founded Def Jam Recordings with producer Rick Rubin. Under Simmons‘ leadership as chairman, Def Jam signed and promoted a roster of influential artists, including the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, LL Cool J, Jay-Z, DMX, and Kanye West.

Beyond music, Simmons expanded his entrepreneurial pursuits into fashion by creating clothing lines such as Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and Tantris. These brands played a pivotal role in bringing urban fashion to mainstream markets, reflecting Simmons‘ vision of integrating hip-hop culture with everyday lifestyle.

Simmons also ventured into television production, notably producing the “Def Comedy Jam” television program from 1992 to 1997. The show was instrumental in launching the careers of numerous comedians and further showcased Simmons‘ ability to influence and shape popular culture.

Awards

Throughout his career, Russell Simmons has received recognition for his contributions to the music and entertainment industries. Notably, he was honored with the Vanguard Award at the 40th NAACP Image Awards in 2009, acknowledging his significant impact on promoting diversity and social justice.

Additionally, his television production “Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry” earned a Peabody Award, highlighting its excellence in storytelling and contribution to the arts.

In 2003, the Broadway production “Russell Simmons’ Def Poetry Jam” won a Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event, further cementing his legacy.

Net Worth

Russell Simmons‘ net worth is estimated to be around $340 million. This substantial wealth primarily stems from his diverse portfolio, including his influential role in the music industry through Def Jam Recordings, successful fashion ventures like Phat Farm, and strategic real estate investments.

Controversy

Russell Simmons‘ career has been marred by multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and assault, significantly impacting his image and profession. The controversies began surfacing prominently in November 2017, when model Keri Claussen Khalighi accused Simmons of sexually assaulting her in 1991 when she was 17 years old. Simmons denied the allegations, asserting that the encounter was consensual.

Around the same time, actor Terry Crews revealed that Simmons had attempted to influence him to withdraw sexual assault allegations against a Hollywood executive. Crews shared that Simmons emailed him, suggesting he give the executive “a pass.” This revelation added to the growing scrutiny of Simmons‘ conduct.

In December 2017, writer Jenny Lumet accused Simmons of raping her in 1991. In response, Simmons stepped down from his various business roles, including his position at Def Jam Recordings, stating that he did not want to be a distraction to the many talented people associated with his companies.

He also denied the allegations, calling them “categorically false,” but expressed his willingness to work with those who wanted to understand the truth. Despite his denials, the wave of accusations against Simmons continued, leading to significant professional fallout.

Following the allegations, Simmons faced further public backlash, with several of his business ventures suffering as a result. He stepped away from his brands and distanced himself from many of his previous ventures.

Social Media

• Instagram: @unclerush
• X: @UncleRUSH

Books

• The New Rules of Marriage (2009)
• Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All (2011)
• Do You!: 12 Laws to Access the Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success (2007)