Russell Simmons
Russell Wendell Simmons
Russell Simmons is an American music executive from New York City, New York active since 1983.
- Profession
- Record executive, Entrepreneur
- From
- New York City, New York
- Born
- October 4, 1957
- Years active
- 1983–present
Early life
Raised in the Hollis neighborhood of Queens, Russell Simmons began promoting hip-hop parties in the late 1970s.
Career
He co-founded Def Jam Recordings, managed Run-DMC, and built the Phat Farm fashion brand and a media empire around hip-hop culture.
Major achievements
He helped transform hip-hop into a global commercial and cultural force as one of its first major executives.
Legacy
Russell Simmons pioneered the business infrastructure that turned hip-hop into a worldwide industry.
References
Related personalities
50 Cent
Rapper · Songwriter
50 Cent is an American rapper from New York City, New York active since 1996.
Jay-Z
Rapper · Songwriter
Jay-Z is an American rapper from New York City, New York active since 1986.
Sean Combs
Music Executive · Rapper
Sean Combs is an American music executive from New York City, New York active since 1990.
Steve Stoute
Music Executive · Entrepreneur
Steve Stoute is an American music executive from New York City, New York active since 1990.