Russell Simmons

Russell Simmons is a music executive, entrepreneur and producer best known as a cofounder of Def Jam Recordings. Simmons was born and raised in Queens, New York. He attended City College of New York, where he became immersed in the emerging hip-hop scene and ultimately left school to pursue opportunities in music and promotion.

In the late ’70s and early ’80s, Simmons began promoting rap shows in New York City and managing artists such as Kurtis Blow. In 1984, he cofounded Def Jam Recordings with Rick Rubin, helping launch the careers of artists like LL Cool J, Run-DMC, Public Enemy and Beastie Boys. Def Jam quickly became one of the most influential labels in music, cementing Simmons’ role as a major power broker in entertainment.

Beyond music, Simmons expanded into television, film and fashion. He created and produced HBO’s Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry Jam, both of which introduced new talent to wide audiences. He also founded the clothing brand Phat Farm and has authored multiple books, including Russell Simmons: From Def Jam to Super Rich (2012) and Success Through Stillness (2014). In 2017, following a number of women coming forward to accuse Simmons of alleged sexual assault, he stepped down from his position at Def Jam. Simmons denied all allegations.

Simmons married Kimora Lee Simmons in 1998. The couple welcomed daughters Ming Lee Simmons (born in 2000) and Aoki Lee Simmons (born in 2002) before divorcing in 2006.