Book Russell Simmons

Russell Simmons is an American businessman, author and music mogul who helped carry hip-hop from New York clubs into the global mainstream. After producing or managing early rap artists including Run DMC, Kurtis Blow, Jimmy Spicer and Whodini, he co-founded Def Jam Recordings with producer Rick Rubin in 1984. As chairman he oversaw a roster that came to include LL Cool J, Public Enemy, Beastie Boys, DMX, Jay-Z and Kanye West, and he sold his share of the label to Universal Music Group in 1998. He co-produced and appeared in the film Krush Groove (1985), and with partner Stan Lathan he produced HBO's Def Comedy Jam, which ran from 1992 to 1997, and Def Poetry Jam. His film producing credits also include The Addiction (1995), The Nutty Professor (1996) with Eddie Murphy and Def Jam's How to Be a Player (1997). In fashion he launched Phat Farm in 1992, followed by Baby Phat, Argyleculture and Tantris, and in 2003 he co-founded the prepaid card company RushCard. He has written books on lifestyle, health and entrepreneurship, including The Happy Vegan, and promoted yoga and plant-based living. His honors include the James Parks Morton Interfaith Award.