Summary
Known by many as the godfather of hip-hop, Russell Simmons first took notice of the burgeoning movement as a college student in New York City. After making a name for himself promoting shows and managing artists, Simmons cofounded Def Jam Recordings and began producing some of the most prominent names in hip-hop. Expanding his interests, Simmons turned to film and TV production, and it wasn’t long before he would conquer the fashion industry with his influential Phat Farm clothing line. More recently, Simmons has focused on philanthropic ventures, founding the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network to promote economic and social justice, fighting anti-Semitism and cruelty toward animals, encouraging young people to vote, and serving as an entrepreneurial role model. This insightful biography traces the life of a man whose remarkable achievements in the world of hip-hop have led to memorable work for worthy causes.
Specifications
Full-color photographs. Sidebars. Discography. Glossary. Chronology. Bibliography. Further reading. Web sites. Index.
About the Author(s)
Cookie Lommel has served as entertainment editor for Teen magazine, associate editor for Radio & Records magazine, and editor at large for Black Elegance magazine. She also has interviewed hundreds of film, television, and music personalities as a reporter for CNN.
Series introduction author Chuck D redefined rap music and hip-hop culture as leader and cofounder of legendary rap group Public Enemy. His music addressed weighty issues about race, rage, and inequality with a jolting combination of intelligence and eloquence. A musician, writer, radio host, television personality, college lecturer, and activist, Chuck D is also the creator of Rapstation.com, a multiformat online resource for the global hip-hop community.