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Welcome to my own sandbox. [[User:DBrown SPS|DBrown SPS]] ([[User talk:DBrown SPS|talk]]) 01:15, 25 August 2015 (UTC)
Welcome to my own sandbox. [[User:DBrown SPS|DBrown SPS]] ([[User talk:DBrown SPS|talk]]) 01:15, 25 August 2015 (UTC)


== Feuds involving Meek Mill ==
== Interscope Capitol Labels Group ==
{{Infobox record label
This section enlists a archive of [[rival]]ries that involves American rapper [[Meek Mill]].
| name = Interscope Capitol Labels Group
| parent = [[Universal Music Group]]
| founded = {{start date|2024}}
| distributor = {{flatlist|
* [[Interscope Geffen A&M Records]] {{small|(Interscope/Geffen releases)}}
* [[Capitol Music Group]] {{small|(Capitol/Blue Note/Motown releases)}}
* Universal Music Group {{small|(International)}}
* [[Universal Music Enterprises|UMe]] {{small|(Reissues)}}
}}
| genre = Various
| location = [[Santa Monica, California|Santa Monica]], [[California]], U.S.
}}


'''Interscope Capitol Labels Group''' is a music label unit of [[Universal Music Group]]. It was formed in 2024 through Universal Music's combination of [[Interscope Geffen A&M Records]] and [[Capitol Music Group]], alongside its variated subsidiaries and/or divisions.
=== Cassidy ===
A feud started between Meek Mill and fellow Philadelphia-born rapper [[Cassidy (rapper)|Cassidy]], when Mill offered to [[rap battle|battle]] several underground rappers including Cassidy. Cassidy would later accept the challenge, adding "if the money was right". They participated in a short social exchange, after which Cassidy released "The Diary of a Hustla", which was originally thought to be a [[diss track]] towards Mill. This was later refuted by Cassidy.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ryon|first=Sean|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21912/title.cassidy-denies-dissing-meek-mill-on-the-diary-of-a-hustla/|title=Cassidy Denies Dissing Meek Mill On "The Diary Of A Hustla"|publisher=HipHop DX|date=November 16, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref> They both asked $100,000 each for the battle to take place.<ref>{{cite web|last=Vasquez|first=Andres|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.21742/title.meek-mill-wants-to-battle-cassidy-or-murda-mook-asks-for-100000-or-more|title=Meek Mill Wants To Battle Cassidy Or Murda Mook, Asks For $100,000 Or More|publisher=HipHop DX|date=November 2, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Harling|first=Danielle|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22024/title.cassidy-says-a-rap-battle-with-meek-mill-would-be-good-for-hip-hop|title=Cassidy Says A Rap Battle With Meek Mill Would Be "Good For Hip Hop"|publisher=HipHop DX|date=November 28, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref> However, after Meek Mill dissed Cassidy's song "Condom Style" (a remake of [[Psy]]'s "[[Gangnam Style]]") Cassidy released a formal diss track towards Mill with "Me, Myself & iPhone".<ref>{{cite web|author=NewMusic|url=http://www.thisis50.com/profiles/blogs/cassidy-me-myself-iphone-meek-mill-diss-listen-download?xg_source=activity|title=Cassidy - Me, Myself & iPhone [Meek Mill Diss&#93; Listen/Download|publisher=ThisIs50.com|date=December 22, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Cooper|first=Roman|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22305/title.cassidy-disses-meek-mill-on-me-myself-iphone|title=Cassidy Disses Meek Mill On "Me, Myself, & iPhone"|publisher=HipHop DX|date=December 22, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref> Afterwards, Meek Mill responded with the diss track "Repo", which Mill later said would be the final diss record he would release against Cassidy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xclusiveszone.net/2012/12/meek-mill-repo-cassidy-diss/|title=Meek Mill – Repo (Cassidy Diss)|publisher=Xclusives Zone|date=December 26, 2012|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref>


Despite the two companies jointly structured under ICLG, both Interscope and Capitol maintain autonomous identities separately.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Rys |first=Dan |date=2024-03-07 |title=John Janick Unveils Newly Restructured Interscope Capitol Labels Group |url=https://www.billboard.com/business/record-labels/interscope-capitol-labels-group-announced-leadership-1235626266/ |access-date=2024-10-09 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref>
Cassidy later said the feud was not personal, saying it was all in the spirit of [[hip hop]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Horowitz|first=Steven J.|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/news/id.22407/title.cassidy-says-he-used-to-help-meek-mill-write-raps/|title=Cassidy Says He Used To Help Meek Mill Write Raps|publisher=HipHop DX|date=January 2, 2013|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref> On January 6, 2013 Cassidy released a 10-minute-long diss response titled "Raid".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/singles/id.23361/title.cassidy-raid-meek-mill-diss|title=Cassidy - Raid (Meek Mill Diss) &#124; New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2011|publisher=HipHop DX|date=January 6, 2013|accessdate=October 7, 2013}}</ref> Eight months later, on September 5, 2013 Meek Mill released another diss record towards Cassidy, titled "Kendrick You Next". This is despite the fact he said "Repo" would be his final diss record.<ref>{{cite news|last=Ortiz|first=Edwin|title=Meek Mill Releases Cassidy Diss Record "Kendrick You Next"|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/09/meek-mill-kendrick-you-next-cassidy-diss|newspaper=Complex}}</ref> Three days later, Cassidy released a diss record titled "Catch A Body", as a response.<ref>{{cite news|last=X|first=Dharmic|title=Cassidy Responds to Meek Mill on "Catch A Body"|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2013/09/cassidy-catch-a-body-meek-mill-diss|newspaper=Complex|date=September 8, 2013}}</ref>


=== History ===
On October 1, 2016, Cassidy and Meek Mill both announced the ending of their feud, during the set of an original [[Netflix]] series, currently undergoing several arrangements. The series is based on both rappers' hometown of Philadelphia and its crime rate, and is expected to star Mill, as well as fellow rapper [[ASAP Rocky]] and new-coming entertainer Darrion "Beans" Brown; the second season is expected to star Cassidy as well. This show is also being created by [[filmmaking]] icon [[Spike Lee]], becoming his first television series he has ever created as a filmmaker.


=== Drake ===
==== Formation (2024) ====
In February 2024, Universal Music Group CEO [[Lucian Grainge]] and [[Interscope Records]] chairman [[John Janick]] announced the merger of Interscope Geffen A&M and Capitol Music Group to help UMG oversee coastal operations in California (Interscope Capitol). Janick was to be in charge of the company's "West Coast" operations while [[Republic Records]] co-founder [[Monte Lipman]] was to run "East Coast" operations in [[New York City]] under Republic Corps.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Rys |first=Dan |date=2024-02-01 |title=Universal Music Group Announces Label Restructure, With Monte Lipman and John Janick as Leaders |url=https://www.billboard.com/business/record-labels/universal-music-restructuring-labels-monte-lipman-john-janick-1235595516/ |access-date=2024-10-09 |website=Billboard |language=en-US}}</ref>
In July 2015, Meek Mill publicly criticized [[Canadian people|Canadian]] entertainer [[Drake (musician)|Drake]] on Twitter, calling him out for not writing his own lyrics. In a series of tweets, the rapper claimed his counterpart used a [[ghostwriter]] for the song "[[R.I.C.O. (song)|R.I.C.O.]]" off Meek's ''[[Dreams Worth More Than Money]]'' album.<ref>{{cite web|title=Meek Mill Disses Drake, Jay Z, (& Others), Comes For Safaree|url=http://spacedoutmagazine.com/2015/07/21/meek-mill-disses-drake-jay-z-others-comes-for-safaree/|website=Spacedoutmagazine.com|publisher=SOM Media Network|accessdate=July 22, 2015}}</ref> He also admitted that he was upset that Drake didn't promote the album on Twitter, upon its release. "Stop comparing drake to me too.... He don't write his own raps! That's why he ain't tweet my album because we found out," Meek Mill commented.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2015/07/22/meek-mill-calls-out-drake-he-dont-write-his-own-raps/ |title=Meek Mill Calls Out Drake: "He Don’t Write His Own Raps" |publisher=BallerStatus.com |date=July 22, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/MeekMill/status/623700698509758464 |title=Meek Mill's Twitter |date=July 21, 2015}}</ref> Meek Mill had identified the ghostwriter as Quentin Miller, a local rapper from Atlanta. Meek Mill's claims received support from [[Funkmaster Flex]], an American hip hop DJ on New York City's [[Hot 97]] radio station. Flex released multiple audio recordings of reference tracks featuring Quentin Miller performing the soon-to-be Drake songs, "[[If You're Reading This It's Too Late|10 Bands]]", "Used To", "Know Yourself" and his guest verse on "R.I.C.O."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/music/2015/07/funk-flex-leaks-more-drake-reference-tracks|title=Funk Flex Just Leaked Another Drake Reference Track - Complex|author=Jay Balfour|date=July 31, 2015|work=Complex}}</ref>


Under staff reorganization, longtime Interscope vice chairman Steve Berman was promoted to keep his title under ICLG. [[Michelle Jubelirer]], once the chairwoman of Capitol Music Group, departed soon after. Annie Lee was hired as the chief operational officer of the unit. Tom March, the CEO of Interscope division [[Geffen Records]], was repromoted to chairman and CEO of ICLG. [[Universal Music Publishing Group]] executive Lilia Parsa was hired as president.<ref name=":1" />
Drake was later supported by his long-time friend, collaborator and co-founder of [[OVO Sound]], award-winning multi-platinum selling producer [[Noah "40" Shebib|40]], who claimed that not only does Drake write his own songs, he has also written number-one records for other artists. "No one is as talented as Drake… [there are] countless number ones and songs drake has written for others never mind himself", 40 said on Twitter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://time.com/3969499/drake-ghostwriting-meek-mill/ |title=Drake Producer Defends Rapper Against Meek Mill’s Ghostwriting Accusations |publisher=TIME Magazine |date=July 23, 2015}}</ref>


==== Interscope/Geffen success (2024) ====
On July 25, 2015, Drake premiered a track, titled "[[Charged Up]]" on the [[Apple Music|Beats 1 OVO Radio Show]] that is widely seen as a response to Meek Mill's allegations. Drake highlighted Meek Mill's relatively low sales volume and further claimed that the rapper was fading into obscurity.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ballerstatus.com/2015/07/26/drake-responds-to-meek-mill-on-new-track-charged-up/ |title=Drake Responds To Meek Mill On New Track "Charged Up" |publisher=BallerStatus.com |date=July 26, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://genius.com/7445948 |title=Drake "Charged Up" Lyrics |publisher=Genius |date=July 26, 2015}}</ref> Drake also dissed Funkmaster Flex by promoting his rival [[DJ Clue?]]. On July 29, Drake released an aggressive diss track, named "[[Back to Back (Drake song)|Back to Back]]", that further attacked Meek Mill. The track, streamed over 500,000 times in 4 hours, heavily suggested that Mill's relationship with [[Nicki Minaj]] is lopsided in the latter's favor and also further criticized the former for not responding to "Charged Up" and for only relying on Twitter to attack Drake.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://genius.com/7466334 |title=Drake "Back to Back Freestyle" Lyrics |publisher=Genius |date=July 29, 2015}}</ref> The track was released for streaming on the OVO SoundCloud account and on Apple Music.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://soundcloud.com/octobersveryown/drake-back-to-back-freestyle |title=Drake ~ Back To Back Freestyle by octobersveryown |publisher=OctobersVeryOwn on SoundCloud |date=July 29, 2015}}</ref> The next day, Meek Mill released a track attacking Drake titled "[[Wanna Know (Meek Mill song)|Wanna Know]]" through Funkmaster Flex on Hot 97.<ref>{{cite web|title=Meek Mill Releases Drake Diss Track On Hot 97|url=http://spacedoutmagazine.com/2015/07/30/meek-mill-releases-drake-diss-track-on-hot-97/|website=Spaced Out Magazine|publisher=SOM Media Network|accessdate=July 30, 2015}}</ref> On "Wanna Know", Meek Mill revealed another reference track, ghostwritten by Quentin Miller for Drake, while also criticizing Drake for being soft.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://genius.com/Meek-mill-wanna-know-lyrics/ |title=Meek Mill "Wanna Know" Lyrics |publisher=Genius |date=July 31, 2015}}</ref> Meek Mill also dissed [[AR-Ab]] and Daylyt on the track.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://genius.com/7475567 |title=Meek Mill "Wanna Know" Lyrics |publisher=Genius |date=July 30, 2015}}</ref> On "Wanna Know", Meek Mill claimed that Drake was urinated on inside a movie theatre. Mill then removed the song from [[SoundCloud]] and said that he was moving on from his feud with Drake.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.vh1.com/news/49424/wwe-meek-mill-removing-wanna/|title= Thank The WWE For Meek Mill’s Removal of "Wanna Know" From SoundCloud|author= Colin Stultz|work= [[VH1]]|publisher= [[Viacom]]|date= 13 August 2015|accessdate= February 12, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.complex.com/sports/2015/08/meek-mill-removed-drake-diss-wanna-know-soundcloud-wwe-cease-and-desist|title= Source: Meek Mill Removed His Drake Diss "Wanna Know" From Soundcloud After WWE Sent Him a Cease and Desist|author= Chris Yuscagove|publisher= [[Complex (magazine)|Complex]]|date= August 12, 2015|accessdate= February 12, 2016}}</ref>
Following the merger, Interscope and Geffen continued their streak of commercial success. [[Camila Cabello]], who have joined both labels, in 2023, released her fourth studio album, ''[[C,XOXO]]'', the following year. Other labelmates followed including [[Kendrick Lamar]], whose single, "[[Not Like Us]]", became Interscope Capitol's first [[Billboard Hot 100|''Billboard'' Hot 100]] number one single that year. [[Eminem]]'s [[The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)|''The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce)'']] gave the unit its first [[Billboard 200|''Billboard'' 200]] number one album. The prior spring, Lil Dump, an artist under [[Never Broke Again]], a label formed by rapper [[YoungBoy Never Broke Again]] and distributed by ICLG division label [[Motown]], signed with NBA through a distribution deal with Interscope to release his upcoming album.


However, rapper [[Schoolboy Q]]'s sixth studio album, [[Blue Lips (Schoolboy Q album)|''Blue Lips'']], released on March 1, performed poorly, as he blamed Universal and Interscope Capitol for its underpromotion.
On January 30, 2016, Drake released a new diss track aimed at Mill, titled "[[Summer Sixteen]]", as the [[buzz single]], used to promote his fourth studio album, ''[[Views (album)|Views]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Drake – Summer Sixteen|url = http://genius.com/Drake-summer-sixteen-lyrics|website = Genius|access-date = 2016-01-31}}</ref> Less than fifteen minutes later, Mill released a response track with label mate Omelly called "[[War Pain]]".<ref>{{Cite web|title = Meek Mill - War Pain (Drake Diss) Feat. Omelly (Prod. By Ben Billions) {{!}} Download & Listen [New Song]|url = http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/meek-mill-war-pain-feat-omelly-prod-by-ben-billions-new-song.1968342.html|website = HotNewHipHop|access-date = 2016-01-31}}</ref> The track references several lines from "Summer Sixteen", including an incident in which Drake played "Back to Back" in a public hotel, in which, he had a room directly above Mill. Four months later, Mill released a remix of [[Fat Joe]] and [[Remy Ma]]'s "[[All the Way Up (Fat Joe and Remy Ma song)|All the Way Up]]" with fellow rappers [[Fabolous]] and [[Jadakiss]]. Meek directly references Drake in several lines of the song, such as "If you didn't write it, don't record it." He also implied that he was in a relationship with Drake's current love interest, [[Rihanna]].<ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/meek-mill-disses-drake-on-fiery-all-the-way-up-remix-20160525</ref>


==== Capitol/Motown success (2024) ====
Meek Mill and Drake were both respectively endorsed by [[Burger King]] and [[Whataburger]] for their feud.<ref>http://www.inquisitr.com/2299313/meek-mill-doesnt-know-beef-various-fast-food-restaurants-serve-rapper-well-done/</ref>
Within the Capitol Records banner of ICLG, singer [[Katy Perry]] continued her success of 2020's [[Smile (Katy Perry album)|''Smile'']] with her 2024 follow-up, [[143 (Katy Perry album)|''143'']]. However, her labelmate, R&B musician [[Babyface (musician)|Babyface]], expressing discomfort with the company restructure, wanted off the imprint. Despite this, Motown, however, had its own dominant run with [[Quality Control Music]] and its artists [[Quavo]], [[Lil Yachty]], [[JT (rapper)|JT]] and [[Lil Baby]].


=== Labels under Interscope Capitol Labels Group ===
=== The Game ===
On September 16, 2016, [[The Game (rapper)|The Game]] released a five-minute freestyle, "92 Bars", which was rumored to be a diss towards Meek Mill.<ref>http://hiphopwired.com/2016/09/16/game-releases-meek-mill-diss-92-bars-stream/</ref><ref>http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/the-game-92-bars-meek-mill-diss-new-song.1971315.html</ref> Previously, Mill and Game collaborated on 2015's "The Soundtrack".<ref>http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/the-game-the-soundtrack-feat-meek-mill-new-song.1963424.html</ref> Hours after the release of "92 Bars", Game admitted that the freestyle was specifically a diss towards Mill. The next day, the two rappers ended up in a [[Instagram]] exchange, with The Game cyber-flirting with Meek Mill's girlfriend, [[Nicki Minaj]], as well as accusing him of calling the police, informing the authorities about a robbery involving [[Sean Kingston]].<ref>http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40440/title.meek-mill-the-game-wage-war-on-instagram</ref> On September 23, The Game released another diss track towards Mill, "Pest Control". Ten hours later, Meek Mill released the remix to Young M.A.'s "OOOUUU".<ref>http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40586/title.video-surfaces-of-meek-mills-studio-session-with-beanie-sigel-omelly-for-ooouuu</ref><ref>http://www.rollingstone.com/music/videos/watch-the-games-scathing-meek-mill-diss-video-pest-control-w442190</ref>


=== Beanie Sigel ===
==== Interscope Geffen A&M Records ====
A dispute between Meek Mill and fellow Philadelphia-bred rap legend [[Beanie Sigel]] ensued on September 26, 2016, when the latter ridiculed the former's intelligence towards him through a radio interview.<ref>http://www.vibe.com/2016/09/beanie-sigel-disses-meek-mill-interview-the-game-taxstone/</ref> Minutes after the interview, Sigel was punched on the back of his head by whoever was believed to have been one of Meek Mill's affiliates.<ref>http://hiphopdx.com/news/id.40570/title.wait-what-meek-mills-crew-jumped-beanie-sigel-after-ghostwriting-their-game-diss</ref> Then, three days later, Mill criticized Sigel through many derogatory messages via Instagram.<ref>http://www.hotnewhiphop.com/did-meek-mill-just-share-a-text-from-beanie-sigel-on-instagram-news.24414.html</ref> Later, Mill dissed Sigel, The Game and Drake in a freestyle on [[Funkmaster Flex]]'s radio show.<ref>[http://www.ibtimes.com/meek-mill-vs-drake-beef-nicki-minajs-boyfriend-hits-back-game-beanie-sigel-all-his-2424929 Meek Mill vs. Drake Beef: Nicki Minaj’s Boyfriend Hits Back At The Game, Beanie Sigel And All His Haters]</ref> Sigel responded by releasing a diss track titled “I'm Coming”.<ref>[http://www.ibtimes.com/meek-mill-vs-beanie-sigel-beef-sigel-brings-nicki-minaj-meek-new-diss-song-im-coming-2427619 Meek Mill Vs. Beanie Sigel Beef: Sigel Brings Up Nicki Minaj And Meek In New Diss Song ‘I’m Coming’]</ref>


* [[Interscope Records]]
=== Foxy Brown ===
* [[Geffen Records]]
In September 2016, female rapper [[Foxy Brown (rapper)|Foxy Brown]] dissed both The Game and Meek Mill via an Instagram post, calling them out for putting Nicki Minaj in the middle of their dispute, hence the fact that both Minaj and Brown are friends.{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Minutes later, Brown released a formal diss track, "Jugg and Finesse", which disses Meek Mill, as well as [[Desiigner]] and producer [[Timbaland]]'s protégé [[Tink (rapper)|Tink]]. On the diss song, Foxy Brown called Meek Mill a "no-good, pussy-ass, son of a bitch".{{citation needed|date=September 2016}} Mill later responded through many Twitter threats that targeted Brown, including one which he said that he would "[[amputation|chop]] down both of her arms and legs for being disrespectful".{{citation needed|date=September 2016}}


=== Other feuds ===
==== Capitol Music Group ====


* [[Capitol Records]]
== References ==
* [[Blue Note Records]]
{{reflist}}
* [[Motown]]
* [[Priority Records]]

=== References ===
{{Reflist|30em}}

== Russell Simmons (page edit prediction) ==
{{Like resume|date=September 2022}}
{{short description|American entrepreneur and record executive}}
{{For|the [[Jon Spencer Blues Explosion]]'s drummer|Russell Simins}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2021}}
{{Infobox person
| name = Russell Simmons
| image = Russell Simmons 2012 Shankbone.JPG
| caption = Simmons at the 2012 [[Tribeca Film Festival]] premiere of ''[[Mansome]]''
| birth_name = Russell Wendell Simmons
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1957|10|4}}
| birth_place = [[New York City]], [[New York (state)|New York]], United States
| occupation = {{hlist|[[Entrepreneurship|Entrepreneur]]|[[Writing|writer]]|[[Music executive|record executive]]|[[Modern yoga gurus|modern yoga guru]]}}
| years_active = 1984–2017 {{small|(media entertainment)}}<br />2011–present {{small|(health guru)}}
| spouse = {{marriage|[[Kimora Lee Simmons]]|1998|2009|end=divorced}}
| children = 2
| relatives = {{hlist|[[Joseph Simmons]] {{small|(brother)}}|[[Danny Simmons]] {{small|(brother)}}}}
}}

'''Russell Wendell Simmons''' (born October 4, 1957) is an American [[Entrepreneurship|entrepreneur]], [[record executive]], [[Modern yoga gurus|modern yoga guru]] and accused [[sexual predator]].

In 1984, he and record producer [[Rick Rubin]] co-founded [[Def Jam Recordings]].<ref name="Aquino">{{cite news |last=Aquino |first=Joann Natalia |title=Russell Simmons, 'godfather of hip hop,' comes to Seattle: Part of 20-city author tour |newspaper=[[Seattle Post-Intelligencer]] |date=February 20, 2011 |url=http://www.seattlepi.com/ae/books/article/Russell-Simmons-godfather-of-hip-hop-comes-to-1023483.php |access-date=February 3, 2012}}</ref> He had since went on to create fashion lines Phat Farm, and Argyleculture. He also launched the digital content platform, All Def Digital, in 2013. A vegan and yoga supporter, Simmons launched Tantris in 2016. Simmons' net worth was estimated at $340 million in 2011.<ref name="autogenerated1">{{cite news|url=https://money.cnn.com/2011/04/26/smallbusiness/russell_simmons_small_business/index.htm |publisher=CNN |first=Tania |last=Padgett |title=Russell Simmons: Getting rich is so simple |date=April 26, 2011|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110429045319/https://money.cnn.com/2011/04/26/smallbusiness/russell_simmons_small_business/index.htm |archive-date=April 29, 2011|access-date=March 22, 2021}}</ref>

He managed to maintain his production or management roles through artists including [[Kurtis Blow]], [[EPMD]], [[Run-DMC]], [[Whodini]], [[Jimmy Spicer]], [[LL Cool J]] and various others.

His notable books about healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship are Success Through Stillness,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Success Through Stillness |url=https://www.goodreads.com/work/best_book/25386817-success-through-stillness-meditation-made-simple |access-date=2022-05-30 |website=www.goodreads.com}}</ref> Do you! 12 Laws to Access The Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Noble |first=Barnes & |title=Do You!: 12 Laws to Access the Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success{{!}}Paperback |url=https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/do-you-russell-simmons/1114005412 |access-date=2022-05-30 |website=Barnes & Noble |language=en}}</ref> The Happy Vegan,<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Happy Vegan |url=https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22835627-the-happy-vegan |access-date=May 30, 2022}}</ref> Super Rich: A Guide to Having it All<ref>{{Cite book |title=Super Rich Guide Having All |isbn=978-1592405879 |last1=Simmons |first1=Russell |last2=Morrow |first2=Chris |date=January 2011 }}</ref> and soon to be released Eat to Live: A Post Pandemic Lifestyle.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Inc |first=Mocha Media |date=2020-10-12 |title=Mocha Media Inc. Launches its New Publishing Division with the Announcement of EAT TO LIVE: A POST PANDEMIC LIFESTYLE by Four Time New York Times Best Seller Russell Simmons |url=https://www.send2press.com/wire/mocha-media-inc-launches-its-new-publishing-division-with-the-announcement-of-eat-to-live-a-post-pandemic-lifestyle-by-four-time-new-york-times-best-seller-russell-simmons/ |access-date=2022-05-30 |website=Send2Press Newswire |language=en-US}}</ref> Simmons also appointed as Gushcloud Studios Co-Chairman,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russell Simmons propels Gushcloud presence in LA, hunts under represented talent |url=https://www.marketing-interactive.com/gushcloud-and-president-russell-simmons-launch-gc-studios-to-grow-talent-portfolio-in-asia |access-date=2022-05-30 |website=www.marketing-interactive.com |language=en-gb}}</ref> a global entertainment production company, production studios, and talent management firm. Operating in 11 East Asian countries with key offices in Los Angeles, California.

Simmons has been living in Bali for five years. According to Simmons, Ubud, Bali looks like "yoga and vegan Disneyland". Simmons has lived life as a vegetarian for nearly 20 years. Simmons promotes a plant-based diet and a yogic lifestyle.

==Early life==
On October 4, 1957, Russell Wendell Simmons was born in [[Jamaica, Queens|Jamaica]], a neighborhood in [[Queens]], a [[Boroughs of New York City|borough]] of [[New York City]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Russell Simmons's Biography |url=https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/russell-simmons-40 |access-date=2022-09-09 |website=The HistoryMakers |language=en}}</ref><ref name=allmusic>{{cite web|url=http://www.allmusic.com/artist/russell-simmons-mn0000215647|title=Russell Simmons Biography |first=Steve |last=Huey|publisher=[[AllMusic]] |access-date=February 25, 2016}}</ref><ref name="QNS">{{cite news |last1=Rose |first1=Naeisha |title=Hollis icon Russell Simmons resigns from business after sexual misconduct accusations |url=https://qns.com/story/2017/12/08/hollis-icon-russell-simmons-resigns-from-business-after-sexual-misconduct-accusations/ |access-date=February 20, 2019 |publisher=QNS.com |date=December 8, 2017}}</ref> His father was a public school administrator and his mother was a park administrator for the [[New York City Department of Parks and Recreation|New York City Parks and Recreation Department]]. His brothers are painter [[Danny Simmons|Daniel "Danny" Simmons, Jr.]] and rapper [[Joseph Simmons|Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons]].

In 1975, after graduating from [[August Martin High School]], Simmons briefly attended the [[City College of New York]] in [[Harlem]] where he met a young DJ/Bboy, Kurt Walker, who influenced him to participate in the [[hip hop]] phenomenon.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.washingtonblade.com/2013/08/29/russell-simmons-athletes-leading-our-cultural-awakening-lgbt-sports-issue-opinion/|title=Russell Simmons: Athletes leading our cultural awakening|newspaper=[[Washington Blade]]|publisher=[[Window Media LLC]]|location=Washington DC|date=August 29, 2013|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|first=Carrie|last=Golus|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tC4qVYAiBy0C&pg=PA20|title=Russell Simmons: From Def Jam to Super Rich|publisher=Twenty-first Century Books|location=Minneapolis, Minnesota|date=2012|isbn=978-0761381570}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Mindy|last=Fetterman|url=http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/money/companies/management/2007-05-13-exec-simmons-usat_N.htm|title=Today's Entrepreneur: Russell Simmons can't slow down|work=[[USA Today]]|location=Mclean, Virginia|date=May 23, 2007|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref><ref>[http://investing.businessweek.com/research/stocks/private/person.asp?personId=1466913&privcapId=916373 "Executive Profile: Russell Simmons"], ''Bloomberg BusinessWeek''. Retrieved December 16, 2017.</ref><ref>Rachel Kranz, [https://books.google.com/books?id=NCHX6P8ETI0C&pg=PA252&lpg=PA252&dq=russell+simmons+1975+high+school&source=bl&ots=_-Ejg_qA73&sig=Kk2FJsEI_Gm9g302vyMov_8IrIk&hl=en&sa=X&ei=_lVNUuO4HIfa8wS1n4CQDQ&ved=0CFsQ6AEwBw#v=onepage&q=russell%20simmons%201975%20high%20school&f=false "Simmons, Russell"], in ''African-American Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs'', Facts On File, 2004, p. 252.<!--ISSN/ISBN needed, if any--></ref> Upon hearing [[Eddie Cheeba]] perform in [[Harlem]] in 1977, Simmons knew that hip hop would be his career.<ref name="Golus2012">{{cite book |author=Carrie Golus|title=Russell Simmons: From Def Jam to Super Rich|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HBpbEHD8qAQC&pg=PA21|date=January 1, 2012|publisher=Twenty-First Century Books|isbn=978-0-7613-8157-0|page=21}}</ref> Simmons stated, "Hearing Cheeba in '77 made me feel like I had just witnessed the invention of the wheel."<ref name="Golus2012" />

==Career==
[[File:Russell Simmons.jpg|thumb|left|Simmons in 2007|upright]]
Simmons co-founded Def Jam in 1984 with [[Rick Rubin]], who sold his share of the company for $120&nbsp;million to [[Universal Music Group]] in 1996. In 1985, Simmons co-produced and appeared in the film ''[[Krush Groove]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089444/fullcredits|title=Krush Groove (1985) : Full Cast & Crew|publisher=IMDb|access-date=February 1, 2016}}</ref> Simmons' company, Rush Communications Inc., includes over ten businesses and three non-profits. Simmons, with his partner [[Stan Lathan]], has also produced television hits [[HBO]]'s ''[[Def Comedy Jam]]'' and ''[[Def Poetry Jam]]'', and currently has a development deal with HBO.<ref name=Aquino /><ref>{{cite news|first=Patrick|last=Neate|url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2011/jun/13/def-jam-launched-simmons-rubin |title=Def Jam Records launched by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin|newspaper=[[The Guardian]] |location=London, England|date=July 12, 2011 |access-date=February 1, 2016}}</ref> In 1996, Simmons co-produced the hit film ''[[The Nutty Professor (1996 film)|The Nutty Professor]]'', starring [[Eddie Murphy]]. In 1997, Simmons co-produced the film ''[[Def Jam's How to Be a Player]]'', starring [[Bill Bellamy]].<ref>{{cite book|first1=Russell |last1=Simmons|first2=Nelson |last2=George |title=Life and Def: Sex, Drugs, Money, and God|year=2001|publisher=[[Random House]]|location=New York City|isbn=0609606077}}</ref> In 2003, Simmons co-founded RushCard, a prepaid debit card provider.<ref>{{cite news|author=Introduction: About Us |url=https://www.rushcard.com/about-us |title=RushCard Prepaid Visa Card |access-date=March 4, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|first=Michelle|last=Toh|url=http://fortune.com/2016/08/29/rushcard-russell-simmons/ |title=Russell Simmons' Prepaid Debit Card Is Adding New Security Features |magazine=[[Fortune Magazine]]|publisher=[[Meredith Corporation]]|location=New York City|date=August 29, 2016|access-date=March 4, 2017}}</ref>

In 1992, Simmons launched the clothing line Phat Fashions LLC using the [[Phat Farm]] and Baby Phat labels. When Simmons first created Phat Fashions LLC, the clothing line was sold in a shop in the SoHo district of Manhattan. Simmons's connections with well known rap artists helped to promote the clothing line to a wide audience. The influence of designers such as [[Ralph Lauren]] and [[Tommy Hilfiger]] gave the clothing line a classic look and feel. Phat Fashions encompassed hip hop clothing for women and children, as well as men, and grew into a lifestyle brand with the addition of jewelry, perfume, and other merchandise. Phat Fashions LLC sold merchandise in two stores in New York and Montreal, as well as online at www.phatfarm.com. In addition, the clothing line was carried by some 3,000 retailers in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/phat-fashions-llc-history/|title=History of Phat Fashions LLC – FundingUniverse|website=fundinguniverse.com}}</ref>

In 2004, Simmons sold Phat Farm and Baby Phat to the Kellwood Company for $140&nbsp;million.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.racked.com/2016/1/11/10737956/hip-hop-brands-fubu-sean-john-rocawear-phat-farm|title=Where Did These Hip-Hop Clothing Labels Go?|first=Nia|last=Porter|date=January 11, 2016|website=Racked}}</ref>

Simmons and his brothers founded the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation in 1995. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide art education and support to under-serviced youth by helping people of color access the arts and by providing exhibition opportunities. The Foundation serves about 3,000 students annually and maintains two galleries. The Rush Arts Gallery in Chelsea, Manhattan and the Corridor Gallery in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn exhibit the work of more than 100 community and emerging artists.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://rushphilanthropic.org/about/|title=About Us|publisher=Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation}}</ref>

In 2014, [[Claremont Lincoln University]] awarded Simmons an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humane Letters for his work as chairman of the [[Foundation for Ethnic Understanding]] and for promoting mindfulness, compassion and interreligious collaboration in the public sphere.<ref>Wes Woods, [http://www.dailybulletin.com/social-affairs/20140518/russell-simmons-keynote-speaker-for-claremont-lincoln-university "Russell Simmons keynote speaker for Claremont Lincoln University"], ''Inland Valley Daily Bulletin'', May 18, 2014.</ref>

In October 2021, Simmons released a [[NFT]] collection titled, "Masters of Hip Hop".<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-10 |title=Russell Simmons Launches NFT 'Masterminds of Hip Hop' Collection to Help Artists Earn Cash |url=https://www.blackenterprise.com/russell-simmons-launches-nft-collection-masterminds-of-hip-hop-to-help-pioneers-capitalize-on-their-contributions/ |access-date=2022-05-30 |website=Black Enterprise |language=en-US}}</ref> It centered on driving forces in the hip hop music industry and was curated by [[Snoop Dogg]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mozée |first1=Carla |title=Music mogul Russell Simmons is diving into NFTs with a 'Masterminds of Hip Hop' project curated with Snoop Dogg |url=https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/currencies/russell-simmons-nft-collection-snoop-dogg-def-jam-hip-hop-2021-10 |website=Business Insider |access-date=7 October 2021}}</ref>

==Personal life==
===Marriage===
Simmons and model [[Kimora Lee]] met in November 1992. They married on December 20, 1998,<ref name="split">{{cite magazine|first1=Stephen M.|last1=Silverman|url=https://people.com/celebrity/russell-kimora-lee-simmons-split/|title=Russell, Kimora Lee Simmons Split|magazine=[[People (magazine)|People]]|publisher=[[Meredith Corporation]]|location=New York City|date=March 31, 2006|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref> on the island of [[Saint Barthélemy]]. They have two children, Ming Lee (born 2000) and Aoki Lee (born 2002). In March 2006, Simmons announced that he and Lee had ended their relationship;<ref name="split"/> they officially divorced two years later.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://people.com/celebrity/kimora-lee-files-for-divorce-from-russell-simmons/|title=Kimora Lee Files for Divorce from Russell Simmons|magazine=[[People (magazine)|People]]|publisher=[[Meredith Corporation]]|location=New York City|date=March 26, 2008|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>

===Beliefs===
Simmons has been a [[vegan]] since 1999, and describes himself as a Christian yogi with a love and respect for all religions.<ref name="Aquino" /><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Ag5wDXEsX8 "Russell Simmons on his vegan diet, Obama and yoga"] at Youtube.</ref> He practices [[Jivamukti Yoga]],<ref>{{cite news|first=Sheila|last=Marikar|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/17/fashion/russell-simmons-yoga-los-angeles-tantris.html|title=Russell Simmons, the Yoga King of Los Angeles|newspaper=[[The New York Times]]|location=New York City|date=November 16, 2016|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref> which encourages vegetarianism and social and environmental activism. He is also a practitioner of [[Transcendental Meditation technique|Transcendental Meditation]] (TM)<ref>{{cite web|first=Alexa|last=Valiente|url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/russell-simmons-meditation-changed-life-relationship-donald-trump/story?id=47036252|title=Russell Simmons on how meditation changed his life, his relationship with Donald Trump|work=[[ABC News (United States)|ABC News]]|date=April 26, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref> and a supporter of the [[David Lynch Foundation|David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace]], which was established to ensure that any child in America who wants to learn and practice TM can do so.<ref>{{cite web|first=Russell|last=Simmons|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/russell-simmons/why-i-meditate_b_474689.html|title=Why I meditate|website=[[HuffPost]]|publisher=[[Huffington Post Media Group]]|location=New York City|date=February 24, 2010|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>

==Social activism==
Simmons is an advocate of [[Ahimsa]] and [[veganism]], citing [[animal rights]] along with the environmental and health benefits.<ref name="Aquino" /> He said he went vegan after watching the film [[Diet for a New America]] in the 1990s.<ref>{{Cite web|date=January 25, 2016|title=The Happy Vegan: Mogul Russell Simmons on How His Lifestyle Fuels His Success|url=https://www.forksoverknives.com/wellness/the-happy-vegan-mogul-russell-simmons-on-how-his-lifestyle-fuels-his-success/|access-date=August 22, 2020|website=Forks Over Knives|language=en-US}}</ref> He is a supporter of [[Farm Sanctuary]], an organization working to end cruelty to farm animals.<ref>{{cite news| url=http://yourlife.usatoday.com/mind-soul/doing-good/kindness/post/2009/11/Thanksgiving-getting-a-remake-courtesy-of-Russell-Simmons/8477/1 | work=USA Today | title=Thanksgiving getting a remake courtesy of Russell Simmons
| date=November 13, 2009}}</ref> [[People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals]] awarded him the 2001 PETA Humanitarian Award and the 2011 Person of the Year Award.<ref>Cookie Lommell, [https://books.google.com/books?id=4laORCuvf9UC&pg=PA84&lpg=PA84&dq=Russell+Simmons+PETA+humanitarian+award&source=bl&ots=LuJ1kf-RCa&sig=aHrDmyM5nHbUK1f7v0c3AxxARGQ&hl=en&ei=SiTmTtzRL4mzsALri-DvBQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CDsQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=Russell%20Simmons%20PETA%20humanitarian%20award&f=false ''Russell Simmons''] Infobase Publishing 2007.</ref><ref>Calvin Stovall, "[http://www.bet.com/news/music/2011/12/19/russell-simmons-honored-by-peta.html Russell Simmons Honored by PETA"], BET, December 19, 2011.</ref>

In 2009, Simmons organized thousands of protestors and hip hop celebrities in front of City Hall demanding change of the harsh sentencing of the [[Rockefeller Drug Laws]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=AbduSalaam|first1=Ismael|title=Russell Simmons Leads NY Protest Against Rockefeller Drug Laws|url=https://allhiphop.com/2009/03/25/russell-simmons-leads-ny-protest-against-rockefeller-drug-laws/|website=allhiphop.com|date=March 25, 2009|access-date=June 19, 2017}}</ref>

Simmons became chairman of the board of the [[Foundation for Ethnic Understanding]] in 2002.<ref>{{cite news |first= Anthony |last=Ramirez |title=Backstage With Six Rabbis, Six Imams and No 'Kumbaya' |newspaper=The New York Times |date=April 13, 2008 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/13/nyregion/13bias.html |access-date=June 3, 2013}}</ref> In May 2009, he was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the [[UN Slavery Memorial]] at the United Nations to honor the victims of slavery and the [[Atlantic slave trade|transatlantic slave trade]] by UN Secretary-General [[Ban Ki-moon]].<ref>[https://www.un.org/News/Press/docs//2009/sgsm12258.doc.htm "Secretary-General pledges to fill gap in knowledge about causes, effects of transatlantic slave trade"]. United Nations.</ref> In a similar vein, Simmons is a supporter of the [[Somaly Mam|Somaly Mam Foundation]],<ref>{{cite web|title=Russell Simmons Got A Joyful Hamptons' Social Life, Hosts Somaly Mam Foundation Benefit|date=August 15, 2011|url=http://globalgrind.com/entertainment/russell-simmons-cover-social-life-magazine-melissa-george-photos|publisher=Global Grind|access-date=August 15, 2011}}</ref> and was honored at their 2011 gala dinner.<ref>{{cite web|title=2011 East Coast Gala|url=http://www.somaly.org/events/2011-somaly-mam-foundation-east-coast-gala|publisher=Somaly Mam Foundation|access-date=September 19, 2011}}</ref> Simmons officially endorses the second [[Muslim Jewish Conference]] 2011. Together with Rabbi [[Marc Schneier]] he served as the official [[patron]] of the conference held July 2011 in [[Kyiv]], Ukraine. In 2011, he took part in the [[Occupy Wall Street]] protests, visiting the protesters at [[Zuccotti Park]] often and for many consecutive days.

Simmons is a longtime supporter of [[gay rights]], and he encourages [[marriage equality]].<ref>{{cite news| url=http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postpartisan/2011/03/russell_simmons_gay_marriage_a.html | newspaper=The Washington Post | title=Russell Simmons, gay marriage and Maryland}}</ref> In 2011, when the retail corporation [[Lowe's]] [[All-American Muslim#Sponsorship controversy|withdrew funding]] from the show ''[[All-American Muslim]]'', Simmons promised to pay [[the Learning Channel]] for any revenue lost.<ref>{{cite news|title=Waging a One-Man War on American Muslims|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/17/us/on-religion-a-one-man-war-on-american-muslims.html?_r=2&src=tp&smid=fb-share|author= Samuel G. Freedman|date=December 16, 2011|work=The New York Times}}</ref>

In 2012, Simmons supported Ohio congressman [[Dennis Kucinich]]'s re-election campaign, appearing with the politician at various speaking events.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.toledoblade.com/Politics/2012/03/02/Hip-hop-mogul-Russell-Simmons-to-appear-with-Kucinich.html | work=Toledo Blade | title=Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons to appear with Kucinich}}</ref> In November 2013, he pledged support for New York's mayoral candidate [[Bill de Blasio]] in recognition of his support for animal rights.<ref>[https://twitter.com/UncleRUSH/statuses/396387643237228544 "proud to support @deBlasioNYC to be NYC's next mayor as I know he supports animal rights and will stop abuse of the horses in Central Park"], Monday, November 1, 2013.</ref>

In 2017, Simmons was listed by UK-based company Richtopia at number 23 in the list of 200 Most Influential Social-Entrepreneurs and Philanthropists Worldwide.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://richtopia.com/inspirational-people/top-200-philanthropists-social-entrepreneurs|title=Philanthropists & Social Entrepreneurs Top 200: From Elon Musk to Melinda Gates, These Are the Most Influential Do-Gooders in the World|work=Richtopia|access-date=March 30, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170330083458/https://richtopia.com/inspirational-people/top-200-philanthropists-social-entrepreneurs|archive-date=March 30, 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/1096829-200-influential-philanthropists-world-see-nigerian-list.html|title=200 most influential philanthropists in the world|work=Naij|date=March 31, 2017|access-date=March 31, 2017}}</ref>

== Vegan burgers ==
Simmons is a senior advisor of the vegan burger brand Everything Legendary. The company closed a $6 million [[series A round]] in 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Axworthy |first=Nicole |title=How This Black-Owned Vegan Burger Brand Nearly Quadrupled Its Reach in One Year |url=https://vegnews.com/2022/2/everything-legendary-quadruples-business |access-date=2022-05-31 |website=VegNews.com |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Harriet Tubman sex tape controversy==
In August 2013, Simmons launched the controversial "Harriet Tubman Sex Tape" parody video on his YouTube channel, ''All Def Digital'', which led to public outrage and many critics demanding an apology. The video featured an actress portraying the abolitionist [[Harriet Tubman]] (1822–1913) having sex with her [[slave owner]] with the intent of filming the act and blackmailing him to convince him to work on the [[Underground Railroad]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Russell Simmons and the Harriet Tubman Sex Tape|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYmQM1NAaWY |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/YYmQM1NAaWY |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|website=[[The Young Turks]]|via=YouTube|location=San Bruno, California|date=August 15, 2013|access-date=December 8, 2017}}{{cbignore}}</ref> People from his own community, such as filmmaker [[Spike Lee]],<ref>{{Cite news|first=Melia|last=Robinson|url=http://www.businessinsider.com/spike-lee-slams-russell-simmons-for-producing-mock-harriet-tubman-sex-tape-2013-8|title=Spike Lee Slams Russell Simmons For Producing Mock Harriet Tubman Sex Tape|work=[[Business Insider]]|publisher=[[Axel Springer SE]]|location=New York City|date=August 15, 2013|access-date=December 8, 2017}}</ref> were offended by the controversial comedy sketch.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/aug/16/russell-simmons-defamed-harriet-tubman|newspaper=[[The Guardian]]|date=August 16, 2013|title=Russell Simmons, you defamed not just Harriet Tubman but all black women|first=Kimberly|last=Foster}}</ref>

''Rolling Stone'' published Simmons' apology for the parody in which he said:

{{cquote|I'm a very liberal person with thick skin. My first impression of the Harriet Tubman piece was that it was about what one of actors said in the video, that 162 years later, there's still tremendous injustice," Simmons wrote. "And with Harriet Tubman outwitting the slave master? I thought it was politically correct. Silly me. I can now understand why so many people are upset.

I would never condone violence against women in any form, and for all of those I offended, I am sincerely sorry."<ref>{{Cite magazine|first=RJ|last=Cubarrubia|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/russell-simmons-apologizes-for-harriet-tubman-sex-tape-20130815|title=Russell Simmons Apologizes for Harriet Tubman 'Sex Tape'|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|publisher=Wenner Media LLC|date=August 15, 2013|access-date=December 8, 2017}}</ref>}}

Despite his apology in 2013, the [[Viral video|nature of shareable digital media]] has allowed the comedy video to continue to circulate on YouTube and around the web.<ref>{{cite web|last=StraightFromTheA1 (YouTube)|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=78OvnOmZvTg&t=64s |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/78OvnOmZvTg |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|title=Harriet Tubman Sex Tape Controversy (Funny? Or Disrespectful?)|via=YouTube|date=August 15, 2013|access-date=December 8, 2017}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

==Sexual misconduct, assault and rape allegations==
{{See also|Weinstein effect}}

===Background===
In November 2017, model Keri Claussen Khalighi accused Simmons of raping her in 1991, when she was 17. Simmons and [[Brett Ratner]], whom Khalighi accused of watching them without intervening when she asked for his help, both deny that the encounter was non-consensual.<ref>{{cite news|first=Ben|last=Beaumont-Thomas|url=https://www.theguardian.com/music/2017/nov/20/russell-simmons-accused-of-sexual-assault-alongside-brett-ratner|title=Russell Simmons accused of sexual assault alongside Brett Ratner|newspaper=[[The Guardian]]|location=London, England|date=November 20, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>

As the allegation was covered in the press, [[Terry Crews]] accused Simmons of attempting to influence him to take back sexual assault allegations that Crews had recently brought up against film executive Adam Venit, asking that Crews "give him a pass ... ask that he be reinstated." Crews posted on his Twitter account a screenshot of the alleged e-mail he had received from Simmons.<ref>{{cite news|first=Soniya|last=Kelley|url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-entertainment-news-updates-russell-simmons-to-terry-crews-give-1511114119-htmlstory.html|title=Terry Crews says Russell Simmons asked him to give target of sexual-assault allegations 'a pass'|newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=November 19, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|first=Gwilym|last=Mumford|url=https://www.theguardian.com/film/2017/oct/11/actor-terry-crews-sexually-assaulted-by-hollywood-executive|title=Actor Terry Crews: I was sexually assaulted by Hollywood executive |work=[[The Guardian]]|location=London, England| date=October 11, 2017|access-date=November 29, 2017|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-41580861 |title=Brooklyn Nine-Nine actor claims groping|website=bbc.co.uk|publisher=[[BBC News]]|location=London, England|date=October 11, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|first=Lexy|last=Perez|title=Terry Crews Details Alleged Sexual Assault by WME's Adam Venit|url=http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/terry-crews-details-alleged-sexual-assault-by-wmes-adam-venit-1058506|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|publisher=[[Valence Media]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=November 15, 2017|access-date=November 16, 2017}}</ref>

On November 30, 2017, writer [[Jenny Lumet]] claimed that Simmons had raped her in 1991. In response, Simmons said he would step down from his positions with his businesses.<ref>{{cite news|first1=Jenny|last1=Lumet|author-link=Jenny Lumet|title=Writer Jenny Lumet: Russell Simmons Sexually Violated Me (Guest Column)|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/writer-jenny-lumet-russell-simmons-sexually-violated-me-guest-column-1062934|work=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|publisher=[[Valence Media]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=November 30, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref> On the same day, HBO announced that they would be removing Simmons' name and likeness from his stand-up comedy specials starting with the December 1 episode.

On December 13, 2017, ''[[The Los Angeles Times]]'' published an investigative report in which five women accused Simmons of sexual misconduct, including another alleged rape. On the same day, ''[[The New York Times]]'' published the accounts of four other women who accused Simmons of inappropriate conduct, including three more alleged rapes. In response to the allegations, Simmons stated he "never had a sexual encounter that was not consensual or lawful. Ever."<ref>{{cite news|first1=Daniel|last1=Miller|first2=Amy|last2=Kaufman|url=http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-entertainment-news-updates-nypd-opens-investigation-into-russell-1513286033-htmlstory.html|title=NYPD opens investigation into Russell Simmons as more sexual assault allegations surface|newspaper=[[Los Angeles Times]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=December 14, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>

On February 9, 2018, Simmons denied the allegations to ''[[Rolling Stone]]'', saying (in part), "I vehemently deny all the allegations made against me. They have shocked me to my core as I have never been abusive or violent in any way in my relations with women. I am blessed to have shared extraordinary relationships, whether through work or love, with many great women and I have enormous respect for the women's movement worldwide and their struggle for respect, dignity, equality and power. I am devastated by any reason I may have given to anyone to say or think of me in the ways that are currently being described. I have separated myself from my businesses and charities to not become a distraction."<ref name="timeline">{{cite magazine|first=Elias|last=Leight|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/russell-simmons-sexual-assault-allegations-a-timeline-w516384|title=Russell Simmons Sexual Assault Allegations: A Timeline|magazine=[[Rolling Stone]]|publisher=Wenner Media LLC|location=New York City|date=February 9, 2018|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>

On April 25, 2018, Jennifer Jarosik, a filmmaker who also alleged Simmons raped her, dropped her lawsuit. The suit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning Jarosik cannot refile allegations in court.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/people/2018/04/25/russell-simmons-scores-win-accuser-jennifer-jarosik-drops-lawsuit/552026002/|title=Russell Simmons scores a win, accuser Jennifer Jarosik drops lawsuit|newspaper=[[USA Today]]|publisher=[[Gannett]]|location=McLean, Virginia|date=April 25, 2018|access-date=June 23, 2018|agency=[[Associated Press]]}}</ref>

===Accusers===
A number of women, some of whom were aged 17 at the time of the alleged incidents, have accused Simmons of sexual harassment, assault or rape:

====Sexual harassment or assault====
Women who said they had been sexually harassed or assaulted (including attempted rape) by Simmons include:

#Keri Claussen Khalighi, model<ref>{{cite news|first1=Daniel|last1=Miller|first2=Amy|last2=Kaufman|first3=Victoria|last3=Kim|url=http://www.latimes.com/business/hollywood/la-fi-brett-ratner-russell-simmons-20171119-htmlstory.html|title=Russell Simmons and Brett Ratner face new allegations of sexual misconduct|work=[[Los Angeles Times]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=November 19, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>
#[[Kelly Cutrone]], publicist and author<ref>{{cite web|first1=Rebecca|last1=Lewis|title=Strike actor says Harvey Weinstein 'offered sex in return for furthering career'|url=https://metro.co.uk/2017/10/16/strike-star-amber-anderson-claims-harvey-weinstein-offered-sex-in-return-for-furthering-her-career-7004835/|website=[[Metro (British newspaper)|Metro]]|publisher=[[DMG Media]]|location=London, England|date=October 16, 2017|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>
#[[Luann de Lesseps]], reality television personality<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Maria|last=Pasquini|url=http://people.com/tv/luann-de-lesseps-russell-simmons-groping-allegation/|title=Luann de Lesseps Accuses Russell Simmons of Groping Her in an Elevator: 'He Was Just a Pig'|magazine=[[People (magazine)|People]]|publisher=[[Meredith Corporation]]|location=New York City|date=April 8, 2018|access-date=April 9, 2018}}</ref>
#Lisa Kirk, an acquaintance of Simmons'<ref>{{cite web|first=Tolly|last=Wright|url= https://www.vulture.com/2017/12/five-more-women-accuse-russell-simmons-of-sexual-misconduct.html|title=5 Additional Women Accuse Russell Simmons of Sexual Misconduct and Assault|website=[[Vulture.com]]|publisher=[[New York Media]]|location=New York City|date=December 14, 2017|access-date=October 4, 2019}}</ref>
#Toni Sallie, music journalist<ref name="timeline"/>
#[[Amanda Seales]], actor and comedian (verbal harassment)<ref name="timeline"/>
#Natashia Williams-Blach, actress<ref name="timeline"/>

====Rape====
Women who said they had been raped by Simmons include:

#Tina Baker, singer-turned-lawyer<ref name="NYTproof">{{cite news |last1=Coscarelli |first1=Joe |last2=Ryzik |first2=Melena |title=Music Mogul Russell Simmons Is Accused of Rape by 3 Women |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/13/arts/music/russell-simmons-rape.html |work=New York Times |date=December 13, 2017}}</ref>
#Drew Dixon, former music recording executive<ref name="NYTproof" />
#Sherri Hines, musician<ref>{{cite magazine|first=Melody|last=Chiu|title=13 Women Total Accuse Music Producer Russell Simmons of Sexual Misconduct – Everything They've Said|url=http://people.com/music/russell-simmons-sexual-misconduct-allegations-complete-list/|magazine=[[People (magazine)|People]]|publisher=[[Meredith Corporation]]|location=New York City|date=March 26, 2018|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>
#Jennifer Jarosik, filmmaker<ref>{{cite web|first=Anastasia|last=Tsioulcas|title=Russell Simmons Publicly Accused Of Rape by a 6th Woman|url=https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2018/01/25/580629581/russell-simmons-publicly-accused-of-rape-by-a-6th-woman|publisher=[[NPR]]|location=Washington DC|date=January 25, 2018|access-date=June 23, 2018}}</ref>
#[[Jenny Lumet]], screenwriter<ref>{{cite news |last1=Marcin |first1=Tim |title=Who Is Jenny Lumet? Russell Simmons Resigns After Screenwriter Alleges Sexual Misconduct |url=https://www.newsweek.com/who-jenny-lumet-russell-simmons-resigns-screenwriter-alleges-sexual-misconduct-727306 |date=November 30, 2017}}</ref>
#[[Sil Lai Abrams]], writer and activist<ref>{{cite news |last1=Real |first1=Evan |title=Russell Simmons Accuser Sil Lai Abrams Criticizes 'Breakfast Club' for Giving Him a Platform |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/lifestyle-news/russell-simmons-accuser-slams-breakfast-club-giving-him-platform-1297880/ |date=June 10, 2020}}</ref>

===Resignation===
After the third assault allegation was published in a guest column by Jenny Lumet in ''[[The Hollywood Reporter]]'' in November 2017, Simmons stepped down from his roles in the label Def Jam Records, his yoga lifestyle brand, CNNMoney, and other media properties. Lumet, who is the daughter of filmmaker [[Sidney Lumet]] and the granddaughter of singer and civil rights activist [[Lena Horne]], wrote: "As a woman of color, I cannot express how wrenching it is to write this about a successful man of color. ... I feel a pang to protect your daughters. I don't think you are inclined to protect mine."<ref name="victor">{{Cite news |last=Victor |first=Daniel |date=November 30, 2017 |title=Russell Simmons Steps Down From Businesses After Sexual Misconduct Report |work=[[The New York Times]] |location=New York City |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/30/arts/russell-simmons-sexual-harassment.html |access-date=December 8, 2017 |issn=0362-4331}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|first=Jenny|last=Lumet|author-link=Jenny Lumet|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/writer-jenny-lumet-russell-simmons-sexually-violated-me-guest-column-1062934|title=Writer Jenny Lumet: Russell Simmons Sexually Violated Me (Guest Column)|magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|publisher=[[Eldridge Industries]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=November 30, 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|first=Chloe|last=Melas|url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/11/30/media/russell-simmons-sexual-assault-stepping-down-companies/index.html|title=Russell Simmons steps down after sexual assault allegation|work=[[CNNMoney]]|date=November 30, 2017|access-date=December 8, 2017}}</ref>

[[HBO]] decided to remove Russell Simmons' name from ''All Def Comedy'', a series he created to launch and showcase emerging comedians. HBO has not removed his name from Def Comedy Jams.<ref>{{Cite news|first=Martha|last=Ross|url=http://www.mercurynews.com/2017/11/30/russell-simmons-facing-third-assault-allegation-steps-down-from-companies/|title=HBO cuts ties with Russell Simmons after third assault allegation|newspaper=[[The Mercury News]]|publisher=[[Bay Area News Group]]|location=San Jose, California|date=November 30, 2017|access-date=December 8, 2017}}</ref>

=== Documentary ===
A documentary film about the sexual assault allegations against Simmons, ''[[On the Record (documentary)|On the Record]]'', premiered at the [[Sundance Film Festival]] on January 25, 2020, and was released on [[HBO Max]] on May 27, 2020.<ref name=":0">{{Cite magazine|url=https://variety.com/2020/film/reviews/on-the-record-review-russell-simmons-drew-dixon-1203476329/|title='On the Record': Film Review|last=Gleiberman|first=Owen|date=January 26, 2020|website=Variety|language=en|access-date=February 2, 2020}}</ref> [[Oprah Winfrey]] withdrew as executive producer of the film, after having been pressured by Simmons to cancel the release,<ref>{{cite web|last=Lattanzio|first=Ryan|date=January 17, 2020|title=Oprah Says Russell Simmons Tried to Pressure Her to Drop Sex-Abuse Doc Headed for Sundance|url=https://www.indiewire.com/2020/01/oprah-russell-simmons-documentary-sundance-1202204149/|access-date=June 5, 2020|website=[[IndieWire]]}}</ref> eventually citing there were "inconsistencies" in Drew Dixon's story that "gave me pause."<ref name=":0" /> Winfrey has also said, however, that she believes the women who have accused Russell Simmons of sexual assault.<ref>
{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/features/oprah-s-russell-simmons-doc-withdrawal-angers-accusers-activists-1271572|title= Oprah's Russell Simmons Doc Withdrawal Rattles Accusers and Angers Activists| last1=Keegan|first1=Rebecca|last2=Siegel|first2=Tatiana|magazine=[[The Hollywood Reporter]]|publisher=[[Eldridge Industries]]|location=Los Angeles, California|date=January 22, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news| url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/01/17/movies/oprah-winfrey-russell-simmons-movie.html|title=Pressured by Simmons Over Exposé, Oprah Winfrey Faced a Big Decision|last1=Sisario|first1=Ben|last2=Sperling|first2=Nicole|website=The New York Times}}</ref>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Wikiquote}}
* {{IMDb name|5432}}
* [https://www.cbsnews.com/news/russell-simmons-documentary-oprah-says-decision-to-step-away-is-not-a-victory-for-media-mogul/ Oprah's decision to step away from Russell Simmons documentary is "not a victory" for him]

{{Def Jam Recordings}}
{{Special Tony Award}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Simmons, Russell}}
[[:Category:1957 births]]
[[:Category:Living people]]
[[:Category:African-American businesspeople]]
[[:Category:African-American fashion designers]]
[[:Category:American fashion designers]]
[[:Category:African-American non-fiction writers]]
[[:Category:American businesspeople in retailing]]
[[:Category:American business writers]]
[[:Category:American chief executives]]
[[:Category:American computer businesspeople]]
[[:Category:American fashion businesspeople]]
[[:Category:American health activists]]
[[:Category:American music industry executives]]
[[:Category:Businesspeople from Queens, New York]]
[[:Category:LGBT rights activists from the United States]]
[[:Category:People from Hollis, Queens]]
[[:Category:People from Saddle River, New Jersey]]
[[:Category:Television producers from New York City]]
[[:Category:Veganism activists]]
[[:Category:Writers from Queens, New York]]
[[:Category:Activists from New York (state)]]
[[:Category:Def Jam Recordings]]
[[:Category:American expatriates in Indonesia]]
[[:Category:21st-century African-American people]]
[[:Category:20th-century African-American people]]
[[:Category:Television producers from New Jersey]]

Latest revision as of 03:31, 9 October 2024

Welcome to my own sandbox. DBrown SPS (talk) 01:15, 25 August 2015 (UTC)

Interscope Capitol Labels Group

[edit]
Interscope Capitol Labels Group
Parent companyUniversal Music Group
Founded2024 (2024)
Distributor(s)
GenreVarious
LocationSanta Monica, California, U.S.

Interscope Capitol Labels Group is a music label unit of Universal Music Group. It was formed in 2024 through Universal Music's combination of Interscope Geffen A&M Records and Capitol Music Group, alongside its variated subsidiaries and/or divisions.

Despite the two companies jointly structured under ICLG, both Interscope and Capitol maintain autonomous identities separately.[1]

History

[edit]

Formation (2024)

[edit]

In February 2024, Universal Music Group CEO Lucian Grainge and Interscope Records chairman John Janick announced the merger of Interscope Geffen A&M and Capitol Music Group to help UMG oversee coastal operations in California (Interscope Capitol). Janick was to be in charge of the company's "West Coast" operations while Republic Records co-founder Monte Lipman was to run "East Coast" operations in New York City under Republic Corps.[2]

Under staff reorganization, longtime Interscope vice chairman Steve Berman was promoted to keep his title under ICLG. Michelle Jubelirer, once the chairwoman of Capitol Music Group, departed soon after. Annie Lee was hired as the chief operational officer of the unit. Tom March, the CEO of Interscope division Geffen Records, was repromoted to chairman and CEO of ICLG. Universal Music Publishing Group executive Lilia Parsa was hired as president.[2]

Interscope/Geffen success (2024)

[edit]

Following the merger, Interscope and Geffen continued their streak of commercial success. Camila Cabello, who have joined both labels, in 2023, released her fourth studio album, C,XOXO, the following year. Other labelmates followed including Kendrick Lamar, whose single, "Not Like Us", became Interscope Capitol's first Billboard Hot 100 number one single that year. Eminem's The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce) gave the unit its first Billboard 200 number one album. The prior spring, Lil Dump, an artist under Never Broke Again, a label formed by rapper YoungBoy Never Broke Again and distributed by ICLG division label Motown, signed with NBA through a distribution deal with Interscope to release his upcoming album.

However, rapper Schoolboy Q's sixth studio album, Blue Lips, released on March 1, performed poorly, as he blamed Universal and Interscope Capitol for its underpromotion.

Capitol/Motown success (2024)

[edit]

Within the Capitol Records banner of ICLG, singer Katy Perry continued her success of 2020's Smile with her 2024 follow-up, 143. However, her labelmate, R&B musician Babyface, expressing discomfort with the company restructure, wanted off the imprint. Despite this, Motown, however, had its own dominant run with Quality Control Music and its artists Quavo, Lil Yachty, JT and Lil Baby.

Labels under Interscope Capitol Labels Group

[edit]

Interscope Geffen A&M Records

[edit]

Capitol Music Group

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Rys, Dan (March 7, 2024). "John Janick Unveils Newly Restructured Interscope Capitol Labels Group". Billboard. Retrieved October 9, 2024.
  2. ^ a b Rys, Dan (February 1, 2024). "Universal Music Group Announces Label Restructure, With Monte Lipman and John Janick as Leaders". Billboard. Retrieved October 9, 2024.

Russell Simmons (page edit prediction)

[edit]
For the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion's drummer, see Russell Simins.

Russell Simmons
Simmons at the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Mansome
Born
Russell Wendell Simmons

(1957-10-04) October 4, 1957 (age 67)
New York City, New York, United States
Occupations
Years active1984–2017 (media entertainment)
2011–present (health guru)
Spouse
​
​
(m. 1998; div. 2009)​
Children2
Relatives

Russell Wendell Simmons (born October 4, 1957) is an American entrepreneur, record executive, modern yoga guru and accused sexual predator.

In 1984, he and record producer Rick Rubin co-founded Def Jam Recordings.[1] He had since went on to create fashion lines Phat Farm, and Argyleculture. He also launched the digital content platform, All Def Digital, in 2013. A vegan and yoga supporter, Simmons launched Tantris in 2016. Simmons' net worth was estimated at $340 million in 2011.[2]

He managed to maintain his production or management roles through artists including Kurtis Blow, EPMD, Run-DMC, Whodini, Jimmy Spicer, LL Cool J and various others.

His notable books about healthy lifestyle and entrepreneurship are Success Through Stillness,[3] Do you! 12 Laws to Access The Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success,[4] The Happy Vegan,[5] Super Rich: A Guide to Having it All[6] and soon to be released Eat to Live: A Post Pandemic Lifestyle.[7] Simmons also appointed as Gushcloud Studios Co-Chairman,[8] a global entertainment production company, production studios, and talent management firm. Operating in 11 East Asian countries with key offices in Los Angeles, California.

Simmons has been living in Bali for five years. According to Simmons, Ubud, Bali looks like "yoga and vegan Disneyland". Simmons has lived life as a vegetarian for nearly 20 years. Simmons promotes a plant-based diet and a yogic lifestyle.

Early life

[edit]

On October 4, 1957, Russell Wendell Simmons was born in Jamaica, a neighborhood in Queens, a borough of New York City.[9][10][11] His father was a public school administrator and his mother was a park administrator for the New York City Parks and Recreation Department. His brothers are painter Daniel "Danny" Simmons, Jr. and rapper Joseph "Rev. Run" Simmons.

In 1975, after graduating from August Martin High School, Simmons briefly attended the City College of New York in Harlem where he met a young DJ/Bboy, Kurt Walker, who influenced him to participate in the hip hop phenomenon.[12][13][14][15][16] Upon hearing Eddie Cheeba perform in Harlem in 1977, Simmons knew that hip hop would be his career.[17] Simmons stated, "Hearing Cheeba in '77 made me feel like I had just witnessed the invention of the wheel."[17]

Career

[edit]
Simmons in 2007

Simmons co-founded Def Jam in 1984 with Rick Rubin, who sold his share of the company for $120 million to Universal Music Group in 1996. In 1985, Simmons co-produced and appeared in the film Krush Groove.[18] Simmons' company, Rush Communications Inc., includes over ten businesses and three non-profits. Simmons, with his partner Stan Lathan, has also produced television hits HBO's Def Comedy Jam and Def Poetry Jam, and currently has a development deal with HBO.[1][19] In 1996, Simmons co-produced the hit film The Nutty Professor, starring Eddie Murphy. In 1997, Simmons co-produced the film Def Jam's How to Be a Player, starring Bill Bellamy.[20] In 2003, Simmons co-founded RushCard, a prepaid debit card provider.[21][22]

In 1992, Simmons launched the clothing line Phat Fashions LLC using the Phat Farm and Baby Phat labels. When Simmons first created Phat Fashions LLC, the clothing line was sold in a shop in the SoHo district of Manhattan. Simmons's connections with well known rap artists helped to promote the clothing line to a wide audience. The influence of designers such as Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger gave the clothing line a classic look and feel. Phat Fashions encompassed hip hop clothing for women and children, as well as men, and grew into a lifestyle brand with the addition of jewelry, perfume, and other merchandise. Phat Fashions LLC sold merchandise in two stores in New York and Montreal, as well as online at www.phatfarm.com. In addition, the clothing line was carried by some 3,000 retailers in the United States.[23]

In 2004, Simmons sold Phat Farm and Baby Phat to the Kellwood Company for $140 million.[24]

Simmons and his brothers founded the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation in 1995. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide art education and support to under-serviced youth by helping people of color access the arts and by providing exhibition opportunities. The Foundation serves about 3,000 students annually and maintains two galleries. The Rush Arts Gallery in Chelsea, Manhattan and the Corridor Gallery in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn exhibit the work of more than 100 community and emerging artists.[25]

In 2014, Claremont Lincoln University awarded Simmons an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Humane Letters for his work as chairman of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding and for promoting mindfulness, compassion and interreligious collaboration in the public sphere.[26]

In October 2021, Simmons released a NFT collection titled, "Masters of Hip Hop".[27] It centered on driving forces in the hip hop music industry and was curated by Snoop Dogg.[28]

Personal life

[edit]

Marriage

[edit]

Simmons and model Kimora Lee met in November 1992. They married on December 20, 1998,[29] on the island of Saint Barthélemy. They have two children, Ming Lee (born 2000) and Aoki Lee (born 2002). In March 2006, Simmons announced that he and Lee had ended their relationship;[29] they officially divorced two years later.[30]

Beliefs

[edit]

Simmons has been a vegan since 1999, and describes himself as a Christian yogi with a love and respect for all religions.[1][31] He practices Jivamukti Yoga,[32] which encourages vegetarianism and social and environmental activism. He is also a practitioner of Transcendental Meditation (TM)[33] and a supporter of the David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness-Based Education and World Peace, which was established to ensure that any child in America who wants to learn and practice TM can do so.[34]

Social activism

[edit]

Simmons is an advocate of Ahimsa and veganism, citing animal rights along with the environmental and health benefits.[1] He said he went vegan after watching the film Diet for a New America in the 1990s.[35] He is a supporter of Farm Sanctuary, an organization working to end cruelty to farm animals.[36] People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals awarded him the 2001 PETA Humanitarian Award and the 2011 Person of the Year Award.[37][38]

In 2009, Simmons organized thousands of protestors and hip hop celebrities in front of City Hall demanding change of the harsh sentencing of the Rockefeller Drug Laws.[39]

Simmons became chairman of the board of the Foundation for Ethnic Understanding in 2002.[40] In May 2009, he was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for the UN Slavery Memorial at the United Nations to honor the victims of slavery and the transatlantic slave trade by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.[41] In a similar vein, Simmons is a supporter of the Somaly Mam Foundation,[42] and was honored at their 2011 gala dinner.[43] Simmons officially endorses the second Muslim Jewish Conference 2011. Together with Rabbi Marc Schneier he served as the official patron of the conference held July 2011 in Kyiv, Ukraine. In 2011, he took part in the Occupy Wall Street protests, visiting the protesters at Zuccotti Park often and for many consecutive days.

Simmons is a longtime supporter of gay rights, and he encourages marriage equality.[44] In 2011, when the retail corporation Lowe's withdrew funding from the show All-American Muslim, Simmons promised to pay the Learning Channel for any revenue lost.[45]

In 2012, Simmons supported Ohio congressman Dennis Kucinich's re-election campaign, appearing with the politician at various speaking events.[46] In November 2013, he pledged support for New York's mayoral candidate Bill de Blasio in recognition of his support for animal rights.[47]

In 2017, Simmons was listed by UK-based company Richtopia at number 23 in the list of 200 Most Influential Social-Entrepreneurs and Philanthropists Worldwide.[48][49]

Vegan burgers

[edit]

Simmons is a senior advisor of the vegan burger brand Everything Legendary. The company closed a $6 million series A round in 2022.[50]

Harriet Tubman sex tape controversy

[edit]

In August 2013, Simmons launched the controversial "Harriet Tubman Sex Tape" parody video on his YouTube channel, All Def Digital, which led to public outrage and many critics demanding an apology. The video featured an actress portraying the abolitionist Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) having sex with her slave owner with the intent of filming the act and blackmailing him to convince him to work on the Underground Railroad.[51] People from his own community, such as filmmaker Spike Lee,[52] were offended by the controversial comedy sketch.[53]

Rolling Stone published Simmons' apology for the parody in which he said:


Despite his apology in 2013, the nature of shareable digital media has allowed the comedy video to continue to circulate on YouTube and around the web.[55]

Sexual misconduct, assault and rape allegations

[edit]
See also: Weinstein effect

Background

[edit]

In November 2017, model Keri Claussen Khalighi accused Simmons of raping her in 1991, when she was 17. Simmons and Brett Ratner, whom Khalighi accused of watching them without intervening when she asked for his help, both deny that the encounter was non-consensual.[56]

As the allegation was covered in the press, Terry Crews accused Simmons of attempting to influence him to take back sexual assault allegations that Crews had recently brought up against film executive Adam Venit, asking that Crews "give him a pass ... ask that he be reinstated." Crews posted on his Twitter account a screenshot of the alleged e-mail he had received from Simmons.[57][58][59][60]

On November 30, 2017, writer Jenny Lumet claimed that Simmons had raped her in 1991. In response, Simmons said he would step down from his positions with his businesses.[61] On the same day, HBO announced that they would be removing Simmons' name and likeness from his stand-up comedy specials starting with the December 1 episode.

On December 13, 2017, The Los Angeles Times published an investigative report in which five women accused Simmons of sexual misconduct, including another alleged rape. On the same day, The New York Times published the accounts of four other women who accused Simmons of inappropriate conduct, including three more alleged rapes. In response to the allegations, Simmons stated he "never had a sexual encounter that was not consensual or lawful. Ever."[62]

On February 9, 2018, Simmons denied the allegations to Rolling Stone, saying (in part), "I vehemently deny all the allegations made against me. They have shocked me to my core as I have never been abusive or violent in any way in my relations with women. I am blessed to have shared extraordinary relationships, whether through work or love, with many great women and I have enormous respect for the women's movement worldwide and their struggle for respect, dignity, equality and power. I am devastated by any reason I may have given to anyone to say or think of me in the ways that are currently being described. I have separated myself from my businesses and charities to not become a distraction."[63]

On April 25, 2018, Jennifer Jarosik, a filmmaker who also alleged Simmons raped her, dropped her lawsuit. The suit was dismissed with prejudice, meaning Jarosik cannot refile allegations in court.[64]

Accusers

[edit]

A number of women, some of whom were aged 17 at the time of the alleged incidents, have accused Simmons of sexual harassment, assault or rape:

Sexual harassment or assault

[edit]

Women who said they had been sexually harassed or assaulted (including attempted rape) by Simmons include:

  1. Keri Claussen Khalighi, model[65]
  2. Kelly Cutrone, publicist and author[66]
  3. Luann de Lesseps, reality television personality[67]
  4. Lisa Kirk, an acquaintance of Simmons'[68]
  5. Toni Sallie, music journalist[63]
  6. Amanda Seales, actor and comedian (verbal harassment)[63]
  7. Natashia Williams-Blach, actress[63]

Rape

[edit]

Women who said they had been raped by Simmons include:

  1. Tina Baker, singer-turned-lawyer[69]
  2. Drew Dixon, former music recording executive[69]
  3. Sherri Hines, musician[70]
  4. Jennifer Jarosik, filmmaker[71]
  5. Jenny Lumet, screenwriter[72]
  6. Sil Lai Abrams, writer and activist[73]

Resignation

[edit]

After the third assault allegation was published in a guest column by Jenny Lumet in The Hollywood Reporter in November 2017, Simmons stepped down from his roles in the label Def Jam Records, his yoga lifestyle brand, CNNMoney, and other media properties. Lumet, who is the daughter of filmmaker Sidney Lumet and the granddaughter of singer and civil rights activist Lena Horne, wrote: "As a woman of color, I cannot express how wrenching it is to write this about a successful man of color. ... I feel a pang to protect your daughters. I don't think you are inclined to protect mine."[74][75][76]

HBO decided to remove Russell Simmons' name from All Def Comedy, a series he created to launch and showcase emerging comedians. HBO has not removed his name from Def Comedy Jams.[77]

Documentary

[edit]

A documentary film about the sexual assault allegations against Simmons, On the Record, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 25, 2020, and was released on HBO Max on May 27, 2020.[78] Oprah Winfrey withdrew as executive producer of the film, after having been pressured by Simmons to cancel the release,[79] eventually citing there were "inconsistencies" in Drew Dixon's story that "gave me pause."[78] Winfrey has also said, however, that she believes the women who have accused Russell Simmons of sexual assault.[80][81]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d Aquino, Joann Natalia (February 20, 2011). "Russell Simmons, 'godfather of hip hop,' comes to Seattle: Part of 20-city author tour". Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Retrieved February 3, 2012.
  2. ^ Padgett, Tania (April 26, 2011). "Russell Simmons: Getting rich is so simple". CNN. Archived from the original on April 29, 2011. Retrieved March 22, 2021.
  3. ^ "Success Through Stillness". www.goodreads.com. Retrieved May 30, 2022.
  4. ^ Noble, Barnes &. "Do You!: 12 Laws to Access the Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success|Paperback". Barnes & Noble. Retrieved May 30, 2022.
  5. ^ "The Happy Vegan". Retrieved May 30, 2022.
  6. ^ Simmons, Russell; Morrow, Chris (January 2011). Super Rich Guide Having All. ISBN 978-1592405879.
  7. ^ Inc, Mocha Media (October 12, 2020). "Mocha Media Inc. Launches its New Publishing Division with the Announcement of EAT TO LIVE: A POST PANDEMIC LIFESTYLE by Four Time New York Times Best Seller Russell Simmons". Send2Press Newswire. Retrieved May 30, 2022. {{cite web}}: |last= has generic name (help)
  8. ^ "Russell Simmons propels Gushcloud presence in LA, hunts under represented talent". www.marketing-interactive.com. Retrieved May 30, 2022.
  9. ^ "Russell Simmons's Biography". The HistoryMakers. Retrieved September 9, 2022.
  10. ^ Huey, Steve. "Russell Simmons Biography". AllMusic. Retrieved February 25, 2016.
  11. ^ Rose, Naeisha (December 8, 2017). "Hollis icon Russell Simmons resigns from business after sexual misconduct accusations". QNS.com. Retrieved February 20, 2019.
  12. ^ "Russell Simmons: Athletes leading our cultural awakening". Washington Blade. Washington DC: Window Media LLC. August 29, 2013. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  13. ^ Golus, Carrie (2012). Russell Simmons: From Def Jam to Super Rich. Minneapolis, Minnesota: Twenty-first Century Books. ISBN 978-0761381570.
  14. ^ Fetterman, Mindy (May 23, 2007). "Today's Entrepreneur: Russell Simmons can't slow down". USA Today. Mclean, Virginia. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  15. ^ "Executive Profile: Russell Simmons", Bloomberg BusinessWeek. Retrieved December 16, 2017.
  16. ^ Rachel Kranz, "Simmons, Russell", in African-American Business Leaders and Entrepreneurs, Facts On File, 2004, p. 252.
  17. ^ a b Carrie Golus (January 1, 2012). Russell Simmons: From Def Jam to Super Rich. Twenty-First Century Books. p. 21. ISBN 978-0-7613-8157-0.
  18. ^ "Krush Groove (1985) : Full Cast & Crew". IMDb. Retrieved February 1, 2016.
  19. ^ Neate, Patrick (July 12, 2011). "Def Jam Records launched by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin". The Guardian. London, England. Retrieved February 1, 2016.
  20. ^ Simmons, Russell; George, Nelson (2001). Life and Def: Sex, Drugs, Money, and God. New York City: Random House. ISBN 0609606077.
  21. ^ Introduction: About Us. "RushCard Prepaid Visa Card". Retrieved March 4, 2017. {{cite news}}: |author= has generic name (help)
  22. ^ Toh, Michelle (August 29, 2016). "Russell Simmons' Prepaid Debit Card Is Adding New Security Features". Fortune Magazine. New York City: Meredith Corporation. Retrieved March 4, 2017.
  23. ^ "History of Phat Fashions LLC – FundingUniverse". fundinguniverse.com.
  24. ^ Porter, Nia (January 11, 2016). "Where Did These Hip-Hop Clothing Labels Go?". Racked.
  25. ^ "About Us". Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation.
  26. ^ Wes Woods, "Russell Simmons keynote speaker for Claremont Lincoln University", Inland Valley Daily Bulletin, May 18, 2014.
  27. ^ "Russell Simmons Launches NFT 'Masterminds of Hip Hop' Collection to Help Artists Earn Cash". Black Enterprise. August 10, 2021. Retrieved May 30, 2022.
  28. ^ Mozée, Carla. "Music mogul Russell Simmons is diving into NFTs with a 'Masterminds of Hip Hop' project curated with Snoop Dogg". Business Insider. Retrieved October 7, 2021.
  29. ^ a b Silverman, Stephen M. (March 31, 2006). "Russell, Kimora Lee Simmons Split". People. New York City: Meredith Corporation. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  30. ^ "Kimora Lee Files for Divorce from Russell Simmons". People. New York City: Meredith Corporation. March 26, 2008. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  31. ^ "Russell Simmons on his vegan diet, Obama and yoga" at Youtube.
  32. ^ Marikar, Sheila (November 16, 2016). "Russell Simmons, the Yoga King of Los Angeles". The New York Times. New York City. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  33. ^ Valiente, Alexa (April 26, 2017). "Russell Simmons on how meditation changed his life, his relationship with Donald Trump". ABC News. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  34. ^ Simmons, Russell (February 24, 2010). "Why I meditate". HuffPost. New York City: Huffington Post Media Group. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  35. ^ "The Happy Vegan: Mogul Russell Simmons on How His Lifestyle Fuels His Success". Forks Over Knives. January 25, 2016. Retrieved August 22, 2020.
  36. ^ "Thanksgiving getting a remake courtesy of Russell Simmons". USA Today. November 13, 2009.
  37. ^ Cookie Lommell, Russell Simmons Infobase Publishing 2007.
  38. ^ Calvin Stovall, "Russell Simmons Honored by PETA", BET, December 19, 2011.
  39. ^ AbduSalaam, Ismael (March 25, 2009). "Russell Simmons Leads NY Protest Against Rockefeller Drug Laws". allhiphop.com. Retrieved June 19, 2017.
  40. ^ Ramirez, Anthony (April 13, 2008). "Backstage With Six Rabbis, Six Imams and No 'Kumbaya'". The New York Times. Retrieved June 3, 2013.
  41. ^ "Secretary-General pledges to fill gap in knowledge about causes, effects of transatlantic slave trade". United Nations.
  42. ^ "Russell Simmons Got A Joyful Hamptons' Social Life, Hosts Somaly Mam Foundation Benefit". Global Grind. August 15, 2011. Retrieved August 15, 2011.
  43. ^ "2011 East Coast Gala". Somaly Mam Foundation. Retrieved September 19, 2011.
  44. ^ "Russell Simmons, gay marriage and Maryland". The Washington Post.
  45. ^ Samuel G. Freedman (December 16, 2011). "Waging a One-Man War on American Muslims". The New York Times.
  46. ^ "Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons to appear with Kucinich". Toledo Blade.
  47. ^ "proud to support @deBlasioNYC to be NYC's next mayor as I know he supports animal rights and will stop abuse of the horses in Central Park", Monday, November 1, 2013.
  48. ^ "Philanthropists & Social Entrepreneurs Top 200: From Elon Musk to Melinda Gates, These Are the Most Influential Do-Gooders in the World". Richtopia. Archived from the original on March 30, 2017. Retrieved March 30, 2017.
  49. ^ "200 most influential philanthropists in the world". Naij. March 31, 2017. Retrieved March 31, 2017.
  50. ^ Axworthy, Nicole. "How This Black-Owned Vegan Burger Brand Nearly Quadrupled Its Reach in One Year". VegNews.com. Retrieved May 31, 2022.
  51. ^ "Russell Simmons and the Harriet Tubman Sex Tape". The Young Turks. San Bruno, California. August 15, 2013. Archived from the original on December 21, 2021. Retrieved December 8, 2017 – via YouTube.
  52. ^ Robinson, Melia (August 15, 2013). "Spike Lee Slams Russell Simmons For Producing Mock Harriet Tubman Sex Tape". Business Insider. New York City: Axel Springer SE. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  53. ^ Foster, Kimberly (August 16, 2013). "Russell Simmons, you defamed not just Harriet Tubman but all black women". The Guardian.
  54. ^ Cubarrubia, RJ (August 15, 2013). "Russell Simmons Apologizes for Harriet Tubman 'Sex Tape'". Rolling Stone. Wenner Media LLC. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  55. ^ StraightFromTheA1 (YouTube) (August 15, 2013). "Harriet Tubman Sex Tape Controversy (Funny? Or Disrespectful?)". Archived from the original on December 21, 2021. Retrieved December 8, 2017 – via YouTube.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  56. ^ Beaumont-Thomas, Ben (November 20, 2017). "Russell Simmons accused of sexual assault alongside Brett Ratner". The Guardian. London, England. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  57. ^ Kelley, Soniya (November 19, 2017). "Terry Crews says Russell Simmons asked him to give target of sexual-assault allegations 'a pass'". Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, California. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  58. ^ Mumford, Gwilym (October 11, 2017). "Actor Terry Crews: I was sexually assaulted by Hollywood executive". The Guardian. London, England. ISSN 0261-3077. Retrieved November 29, 2017.
  59. ^ "Brooklyn Nine-Nine actor claims groping". bbc.co.uk. London, England: BBC News. October 11, 2017. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  60. ^ Perez, Lexy (November 15, 2017). "Terry Crews Details Alleged Sexual Assault by WME's Adam Venit". The Hollywood Reporter. Los Angeles, California: Valence Media. Retrieved November 16, 2017.
  61. ^ Lumet, Jenny (November 30, 2017). "Writer Jenny Lumet: Russell Simmons Sexually Violated Me (Guest Column)". The Hollywood Reporter. Los Angeles, California: Valence Media. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  62. ^ Miller, Daniel; Kaufman, Amy (December 14, 2017). "NYPD opens investigation into Russell Simmons as more sexual assault allegations surface". Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, California. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  63. ^ a b c d Leight, Elias (February 9, 2018). "Russell Simmons Sexual Assault Allegations: A Timeline". Rolling Stone. New York City: Wenner Media LLC. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  64. ^ "Russell Simmons scores a win, accuser Jennifer Jarosik drops lawsuit". USA Today. McLean, Virginia: Gannett. Associated Press. April 25, 2018. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  65. ^ Miller, Daniel; Kaufman, Amy; Kim, Victoria (November 19, 2017). "Russell Simmons and Brett Ratner face new allegations of sexual misconduct". Los Angeles Times. Los Angeles, California. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  66. ^ Lewis, Rebecca (October 16, 2017). "Strike actor says Harvey Weinstein 'offered sex in return for furthering career'". Metro. London, England: DMG Media. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  67. ^ Pasquini, Maria (April 8, 2018). "Luann de Lesseps Accuses Russell Simmons of Groping Her in an Elevator: 'He Was Just a Pig'". People. New York City: Meredith Corporation. Retrieved April 9, 2018.
  68. ^ Wright, Tolly (December 14, 2017). "5 Additional Women Accuse Russell Simmons of Sexual Misconduct and Assault". Vulture.com. New York City: New York Media. Retrieved October 4, 2019.
  69. ^ a b Coscarelli, Joe; Ryzik, Melena (December 13, 2017). "Music Mogul Russell Simmons Is Accused of Rape by 3 Women". New York Times.
  70. ^ Chiu, Melody (March 26, 2018). "13 Women Total Accuse Music Producer Russell Simmons of Sexual Misconduct – Everything They've Said". People. New York City: Meredith Corporation. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  71. ^ Tsioulcas, Anastasia (January 25, 2018). "Russell Simmons Publicly Accused Of Rape by a 6th Woman". Washington DC: NPR. Retrieved June 23, 2018.
  72. ^ Marcin, Tim (November 30, 2017). "Who Is Jenny Lumet? Russell Simmons Resigns After Screenwriter Alleges Sexual Misconduct".
  73. ^ Real, Evan (June 10, 2020). "Russell Simmons Accuser Sil Lai Abrams Criticizes 'Breakfast Club' for Giving Him a Platform".
  74. ^ Victor, Daniel (November 30, 2017). "Russell Simmons Steps Down From Businesses After Sexual Misconduct Report". The New York Times. New York City. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  75. ^ Lumet, Jenny (November 30, 2017). "Writer Jenny Lumet: Russell Simmons Sexually Violated Me (Guest Column)". The Hollywood Reporter. Los Angeles, California: Eldridge Industries.
  76. ^ Melas, Chloe (November 30, 2017). "Russell Simmons steps down after sexual assault allegation". CNNMoney. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  77. ^ Ross, Martha (November 30, 2017). "HBO cuts ties with Russell Simmons after third assault allegation". The Mercury News. San Jose, California: Bay Area News Group. Retrieved December 8, 2017.
  78. ^ a b Gleiberman, Owen (January 26, 2020). "'On the Record': Film Review". Variety. Retrieved February 2, 2020.
  79. ^ Lattanzio, Ryan (January 17, 2020). "Oprah Says Russell Simmons Tried to Pressure Her to Drop Sex-Abuse Doc Headed for Sundance". IndieWire. Retrieved June 5, 2020.
  80. ^ Keegan, Rebecca; Siegel, Tatiana (January 22, 2020). "Oprah's Russell Simmons Doc Withdrawal Rattles Accusers and Angers Activists". The Hollywood Reporter. Los Angeles, California: Eldridge Industries.
  81. ^ Sisario, Ben; Sperling, Nicole. "Pressured by Simmons Over Exposé, Oprah Winfrey Faced a Big Decision". The New York Times.
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