Russell Simmons

Russell Wendell Simmons (born October 4, 1957) is an American entrepreneur, writer, and record executive. He is best known for co-founding the hip-hop label Def Jam Recordings and creating clothing fashion lines such as Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and Tantris. Simmons has had a successful career in the music industry, producing or managing artists such as Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, Whodini, and Jimmy Spicer. As chairman of Def Jam, he signed acts like the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, LL Cool J, Jay-Z, DMX, and Kanye West. Simmons also produced the Def Comedy Jam television program from 1992 to 1997. In addition, he has become an advocate for veganism and a yoga lifestyle, promoting healthy living through his books on entrepreneurship and healthy lifestyle. Simmons' net worth was estimated at $340 million in 2011.