Jonathan H. Smith, known as Lil Jon, is an American rapper, DJ, and record producer born January 17, 1972. A key figure in the rise of crunk music in the early 2000s, he led the group Lil Jon & the East Side Boyz and produced hits for artists like Pitbull and Usher.
Lil Jon’s notable productions include “Yeah!” and “Turn Down for What,” which earned him a Grammy and an octuple platinum certification. His 2013 single with DJ Snake, “Turn Down for What,” won the Billboard Music Award for Top Dance/Electronic Song.
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Lil Jon Net Worth
Lil Jon has a net worth of $30 million. In October 2005, he purchased a 4,348-square-foot home in Alpharetta, a suburb of Atlanta, for $1,225,000. The property features four bedrooms and six bathrooms.
Early life
Jonathan H. Smith, born in Atlanta, Georgia, was raised in a middle-class neighborhood as the eldest of five. His father was an aerospace engineer and military veteran, while his mother worked in the military medical field. Smith attended Beecher Hills Elementary and Southwest Middle School, showing early academic promise and independence.
He became friends with Robert McDowell, DJ Dwayne “Emperor” Searcy, and music lawyer Vince Phillips. At 15, Smith taught himself to DJ, hosting popular basement parties and spinning at local clubs, eventually becoming an in-house DJ at Phoenix, where he met notable artists.
Career
Jermaine Dupri hired Lil Jon at So So Def Recordings, where he worked from 1993 to 2000. In 1996, Lil Jon formed Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, creating the crunk subgenre with their single “Who U Wit?” Their debut album, Get Crunk, Who U Wit: Da Album, was released in 1997, featuring singles like “Shawty Freak a Lil Sumthin.”
The group continued with We Still Crunk! in 2000 and Kings of Crunk in 2002. Lil Jon’s solo work includes Crunk Rock (2010) and hits like “Yeah!” and “Turn Down for What” (2013). He also has interests in energy drinks, sunglasses, and wine.
Personal life
Jermaine Dupri hired Lil Jon at So So Def Recordings, where he worked from 1993 to 2000. In 1996, Lil Jon formed Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, pioneering the crunk genre with “Who U Wit?” Their debut album, Get Crunk, Who U Wit: Da Album, came out in 1997, featuring hits like “Shawty Freak a Lil Sumthin.”
The group released We Still Crunk! in 2000 and Kings of Crunk in 2002. Lil Jon’s solo work includes Crunk Rock (2010) and hits like “Yeah!” and “Turn Down for What” (2013). He also ventures into energy drinks, sunglasses, and wine.
Who is the woman on Lil Jon Wants to Do What?
Anitra Mecadon is Lil Jon’s renovation partner on Lil Jon Wants to Do What? Known as a design maximalist and renovation enthusiast, Anitra has appeared on shows like Who Stole the Electric Car?, All American Handyman, and the DIY Network’s Mega Dens. She has also been featured on Behind the Build: HGTV Dream Home.
Conclusion
Lil Jon’s journey from Atlanta’s suburbs to the pinnacle of the hip-hop industry is a testament to his talent, determination, and business acumen. His net worth of $30 Million mirrors not just his musical success but his ventures outside of the studio, making him one of the richest figures in crunk music.
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FAQs about Lil Jon Net Worth
- How did Lil Jon amass his fortune?
- Through his music career, brand endorsements, and various business ventures like his energy drink and sunglasses line.
- Is Lil Jon still active in the music industry?
- Yes, besides his classics, he still writes songs, some specifically for TV and feature films.
- What are some notable awards Lil Jon has received?
- He’s been recognized with numerous accolades, including a Grammy Award for “Yeah!”.
- Are there any other interests Lil Jon is known for?
- He’s a supporter of education, especially in underdeveloped countries, and has helped fund schools in Ghana. He’s also a sports enthusiast and supports various teams, including the NHL’s Las Vegas Golden Knights.
- Has Lil Jon faced any controversies?
- In 2019, he was detained in a Vietnamese airport due to the vast amount of jewelry he was wearing. However, the situation was resolved quickly with the intervention of the U.S. Embassy.
