Russell Simmons is a hip-hop pioneer and entertainment mogul, who is the co-founder of Def Jam Recordings. Born and raised in Queens, New York, Simmons is the brother of legendary Run DMC rapper Joseph ‘Run’ Simmons. He has built a media and entertainment empire that includes creating the 1990s Def Comedy Jam series, which featured the talents of comedy greats like Martin Lawrence, Dave Chappelle and the late Bernie Mac. His business interests stretch even further including the fashion label Phat Farm and prepaid credit cards. A yoga lover, Simmons is also the author of several books, including ‘Success Through Stillness: Meditation Made Simple,’ ‘The Happy Vegan: A Guide To Living A Long, Healthy and Successful Life’ and ‘Super Rich: A Guide To Having It All.’ From 1998 until 2009 he was married to former model, Kimora Lee Simmons, with whom he has two daughters – Ming Lee and Aoki Lee.
