BIOGRAPHY
Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith on January 17, 1971, is an American rapper, producer, DJ, and entrepreneur. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Lil Jon is widely recognized for his contributions to Southern hip-hop, particularly in the crunk subgenre. His energetic production style and distinctive vocal exclamations have made him a prominent figure in the music industry.
Lil Jon initially gained attention as part of the hip-hop group Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz, which he formed in the late 1990s. The group's debut album, "Get Crunk, Who U Wit: Da Album," was released in 1997 and marked the beginning of Lil Jon's impact on the crunk movement. The album featured hits like "Who U Wit?" and "Shawty Freak a Lil' Sumthin'."
In the early 2000s, Lil Jon's solo career reached new heights with the release of the album "Kings of Crunk" (2002), which included chart-topping singles such as "Get Low." The song's success not only solidified Lil Jon's status as a crunk pioneer but also propelled him into mainstream recognition.
Lil Jon's distinctive voice and catchphrases, such as "Yeah!" and "What? Okay!," became iconic elements in his music. He became a sought-after collaborator, working with artists across various genres, including Usher ("Yeah!"), Ludacris ("Lovers and Friends"), and DJ Snake ("Turn Down for What").
In addition to his music career, Lil Jon has been involved in various business ventures, including his own record label and ventures in the beverage industry. He has also appeared in television shows and films, showcasing his diverse interests and talents.