American DJ, producer and rapper, Lil Jon, has embraced Islam. Jonathan H. Smith who goes by the stage, Lil Jon, joins the list of recent American celebrities that have accepted Islam.
On Friday, the Salt Shaker rapper converted to Islam at the King Fahad Mosque in Los Angeles. A video clip of the rapper pronouncing Shahadah with the help of an Islamic scholar surfaced the social media platforms.
Lil Jon’s Career
Lil Jon, widely recognized by his stage name Lil Jon, epitomizes the nexus of audacious lyricism and pulsating beats within the realm of contemporary rap music. Renowned for his commanding presence and distinctive vocal delivery, Lil Jon pioneered the genre-defining subculture of “crunk,” characterized by its high-energy rhythms and unabashed lyrical content. His seminal works, such as the iconic anthem Get Low and the infectious party anthem Turn Down for What, stand as testament to his enduring influence on the landscape of popular music.
Moreover, Lil Jon’s impact transcends the confines of the recording studio, permeating into the fabric of Hollywood’s music scene through his collaborations with esteemed artists and his forays into film soundtracks. His signature ad-libs and production prowess have solidified his status as a cultural luminary, etching an indelible mark on the tapestry of contemporary music.
Lil Jon’s Discography
Lil Jon’s discography boasts an array of chart-topping hits that have resonated with audiences worldwide. Among his most famous songs is the electrifying anthem Get Low, which captivated listeners with its infectious beat and catchy hooks.
Additionally, Turn Down for What emerged as a cultural phenomenon, igniting dance floors and becoming an anthem for celebration and revelry. The collaborative track Yeah! with Usher and Ludacris further showcased Lil Jon’s versatility and ability to craft infectious melodies.
Furthermore, Snap Yo Fingers and Get Crunk stand as quintessential examples of his prowess in crafting pulsating club bangers that command attention and incite movement. Collectively, these songs underscore Lil Jon’s enduring impact on the landscape of contemporary music, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in the realm of rap and hip-hop.
Lil Jon and Other Celebrities Accepting Islam
Jon’s acceptance follows American writer and activist Shaun King and his wife, who embraced Islam and were motivated by the strength of people of Gaza.
But Shaun and Jonathan aren’t the only ones: Clarence Seedorf, Andrew Tate, Kevin Lee, Gervonta Davis, Thomas Partey are some of the most well-known faces of the entertainment industry that accepted Islam.
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Lil Jon’s Album and Motivation
Lately, Lil Jon has been focusing on mediation to the point where he decided to put out an album featuring his tricks and mantras that helped him through and through. In a conversation with NPR‘s Ayesha Rascoe on Weekend Edition Sunday, Lil Jon discussed various aspects of his life and music — from maturing in music to focusing on health and finding a balance, he spilled all.
Lil Jon’s Meditation Motivation
When Rascoe asked whether it was anxiety that prompted him to dive into the world of mediation, Lil Jon responded positively.
“It was anxiety and a little stress from a lot hitting me at the same time. Turning 50, looking at my life, looking at my marriage and a lot of things, and trying to move on and get through those things. I would meditate before I go on stage, or take little breaths or just take some time for myself. But I found at this particular point in my life, I really need to go into it a little deeper. And so I would I would meditate every day and I would say my affirmations every day, and all of that would quiet me — calm those crazy thoughts and emotions that I would have, and give me some peace,” he reportedly said.
In response to another question surrounding his daily DJ-ing on and cutting down on drinking and how does you he balance all that, Lil Jom said, “You have to look at the club as a release. Some people need to be in social settings around others. Some people need to be with their friends and family. Music is therapeutic as well. Dancing is therapeutic as well. It’s good for the soul, good for the mind. So it works out for me, you know — I can still do it. And I’m spreading good energy to people: I’m giving them good times, with the meditation and with the club.”
“What is the hardest part of meditation for you?” Rascoe asked.
“I think the hardest part for anybody is to disconnect from the Matrix. It was always hard for me to really formally meditate, because I’m always thinking in the future. But you learn that you can take a pause, and then when you come back, you’re more level-headed. Your mind is clear. Your creative process is sparked even more, because you took a break,” he replied.
