Benzino, also known as Raymond Scott, is an American rapper, record producer, and TV personality. He is best known for his appearances on VH1’s reality series Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta, and for being the co-founder of The Source magazine. In this article, we will take a closer look at his life and career, including his early years, family, relationships, music, and net worth.
| Quick Biography | |
|---|---|
| Full Names | Raymond Leon Scott |
| Parents | Edward DeJesus, Mary Scott |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 5′ 3″ |
| Born | 1965 (age 57 years), Boston, MA |
| Occupation | Deer Park High School, Pace University |
| Children | Coi Leray, Taj Collins |
| Stage name | Ray Benzino |
Early Years and Family
Benzino was born Raymond Scott on July 18, 1965, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was raised by his mother, Mary Scott, and his father, who was a well-known jazz musician named Lewis Scott. He has three brothers, including one who is also a rapper, and a sister.
Benzino attended Boston College High School, where he was an honor student and played on the school’s football team. He later attended Northeastern University, where he studied criminal justice.
Career in Music
In the late 1980s, Benzino began his career in music as a member of the rap group Almighty RSO. The group gained popularity with their debut album, “Revenge of da Badd Boyz,” which was released in 1994. The album’s success led to a record deal with Tommy Boy Records.
In 1999, Benzino co-founded The Source magazine, which became one of the most influential hip-hop publications of all time. The magazine was known for its coverage of the hip-hop culture, including music, fashion, and social issues. Benzino served as the magazine’s co-owner and chief executive officer for several years.
Benzino’s music career continued alongside his work at The Source. He released his debut solo album, “The Benzino Project,” in 2001, which included collaborations with various hip-hop artists such as Scarface, P. Diddy, and Lisa Raye. He has since released several other albums, including “Arch Nemesis” (2005) and “The Antidote” (2007).
Relationships and Family Life
Benzino has been in several high-profile relationships throughout his career. In the early 2000s, he was in a relationship with Karlie Redd, who later became his co-star on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. The couple’s tumultuous relationship played out on the show, with Benzino proposing to Karlie on camera during the third season.
In 2014, Benzino married Althea Heart, another cast member of Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta. The couple welcomed a son named Zino Antonio Scott later that year. However, their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 2015.
In 2020, Benzino was in the news again after his former fiancée, model and actress Claudia Jordan, accused him of physically abusing her during their relationship.
Height
Benzino is 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm) tall.
Eminem and Shot
Benzino has had a long-standing feud with fellow rapper Eminem, which began in the early 2000s. Benzino accused Eminem of being a cultural appropriator and criticized his lyrics for being racist and misogynistic. Eminem responded with several diss tracks, including “The Sauce” and “Nail in the Coffin.”
In 2002, Benzino was shot while attending his mother’s funeral procession in Boston. He was hit in the arm but survived the attack. The incident was believed to be related to his ongoing feud with Eminem.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Benzino’s net worth is estimated to be around $10 million according to Forbes.
His main source of income is his career in the music industry, both as a rapper and producer. He has also made money through his appearances on reality TV shows and his ownership of a hip hop magazine.
Controversies
Benzino has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. In 2002, he and fellow rapper Ja Rule were arrested and charged with assault and battery for attacking a man in Boston. Benzino was also arrested in 2017 for drug possession.
One of the most notable controversies involving Benzino was his feud with rapper Eminem. The two had a long-standing beef, with Benzino accusing Eminem of being a cultural appropriator and disrespecting the black community. Eminem responded with several diss tracks aimed at Benzino, which only escalated the feud.
In 2003, Benzino released a diss track called “I Wanna Be Down” aimed at Eminem and his labelmate, Dr. Dre. The song was widely criticized for its homophobic lyrics, which led to Benzino being labeled as homophobic by many in the hip hop community.
Personal Life
Benzino has been married twice. He was previously married to Althea Heart, with whom he has a son named Zino Antonio Scott Jr. The couple also starred on the reality TV show “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta.” Benzino later married model and actress Denise Bidot, but the two have since separated.
In March 2021, Benzino was shot while attending his mother’s funeral in Massachusetts. He sustained non-life-threatening injuries and has since recovered.
Conclusion
Benzino is a rapper and producer who has had a successful career in the hip hop industry. Despite his controversies and feuds with other rappers, he has remained a prominent figure in the genre. With a net worth of $10 million, he has proven to be a savvy businessman as well.