Fat Joe

Born August 19th, 1970 in the Bronx area of New York City, Fat Joe was heavily influenced by the Zulu Nation culture (and parties) as a youth. His brother, Angel, would bring home tapesof the music played at these events, and the original sounds piqued the interest of young Joe.

As he got older, he became involved in the whole hip-hop culture, taking a liking to not only rap, but graffiti art and breakdancing as well. Fat Joe joined a tight-knit team of South Bronx natives, who were heavily involved in the drug trade. It was here that his name "Joey Crack" came about. However, returning to his younger roots, Fat Joe discovered in time that his true love was indeed music.

2001's Jealous One's Still Envy (J.O.S.E.) became a platinum-selling album, and featured the most played single in Atlantic Record's history: "What's Luv," performed alongside R&B's new queen, Ashanti. The rest of the album was replete with rap all-stars, including Busta Rhymes and Ludacris.

To ride the wave of hits, Joe worked quickly to release his fifth album, Loyalty, in 2002. It showed an honest, original and creative side, including one of rap's first real love songs, dedicated to Joe's wife.

When not touring or promoting his latest album, Fat Joe connects with the community in the Bronx. He owns a barbershop, a clothing store called Fat Joe's Halftime, and runs a fashion line, FJ560. He employs his friends form the 'hood and keeps them on track, by helping them earn honest livings.