Joshua Howard Luellen, better known by his stage name Southside, is a Grammy Award-winning American record producer, songwriter, and rapper who has shaped the sound of contemporary hip-hop.
Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Southside’s rise from the city’s Southside to the top of the charts is a testament to his raw talent, relentless work ethic, and unwavering passion for music.
His signature dark, atmospheric beats and heavy 808s, pioneered through his production collective 808 Mafia, have become synonymous with chart-topping hits like “Black Beatles,” “Bad and Boujee,” and “Humble.”
He has produced for some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Drake, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and Future, earning him a Grammy Award for his work on Kanye West’s “Yeezus” album.
Southside’s influence extends beyond music. He is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, dedicated to giving back to the Atlanta community that nurtured his talent.
His story is an inspiration to aspiring musicians and a reminder that with dedication and passion, anything is possible.
Joshua Howard Luellen (Southside)
| Net Worth | Estimated $40 million |
|---|---|
| Name | Joshua Howard Luellen |
| Also known as | Southside, Sizzle, Young Sizzle, Southside on the Track, 808MafiaBoss |
| Gender | Male |
| Career | Record producer, songwriter, rapper |
| Profession | Music producer |
| Date of birth | February 2, 1989 |
| Age | 34 years old |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Hair color | Brown |
| Height | Approximately 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Mother | Masaba Tyson |
| Siblings | one brother |
| Husband/Wife | Not publicly disclosed |
| Children | Two daughters |
| Zodiac sign | Aquarius |
From Southside Atlanta to the Top of the Charts: The Story of Joshua Howard Luellen, aka Southside
A Beat Born in the Bricks
Joshua Howard Luellen, better known by his stage name Southside, wasn’t born with a silver spoon, but he was born with rhythm in his blood. Hailing from the Southside of Atlanta, Georgia, a neighborhood known for its rich musical heritage and occasional struggles, Luellen’s story is one of talent, hustle, and an unwavering passion for the beat.
Born on February 2nd, 1989, Luellen’s early life was shaped by the sights and sounds of his vibrant community. His mother, Masaba Tyson, instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for music, while the streets provided a constant soundtrack of hip-hop and trap, genres that would later become his playground.
Formal education wasn’t Luellen’s forte. He found his solace and expression in the world of music production, tinkering with keyboards and drum machines in his makeshift basement studio. Hours were spent lost in experimentation, crafting beats that pulsed with the raw energy of his surroundings.
Grinding Through the Hustle
The early days were far from glamorous. Luellen hustled, taking on odd jobs and living hand-to-mouth while chasing his musical dream. He spent countless nights honing his skills, learning from veteran producers and soaking up the wisdom of Atlanta’s underground scene.
His big break came through a chance encounter with Waka Flocka Flame, a rising rapper in the city. Impressed by Luellen’s raw talent and gritty beats, Waka enlisted him to produce tracks for his debut album, “Flockaveli.” The album’s success propelled Luellen into the spotlight, showcasing his ability to craft infectious soundscapes that resonated with both underground audiences and mainstream listeners.
Building an Empire: 808 Mafia and Beyond
In 2010, Luellen teamed up with fellow producer Lex Luger to form 808 Mafia, a production collective that redefined the sound of hip-hop. Their signature heavy 808s and dark, atmospheric melodies became a blueprint for a new generation of artists.
Under the 808 Mafia banner, Luellen’s production credits became a who’s who of hip-hop royalty. Drake, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Future – the list goes on. He crafted chart-topping hits like “Black Beatles,” “Bad and Boujee,” and “Humble.,” shaping the sound of contemporary hip-hop and earning himself a Grammy Award for his work on Kanye West’s “Yeezus” album.
From Basement Studio to Mansion Walls
Luellen’s success translated into financial rewards. He built a music empire, investing in real estate, clothing lines, and other ventures. Gone were the days of the cramped basement studio; Luellen now operates from a sprawling mansion in Atlanta, a testament to his relentless work ethic and creative genius.
Despite his fame and fortune, Luellen hasn’t forgotten his roots. He remains deeply connected to Atlanta’s music scene, mentoring young producers and giving back to the community that nurtured his talent. His Instagram frequently features heartwarming moments with his two daughters, a reminder of the importance of family and balance amidst the whirlwind of success.
A Life in Beats: Awards, Passions, and Final Thoughts
Luellen’s list of accolades is long and impressive. He has won a Grammy Award, countless BMI and ASCAP awards, and has been named Producer of the Year by Rolling Stone magazine. But beyond the trophies, his true reward lies in the impact he has made on music.
His love for crafting beats remains his driving force. He approaches music with the same infectious enthusiasm he had as a teenager in his basement studio, constantly pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds.
Southside’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. He rose from the streets of Atlanta to become one of the most influential figures in hip-hop, shaping the sound of a generation and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry. His journey is far from over, and one thing is certain: as long as Southside keeps making beats, the music world will continue to dance to his rhythm.
Final Thoughts:
Joshua Howard Luellen, aka Southside, is more than just a successful producer; he is a symbol of hope and inspiration. His story shows that with hard work, dedication, and a little bit of Southern grit, even the most challenging dreams can
FAQ
- Q: What Is Southside’s Estimated Net Worth In 2024?A: As of 2024, Southside’s estimated net worth is $XX million.
- Q: How Many Albums Has Southside Released?A: Southside has released a total of X albums so far.
- Q: What Is Southside’s Career Background?A: Southside is a renowned music producer and DJ known for working with several prominent artists in the industry.
- Q: How Old Is Southside?A: Southside was born on February 2, 1989, and is currently X years old.
- Q: Where Is Southside’s Hometown?A: Southside was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, making it his hometown.