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Joseph Anthony Budden II[1] (born August 31, 1980)[2] is an American broadcaster and former rapper. He first gained recognition with his 2003 single "Pump It Up", which peaked in the top 40 of the Billboard Hot 100 and preceded the release of his eponymous debut studio album (2003). A critical and commercial success, the album peaked in the top ten of the Billboard 200, although it was his only major label release for Def Jam Recordings. He released seven more independent albums to continued critical praise. While doing so, he performed as a member of the hip-hop supergroup Slaughterhouse, who signed with Eminem's Shady Records in 2012; the group released two studio albums.[3][4]

Key Information

In 2018, he retired from recording and shifted focus onto his career in broadcasting. Three years prior, he began hosting The Joe Budden Podcast, which has been running for 900 episodes. In 2017, he had a much-publicized run as a co-host (alongside DJ Akademiks) for Complex magazine's web show Everyday Struggle. He hosted State of the Culture alongside Remy Ma for the network Revolt from 2018 to 2020. For his outspoken views on prominent hip-hop figures, Budden has been described as "the Howard Stern of hip-hop".[5][6]

Early life

[edit]

Budden was born to Joseph Budden and Fay Southerland on August 31, 1980, in the East Harlem neighborhood of Upper Manhattan, New York City, New York.[7] He moved to Jersey City, New Jersey, at the age of thirteen with his mother and older brother, where he attended Lincoln High School.[8] Budden's father was absent from his life during his childhood, a subject he would later address in his music.[9][10]

Budden was a troubled youth[11] and sent to Laurinburg Institute, a boarding school in North Carolina, where he began to hone his skills as a rapper. After returning to Jersey, he began using drugs, developing an addiction to angel dust.[12][5] After an emotional confrontation with his mother, Budden voluntarily went into rehab on July 3, 1997, in exchange for him being allowed to attend his senior prom.[10][12][5] Budden did not earn his diploma and fathered a child with an older woman by the age of 20.[12][5] With his son on the way, Budden began taking music more seriously. In 2001, he teamed up with producer Dub-B, also known as White Boy, and began releasing his first mixtapes and demos, one of which ended up in the hands of Hot 97 radio host and Desert Storm Records label head DJ Clue.

Career

[edit]

Breakthrough, self-titled debut (2002–2003)

[edit]
Budden in 2003

Budden quickly became a mixtape fixture,[13] and secured a major deal with Def Jam Recordings in 2002.[3] He first gained attention through the promotional single "Focus", which spent seventeen weeks on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, peaking at No. 43.[14]

On May 8, 2003, Budden released "Pump It Up" as the lead single for his upcoming album. The song, produced by Just Blaze, was a commercial success, charting at No. 16 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs, as well as its Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart at No. 18.[14][15] The song peaked at No. 38 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart,[16] No. 10 on the Hot Rap Songs chart,[17] and No. 39 on the Radio Songs chart.[18] The song was also featured on soundtracks for the hit films 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) and You Got Served (2004), as well as the video game Madden NFL 2004. Def Jam Vendetta, Def Jam: Fight for NY, and Def Jam Fight for NY: The Takeover where Budden appeared as a playable character.[19][20] The song received a Grammy Award nomination for the Best Male Rap Solo Performance at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards.

On June 10, 2003, Budden released his eponymous debut studio album Joe Budden. It debuted at No. 8 on the U.S. Billboard 200, selling 95,000 units in its first week,[21] and going on to sell over 420,000 copies in the United States. Its second single, "Fire (Yes, Yes Y'all)", featuring guest vocals by American rapper Busta Rhymes,[22] peaked at No. 18 on the U.S. Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay chart[15] and No. 48 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.[14] Budden made a remix featuring Paul Cain and Fabolous, which appeared on the latter's mixtape, titled More Street Dreams, Pt. 2: The Mixtape. In late 2003, Budden guest performed on the R. Kelly-produced single, "Clubbin" by Marques Houston, which peaked at No. 39 on the Billboard Hot 100.[23]

Label issues, Mood Muzik series (2003–2008)

[edit]

While on Def Jam, Budden released two mixtapes, Mood Muzik: The Worst of Joe Budden on December 9, 2003, and Mood Muzik 2: Can It Get Any Worse? on December 26, 2005. Both were critically acclaimed[24] with Complex retrospectively naming Mood Muzik 2 as one of the best mixtapes of all time.[25] Around this time, Joe Budden also began recording his intended second album, The Growth. Originally scheduled for a June 21, 2005 release, The Growth suffered continuous delays, due to disagreements between Joe and Def Jam executives over the direction of the album.[citation needed] On May 25, 2005, Joe released "Gangsta Party" featuring Nate Dogg as the album's first single. The Growth was eventually shelved and Budden was released from Def Jam in October 2007.[26]

In December 2007, Budden signed a multi-album deal with independent distributor Amalgam Digital,[27] His first release on the label was Mood Muzik 3: The Album on February 26, 2008, a retailed version of his mixtape Mood Muzik 3: For Better or for Worse, released previously on December 15, 2007. Although it sold poorly, the album received universal acclaim from critics, who praised Budden's willingness to discuss personal issues.[28][29][30]

Halfway House, Slaughterhouse, Padded Room, Escape Route (2008–2012)

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Budden performing in 2010

On October 28, 2008, Budden released his third studio album, Halfway House, exclusively in digital format. It was the first in a series of connected albums.[31] Its release marked Budden's first return to the Billboard 200 in five years, with approximately 3,000 downloads sold in its first week of release.[32] The album featured "Slaughterhouse", the first collaboration between Budden, Crooked I, Royce da 5'9" and Joell Ortiz. The song's positive reception inspired the four to form a group, naming themselves Slaughterhouse after the song.[33]

After an initial delay,[34][35] Budden's fourth album, Padded Room was released on February 24, 2009, debuting at No. 42 on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and No. 2 on the Top Independent Albums chart, with 13,451 copies sold in the first week of release.[36] Budden's fifth album, Escape Route, followed on August 11, 2009, and met with positive reception from critics.[37][38] The same day, Slaughterhouse released their self-titled debut album, Slaughterhouse, through E1.[39][40] On October 26, 2010, Budden released Mood Muzik 4: A Turn 4 the Worst.

Slaughterhouse planned a second album for release in 2010, tentatively titled No Muzzle.[41][42] However, Royce da 5'9" confirmed talks between the group and Eminem's Shady Records,[43][44] and felt their second album should be released on a major label.[45] After some complications with E1 and Amalgam,[46] Slaughterhouse officially signed a deal with Shady Records on January 12, 2011.[47] On February 8, 2011, Slaughterhouse released a self-titled extended play.

On August 28, 2012, Slaughterhouse released their second studio album Welcome to: Our House, which debut at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 and No. 1 on the Billboard Top Rap Albums, selling 52,000 copies its first week. It was preceded by the mixtape, On The House, which was released on August 19, 2012.

No Love Lost, All Love Lost, Rage & The Machine (2013–2016)

[edit]

On October 16, 2012, Budden released "She Don't Put It Down", featuring Lil Wayne and Tank. The song was the lead single from his upcoming sixth studio album. It debut at No. 96 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Budden's first appearance on the chart in nearly ten years since his 2003 hit single "Pump It Up".

In January 2013, Budden joined the cast of VH1's Love & Hip Hop: New York in season three. He would return for its fourth season later that year.

On February 5, 2013, Budden released No Love Lost, which debut at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 selling 30,000 copies in its first week. By March 20, 2013, the album had sold 60,000 copies.[48] It was preceded by the mixtape A Loose Quarter, which was released on November 20, 2012.[49][50] On March 26, 2013, Budden released the album's second single, "N.B.A. (Never Broke Again)", featuring Wiz Khalifa and French Montana.[51]

On July 12, 2014, Budden participated in Total Slaughter, a rap battle event opposing Hollow Da Don, a top rap battler and influencer in battle rap. Judges awarded victory to Hollow through unanimous decision.[52]

In February 2015, Budden began releasing a weekly podcast with Rory Farrell and Marisa Mendez, then known as I'll Name This Podcast Later. On October 16, 2015, Budden released his seventh studio album, All Love Lost, to universal acclaim from critics.[53] It was preceded by the extended play, Some Love Lost, on November 4, 2014,[54][55] and the singles "Broke" and "Slaughtermouse".

Budden announced his last solo tour dates on May 16, 2016.[56] On July 2, 2016, Budden released a diss track, "Making A Murderer Part I", primarily aimed at Canadian rapper Drake, although he also takes shots at Meek Mill in the song. He later explained that the diss was not personal, done for the competition and sport, and that he has no gripe with either artist.[57] In the aftermath of the feud, Mendez was replaced on Budden's podcast by Jamil "Mal" Clay, after which the show became known as The Joe Budden Podcast.

On October 21, 2016, Budden released his eighth and final solo album, Rage & The Machine, produced entirely by AraabMUZIK. The album debuted at No. 40 on the Billboard 200, selling 11,341 copies in the United States.[58]

Broadcasting career (2017–present)

[edit]

On April 17, 2017, Budden began co-hosting Everyday Struggle, a daily morning show for Complex, with DJ Akademiks and Nadeska Alexis.[59] On June 25, 2017, during the BET Awards pre-show, Budden and his co-hosts conducted an interview with Atlanta rap group Migos, where tensions rose between Budden and Migos member Takeoff after DJ Akademiks questioned his absence on Migos' 2016 hit single Bad and Boujee. Budden walked off set and a momentary standoff occurred between himself and the group.[60] Migos member Quavo referred to Joe Budden in the song "Ice Tray", saying "If a nigga hatin' call him Joe Budden".[61] Budden left the show in December 2017.[62]

On May 14, 2018, Budden announced a partnership with Sean Combs and his media company Revolt, creating and producing the talk show State of the Culture, which premiered on September 10, 2018.[63] Budden would co-host with rapper and fellow Love & Hip Hop co-star Remy Ma. During the summer of 2018, The Joe Budden Podcast began touring, with live performances through the United States.[64] During this time, he officially announced that he was retiring from rapping.[65] In August 2018, Budden signed a deal to bring his podcast to Spotify and expand the show to a bi-weekly schedule, with new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday.[66] On August 27, 2020, Budden announced he was leaving Spotify at the end of his contract over a financial disagreement with the streaming service.[67]

In November 2018, Budden returned to Love & Hip Hop: New York in season nine.[68] The next year, he returned for the show's tenth anniversary season.

On February 3, 2021, Budden announced that he was no longer with Spotify and is bringing exclusive content from his podcast to crowdfunding service Patreon. He also announced that he would be joining Patreon's board as Creator Equity Advisor with the goal to address "everything that's wrong with the monetization system for creators."[69]

Personal life

[edit]

Budden has two children.[70] His oldest son, Joseph Budden III (often referred to as Trey), was born in 2001. In 2010, a warrant for Budden was issued by the Hudson County, New Jersey Sheriff's Office for unpaid child support.[71] His second son, Lexington, was born on December 15, 2017, to Budden and model and video vixen Cyn Santana. The couple became engaged in December 2018, after Budden proposed during a live episode of The Joe Budden Podcast[72] in New York.[73] The couple has since called off their engagement. Budden has been in a relationship with girlfriend Shadee Monique since 2019.[74]

On March 30, 2012, Budden spent a night in jail and missed a Slaughterhouse concert in his hometown over a $75 parking ticket.[75]

In 2014, Budden turned himself in to police following allegations he assaulted his girlfriend and stole her cell phone,[76] and appeared in Manhattan Criminal Court on charges of assault, grand larceny and robbery. A judge later dismissed all charges against Budden.[77]

Budden has admitted to having an addiction to PCP and later MDMA, but has been off drugs and publicly spoken out against their use.[78]

Views

[edit]

Budden has received attention for his outspoken views on certain artists in the music industry. In 2010, he feuded with Lil B on Twitter, prompting Lil B to release the diss track "T-Shirts and Buddens".[79] In an interview with Lil Yachty on Everyday Struggle, he criticized the artist directly regarding his approach to music.[citation needed] In 2023, he was involved in a feud with Drake (which had been ongoing since 2016) and YoungBoy Never Broke Again, as he expressed distaste for both artists. Both of them in turn reprimanded Budden, referring to him as a "failed musical artist"[80] and various pejoratives, respectively.[81]

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

Collaborative albums

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2003 Hip Hop Babylon Himself Documentary
2012 Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap
2013 Can't Forget New Jersey Documentary; post-production

Television

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2013–2014;
2018–2020
Love & Hip Hop: New York Himself Supporting cast (seasons 3–4)
Main cast (seasons 9–10)
2015 Couples Therapy Himself Main cast (season 6)
2018–2020 State of the Culture Himself Host, creator and executive producer

Video games

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2003 Def Jam Vendetta Himself Voice
2004 Def Jam: Fight for NY
2006 Def Jam Fight for NY: The Takeover

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Joe Budden (born Joseph Anthony Budden II; August 31, 1980) is an American rapper, podcaster, and media personality known for his breakthrough single "" in 2003 and for hosting , a leading hip-hop and pop culture discussion show launched in 2015. Born in Spanish Harlem, , Budden moved to , at age 13 with his mother and brother after his parents' separation; he later attended a in for at-risk youth and struggled with to phencyclidine (PCP) during his teenage years. After signing with in 2002 based on a demo tape, he released his self-titled debut album in 2003, which debuted at No. 8 on the and featured the hit ""—produced by and peaking at No. 38 on the —as its lead single. Despite critical praise for his introspective lyricism, the album's sales underperformed, leading to his departure from in 2007; Budden then released a series of acclaimed independent mixtapes and albums, including the Mood Muzik series (starting in 2007), which addressed personal struggles like and relationships. In 2008, he co-founded the hip-hop supergroup with Royce da 5'9", , and Crooked I (later Kxng Crooked); the group debuted with a self-titled album in 2009 on E1 Music, followed by Welcome to: Our House (2012) on /Interscope after signing with 's label, which debuted at No. 2 on the and featured guest appearances from , , and . After Slaughterhouse became inactive following internal tensions and label challenges in the mid-2010s, Budden shifted focus to television and media, appearing as a cast member on VH1's Love & Hip Hop: New York during seasons 3 and 4 (2013–2014), where his relationships with Tahiry Jose and Kaylin Garcia were documented, and returning for later seasons including the tenth anniversary in 2020. He co-hosted Complex's daily hip-hop show Everyday Struggle from 2017 to 2018 alongside DJ Akademiks and Nadeska Alexis, gaining attention for candid interviews and viral moments such as confronting Lil Yachty and walking out during a Migos segment. Budden launched The Joe Budden Podcast in December 2015 originally with co-hosts Rory Farrell and Marquis (Mal), evolving it into a regularly scheduled program with multiple episodes per week that discusses music, current events, and personal anecdotes, later featuring co-hosts including Ice, Parks, and Marc Lamont Hill, with recent changes such as the addition of Mona (DontCallMeWhiteGirl) in September 2025 following Melyssa Ford's departure; by 2018, it topped iTunes' music podcast charts, leading to an exclusive Spotify deal in 2019 (ended in 2021) and reported earnings of $1 million per month as of July 2025. As of November 2025, the podcast remains active, with recent episodes covering topics like new music releases from artists including Summer Walker, Wale, Meek Mill, and Jeezy, as well as discussions on Grammy nominations and cultural events.

Early life and background

Family and upbringing

Joe Budden was born Joseph Anthony Budden II on August 31, 1980, in Spanish Harlem, , to Fay Southerland and Joseph Budden. Raised primarily by his single mother after his African-American father was absent from his life, Budden grew up in a modest household shaped by his mother's efforts to provide stability. Although born in Spanish Harlem, he spent much of his early childhood in before the family moved at the age of 13 to , with his mother and older brother, where he was immersed in a working-class community across the from his birthplace. This move marked a pivotal shift, exposing him to the vibrant local hip-hop scene in Jersey City, which influenced his early interest in music through battles and talent shows. Family dynamics, including close ties with his brother and mother's support, further encouraged his creative pursuits during adolescence. Budden attended Lincoln High School in Jersey City briefly before being sent as a troubled youth to , a in for , where he began honing his rapping skills. The working-class environment of Jersey City, with its diverse neighborhoods and street-level energy, provided the backdrop for his initial forays into hip-hop, drawing from both familial encouragement and the surrounding urban sounds.

Addiction and recovery

Joe Budden developed an addiction to , commonly known as angel dust, around the age of 16. This addiction profoundly disrupted his personal life, leading him to withdraw from school activities and extracurriculars, while also creating significant strain within his family. At age 16, following an emotional with his mother, Budden entered rehabilitation voluntarily; this marked the beginning of his recovery journey. Budden achieved long-term following his release from rehab at age 17, maintaining it for over a decade thereafter, though he experienced a in 2012 before recommitting to recovery with support from peers like . The experience left lasting effects on his mindset, fostering a heightened awareness of challenges, which influenced his later lyrics exploring themes of and personal struggles.

Musical career

Debut and breakthrough (2002–2003)

Joe Budden gained initial attention in the New York underground hip-hop scene through mixtape appearances in the early 2000s, leading to a major label deal with in 2002. The signing came after Budden built local buzz with demos produced by Dub-B (also known as White Boy), which caught the ear of industry figures like . Budden's breakthrough arrived with the lead single "Pump It Up," released on March 24, 2003, and produced primarily by with additional contributions from White Boy. The track, featuring an energetic beat sampled from "Soul Vibrations" by , peaked at No. 38 on the and No. 10 on the chart, marking Budden's first major commercial hit and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Male Rap Solo Performance. Its infectious hook and confident delivery helped propel Budden into the mainstream rap spotlight. On June 10, 2003, Budden released his self-titled debut album through Def Jam, with production largely handled by White Boy alongside high-profile beats from and others. The project featured guest appearances from artists like on "" and on "All of Me," showcasing Budden's raw storytelling. It debuted at No. 8 on the , selling 95,000 copies in its first week, and was later certified gold by the RIAA for 500,000 units sold. Critics praised the album's introspective lyrics, particularly tracks like "Come Around" and "10 Minutes," which delved into themes of addiction and personal relationships, reflecting Budden's own path to sobriety. Following the album's launch, Budden promoted it through early tours and radio features, including a notable appearance on Sway & King Tech's The Wake-Up Show in 2003, where he performed "" and freestyled to build momentum. These efforts solidified his presence in the hip-hop circuit, blending club anthems with vulnerable narratives that set him apart from contemporaries.

Mixtape era and label disputes (2003–2008)

Following the success of his 2003 debut album, Joe Budden faced escalating tensions with over creative direction and project approvals. The label shelved his planned follow-up album, The Growth, citing disagreements on its introspective themes and Budden's refusal to shift toward a more commercial sound influenced by incoming president . These disputes culminated in Budden's release from the label in October 2007, after years of stalled progress that left him in contractual limbo. In response, Budden embraced independent mixtape production, launching the influential Mood Muzik series in with DJ On Point, beginning with Mood Muzik 1: The Worst of Joe Budden in December 2003. The series, spanning Mood Muzik 2: Can It Get Any Worse? (2005), Mood Muzik 3: For Better or for Worse (2007), and Mood Muzik 3.5 (2007), delved into raw explorations of depression, recovery, and tumultuous relationships, earning critical acclaim for its emotional depth and lyrical vulnerability. Mood Muzik 2, in particular, was hailed as one of the year's best for blending with sharp production. Budden also issued other independent projects, such as the 2004 The , Vol. 1 and a Japan-exclusive album III in 2005, which further showcased his versatility amid label constraints. The period marked significant financial hardship for Budden, as the lack of label support forced him to self-fund releases and navigate street-level distribution, yet it fostered greater artistic freedom and cemented his reputation as a mixtape pioneer. Collaborations with DJs like on freestyles and mixes amplified his underground presence during this limbo. Despite the challenges, the Mood Muzik installments built a dedicated fanbase, highlighting Budden's resilience in prioritizing authenticity over mainstream viability.

Group work and later albums (2008–2016)

In 2008, Joe Budden formed the hip-hop supergroup Slaughterhouse alongside rappers Joell Ortiz, Royce da 5'9", and Crooked I, following their collaborative track "Slaughterhouse" on Budden's album Halfway House. The group quickly gained attention for their intricate lyricism and chemistry, releasing their debut mixtape Slaughterhouse in 2009, which showcased raw, battle-ready tracks and helped solidify their underground buzz. That same year, they followed up with their self-titled studio album under E1 Music, which debuted at No. 26 on the Billboard 200 (peaking at No. 25) and sold 18,600 copies in its first week, marking a significant step in elevating the collective's profile. By 2011, signed with 's imprint via Interscope, a move that provided major-label backing and expanded their reach. Their first project under the label, the 2012 Welcome to: Our House, executive-produced by , debuted at No. 2 on the with over 50,000 first-week sales and featured high-profile guests like and himself, blending aggressive bars with more polished production. Meanwhile, Budden continued his solo output during this period, releasing in October 2008 as a digital-only through Amalgam Digital, which served as a bridge from his mixtape era with introspective tracks addressing personal struggles. This was followed by Padded Room in February 2009, his fourth studio , which peaked at No. 42 on the and explored themes of and resilience. In 2009, he also dropped the EP Escape Route, a conceptual continuation emphasizing emotional vulnerability, released digitally via Amalgam Digital. Budden's solo momentum carried into the mid-2010s with No Love Lost in February 2013 on E1 Music, which debuted at No. 15 on the , selling 30,000 units in its first week and featuring collaborations with artists like and to highlight his growth in storytelling. Slaughterhouse attempted a follow-up with sessions for Glass House in 2015, but internal tensions—stemming from creative differences, scheduling conflicts, and Budden's growing focus on media ventures—led to the project's indefinite shelving and the group's hiatus. Budden released All Love Lost in October 2015 via eOne, a deeply personal album peaking at No. 29 on the that delved into relationships and recovery, before capping his musical run with Rage & The Machine in October 2016, which debuted at No. 40 on the and addressed industry frustrations. By late 2016, amid burnout from years of label battles and inconsistent commercial success, Budden shifted toward retirement from rap, announcing his final tour dates and pivoting fully to podcasting and broadcasting.

Media and broadcasting career

Early media appearances (2008–2016)

Joe Budden expanded his public profile beyond music through various media ventures during this period, leveraging his rap career to enter television, video games, and early creation. In 2004, Budden appeared as a playable character in the fighting Def Jam Vendetta, developed by AKI Corporation and published by [Electronic Arts](/page/Electronic Arts), and in its 2006 sequel Def Jam: Fight for NY, where he was one of several hip-hop artists featured in a narrative-driven format. Budden made frequent guest appearances on BET's starting around 2008, including promotional spots for his album , where he performed and discussed his music alongside hosts Bow Wow and . These spots helped solidify his visibility in hip-hop television during a transitional phase in his recording career. In 2013, Budden debuted on as a cast member in season 3 of VH1's , portraying himself and exploring aspects of his personal relationships and industry struggles, which aired through subsequent seasons and marked his entry into unscripted formats. In 2004, his track "Fire" from his 2003 debut album was featured in the pilot episode of HBO's Entourage, underscoring his lingering influence in pop culture soundtracks. Budden's early forays into podcasting began experimentally in 2008 with informal web discussions alongside collaborator , predating his formal launch of I'll Name This Podcast Later in 2015, which evolved into a platform for hip-hop analysis and personal anecdotes. These efforts, often shared via and early streaming, positioned him as an emerging commentator, where he critiqued industry dynamics and shared unfiltered opinions on feuds and trends during guest spots on hip-hop radio shows like those on SiriusXM's Shade 45. Throughout 2008–2016, Budden cultivated a commentator persona through these sporadic media roles, often tied to promoting Slaughterhouse group projects or solo releases, transitioning from performer to vocal industry observer.

Podcast launch and growth (2017–2020)

Joe Budden launched I'll Name This Podcast Later, the precursor to The Joe Budden Podcast, on February 18, 2015, initially co-hosted with Marisa Mendez, focusing on discussions of hip-hop culture, personal experiences, and current events. Rory Farrell joined as a co-host starting with the first full episode on May 29, 2016, bringing a dynamic interplay that helped shift the show's format toward longer, more conversational episodes. By 2017, the podcast experienced significant growth, particularly after Ishmael "Mal" Butler joined as a third co-host in July 2016, adding humor and street-level perspectives that resonated with listeners and propelled the show to wider acclaim in hip-hop circles. In April 2017, Budden expanded his media presence by co-hosting Complex's Everyday Struggle, a daily alongside and Nadeska Alexis, where the trio debated hip-hop news, artist interviews, and industry trends in a raw, unfiltered style that drew millions of views per episode. The show premiered on January 17, 2017, but Budden's involvement from spring onward amplified the podcast's visibility, as cross-promotion and his on-air persona attracted new audiences to . However, tensions with Complex over creative control and compensation led to Budden's departure in December 2017, after which the series continued without him into 2018 and 2019 under different hosts. Building on this momentum, Budden debuted on TV in September 2018, co-hosting with , , and Brandon "Jinx" Jenkins to explore topics in Black culture, politics, and entertainment through candid panel discussions. The series quickly gained traction, earning a 10-episode extension by November 2018 due to strong viewer engagement and critical buzz for its bold takes on issues like hate crimes and pop culture's societal impact. Running through 2020, the show evolved with lineup changes, including replacing Beam, and addressed timely events such as the in virtual formats, solidifying Budden's role as a key voice in cultural commentary. In August 2018, secured an exclusive multi-year partnership with , announced on August 22, which doubled episode output to twice weekly starting and made the full back catalog available only on the platform, significantly boosting downloads and establishing it as Spotify's top by late 2019. By September 2020, the show had produced over 380 episodes, reflecting steady expansion through in-depth music breakdowns, guest appearances, and viral moments that cemented its influence in podcasting. Budden ended the exclusivity in October 2020, citing Spotify's undervaluation of his content and favoritism toward high-profile deals like Joe Rogan's $100 million contract, which he publicly criticized for overshadowing established creators like himself amid broader platform controversies over .

Network expansion and financial success (2021–present)

In February 2021, following his departure from , Joe Budden fully transitioned to , where it became an exclusive platform for ad-free episodes, bonus content, and community features like a patron-only server. As part of the partnership, Budden was appointed 's head of creator equity, focusing on supporting diverse voices in . This shift enabled direct subscriber , with the network achieving approximately $1 million in monthly Patreon revenue as of July 2025 and maintaining that level consistently thereafter, driven by tiers ranging from $5 to $50 per month. The Joe Budden Podcast Network officially launched in 2022, expanding to include multiple shows such as See, The Thing Is... and Girl I Guess. This diversification contributed to the network's rapid growth, positioning it to generate over $20 million in annual revenue by 2025, including subscriptions averaging $1.04 million monthly from about 70,000 paying subscribers, plus advertising and merchandise. Concurrently, the network ventured into live events, with the Tour kicking off in May 2022 across North American cities like Oakland, , and , featuring interactive Q&A sessions and skits that drew thousands of fans. In 2025, Budden continued to reflect on his career trajectory through , sharing an August Instagram post on lessons from industry challenges and personal growth. That November, he resumed YouTube music reviews, including a detailed breakdown of Leon Thomas's album PHOLKS, praising its R&B innovation amid broader hip-hop critiques. Budden also offered predictions for hip-hop's 2025 landscape, forecasting a potential "demise" for the genre due to oversaturation and legal issues like RICO cases, while highlighting and Drake as enduring figures. His model has influenced the podcast industry by demonstrating sustainable independent monetization via , particularly mentoring Black creators on building equitable networks without traditional media gatekeepers.

Personal life

Relationships and family

Joe Budden is the father of two sons from different relationships. His eldest son, Joseph "Trey" Budden III, was born in 2001 to an unnamed former partner. His younger son, Lexington Budden, was born on December 15, 2017, to Budden and model Cyn Santana. Budden began dating Santana in 2016, with their relationship gaining public attention through appearances on Love & Hip Hop: New York. The couple welcomed Lexington shortly after going public and announced their engagement on December 19, 2018, during a live episode of The Joe Budden Podcast, where Santana accepted Budden's proposal after expressing initial reservations tied to his past struggles with substance abuse and infidelity. However, the engagement ended after four months in 2019 amid allegations of Budden's infidelity, including sightings with model Jazzma Kendrick, leading to their breakup. In 2019, Budden started dating model Shadee Monique, with the pair first spotted together at a pool party; their relationship has been characterized by stability and mutual support in co-parenting his sons. The couple marked their fifth anniversary in July 2024, with Monique publicly affirming their commitment amid speculation about . Budden has openly discussed the challenges of fatherhood on his , including financial pressures from obligations during periods of career instability in the mid-2010s when his music career faltered post-label disputes. He has credited responsibilities with fostering his personal growth, particularly after 2020, when heightened public scrutiny prompted a stronger emphasis on protecting his children's privacy from media exposure. In 2012, Budden was arrested in for marijuana possession shortly before a scheduled performance in , resulting in a ticket and brief detention but no further legal consequences. In October 2010, a warrant was issued for Budden's by the Hudson County Sheriff's Office in after he failed to pay approximately $12,983 in obligations to his son, Joseph III, and missed a related appearance. He was subsequently arrested on the warrant later that year, though details on the final resolution indicate the matter was settled through subsequent payments. On August 27, 2014, Budden was arrested in New York City following allegations that he assaulted and robbed his ex-girlfriend, Tahiry Jose, during an incident on August 18 in Washington Heights; he was released on $5,000 bail and ordered to stay away from her. In May 2015, an additional arrest warrant was issued after he skipped a court hearing related to the case. Budden pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct in March 2016, with the original domestic violence and grand larceny charges dismissed. On December 4, 2024, Budden was charged with lewdness, a disorderly persons offense, after a neighbor reported seeing him naked in the hallway of his apartment building via doorbell camera footage; Budden claimed the incident occurred while and that he mistakenly approached the wrong door. He received a summons and was due in court on January 16, 2025, but the charge was dismissed on January 8, 2025. These legal encounters, particularly during Budden's active years in music and , drew significant media attention and scrutiny, contributing to discussions about his personal conduct amid his rising profile with and Love & Hip-Hop: New York. Following the 2016 resolution and the dismissal of the 2024 charge, Budden has faced no ongoing major legal troubles, coinciding with his transition to a successful podcasting career.

Views and controversies

Musical feuds

Joe Budden's involvement in hip-hop feuds has often stemmed from his outspoken critiques of other artists' work and personas, leading to public exchanges that highlighted tensions within the genre. One of his early notable rivalries occurred in 2010 with , the self-proclaimed Based God. The conflict began when Budden mocked Lil B's activity and based philosophy on , prompting Lil B to feel disrespected despite initially expressing fandom for Budden. Lil B escalated the dispute by releasing the diss track "T-Shirts & Buddens," in which he ridiculed Budden's relevance and style, lines like "Joe Budden, Joe Booty, what the fuck is your name." The beef was short-lived, with Lil B later declaring it over, but it underscored Budden's reputation for engaging in online provocations that drew responses from emerging artists. Budden's most prominent feud unfolded with Drake in 2016, rooted in his criticism of Drake's album Views, which he described as "uninspired" and lacking artistic growth. The tension intensified when Drake appeared to reference Budden in the track "4PM in Calabasas," leading Budden to respond with a series of diss tracks, including "Making a Murderer (Part 1)," "Afraid," and "I Pray (This Ain't a Drill)." In "Afraid," Budden directly challenged Drake's dominance, sampling elements of Drake's music to accuse him of avoiding confrontation and prioritizing commercial appeal over substance. Drake subtly alluded to Budden in subsequent releases, though not as explicitly as in his 2015 track "Back to Back" aimed at , which some interpreted as setting a for Budden's challenges. The exchange highlighted Budden's role as a vocal to mainstream rap's biggest stars, though it ended without a full-scale resolution. Budden continued critiquing Drake in later years, including calling him a "lying sack of sh*t" in November 2024 over Drake's lawsuit against related to Kendrick Lamar's "Not Like Us" and alleged involvement in Metro Boomin's feud origins. In 2016–2017, Budden clashed with during an episode of the Complex show Everyday Struggle, where generational divides in hip-hop came to the forefront. Budden questioned Yachty's knowledge of his own record deal and critiqued his approach to the genre as emblematic of a less serious, more commercialized era of rap. Yachty defended his success, arguing that older artists like Budden failed to adapt to evolving industry standards, leading to a heated on-air about authenticity, , and hip-hop's cultural evolution. The exchange extended to , with Yachty challenging Budden to a rap battle, but it remained more discursive than musical, amplifying discussions on how veteran rappers viewed newcomers. A more recent confrontation arose in 2023 with (NBA YoungBoy), triggered by Budden's remarks labeling YoungBoy's music as "trash" and questioning his superstar status despite commercial success. YoungBoy responded aggressively on , telling Budden, "Don't speak on me. I don't play that s**t," and escalating with threats that drew involvement from figures like Birdman. Budden later apologized on his , expressing for the harsh words and positioning himself as a bridge between generations rather than a detractor. This clash, primarily through and discussions, exemplified Budden's post-music career pattern of using verbal sparring to engage with current hip-hop discourse. In 2024, Budden feuded with Yung after she mocked his gold plaque for "" on , leading to Budden accusing her of disrespecting hip-hop history. The dispute escalated online but remained non-musical. Earlier in 2025, Budden reignited tensions with over comments on 50's business ventures, prompting 50 Cent to troll Budden on and reference their encounter at a Knicks game in April 2025, where they exchanged words. These feuds have significantly contributed to the growth of , transforming Budden from a retired rapper into a key media figure whose controversial takes on industry rivalries drive audience engagement. By dissecting beefs and artist motivations, the podcast has cultivated a loyal following interested in unfiltered hip-hop analysis, helping it thrive through an independent model after rejecting a $44 million Spotify offer in 2021. Budden's willingness to provoke responses from high-profile artists has positioned the show as a central hub for hip-hop and critique, boosting listenership through viral moments and cultural relevance.

Social and political commentary

Joe Budden has been a vocal advocate for mental health awareness within hip-hop, often drawing from his own experiences with depression and suicide attempts to destigmatize these issues in the genre. In a 2022 interview, he disclosed attempting suicide fewer than five times, including during the height of his fame with the 2003 hit "Pump It Up," emphasizing that success does not alleviate mental struggles and using his story to encourage openness among artists. During a 2017 episode of Everyday Struggle, Budden became emotional while discussing the prevalence of mental illness among rappers, citing examples like Kendrick Lamar, Kid Cudi, and Kanye West, and urging the hip-hop community to seek help rather than perpetuate a "tough guy" facade. He highlighted how fame can exacerbate depression, advocating for vulnerability as a means to foster healing and reduce stigma in the culture. Through his co-hosting role on TV's from 2018 to 2020, Budden frequently critiqued the music industry's exploitation of artists, particularly how labels promote hypersexualized content to capitalize on audiences. In a 2025 podcast episode, he described Sexyy Red's "" as a "degenerate" track "whitewashed" for mainstream appeal, accusing the industry of using exploitative imagery to market to consumers while undervaluing artistic depth. These discussions often framed the broader systemic issues, such as unequal contracts and cultural appropriation, that disproportionately affect creators in hip-hop. Budden addressed police brutality and the Black Lives Matter movement prominently in 2020, using his podcast to mourn George Floyd's killing and call for accountability. In episode 349 of The Joe Budden Podcast, aired shortly after Floyd's death in May 2020, he dedicated time to reflecting on systemic racism and the ongoing violence against Black communities, urging listeners to engage beyond performative activism. This episode, titled in tribute to Floyd, underscored Budden's support for BLM's push against police violence, aligning with the movement's heightened visibility that year. Budden has expressed views on podcasting's transformative role in the , highlighting its potential for and long-term sustainability. In a 2025 New York Times profile, he reflected on rejecting major deals, such as a $44 million Spotify offer that demanded content restrictions, to maintain control via , which generated over $12 million in subscription revenue that year from 70,000 supporters. His network's projected $20 million earnings in 2025, including ads and merchandise, serve as a model for creators, with Budden stating the transparency aims to show "how else will they know they can do it this way?"—emphasizing diversified revenue to avoid industry exploitation. Budden's takes on gender dynamics in have sparked , often critiquing perceived imbalances while facing accusations of . In a 2019 Variety interview, he denied claims of disrespecting women, asserting his commentary targets industry inequities rather than individuals, though critics pointed to patterns in his discussions of female artists. On , Budden has dismissed it as overblown, calling supporters "bunch of f**king losers" in a 2022 rant and adding disclaimers to episodes on sensitive topics like "stealthing" to preempt backlash. During a 2021 interview with , he explored the concept's limits in comedy and media, questioning its effectiveness in holding powerful figures accountable without stifling discourse. In early 2025, following his December 2024 lewdness charge for an incident, Budden addressed the backlash on his , calling reactions "dramatic" and framing it as an example of overzealous and media exaggeration of personal mishaps. In January 2026, Budden disclosed on his podcast that he had used Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight management, which led to accusations of hypocrisy given prior podcast criticisms of similar medication use by others.

Discography

Studio albums

Joe Budden's studio album output spans his solo career and contributions to the hip-hop supergroup , marked by introspective lyricism, personal struggles, and collaborative energy. His solo releases often delve into , relationships, and industry frustrations, while Slaughterhouse projects emphasize group dynamics and prowess. These albums achieved varying commercial success on the , reflecting Budden's evolution from major-label debutant to independent artist.
TitleArtistRelease dateLabelUS Billboard 200 peak
Joe BuddenJoe BuddenJune 10, 20038
Padded RoomJoe BuddenFebruary 24, 2009Amalgam Digital42
SlaughterhouseAugust 11, 2009E1 Music25
Welcome to: Our HouseAugust 28, 2012/Interscope2
No Love LostJoe BuddenFebruary 5, 2013eOne Music15
Joe BuddenOctober 16, 2015eOne Music29
Joe BuddenOctober 21, 201640
The debut Joe Budden showcased his raw storytelling, with tracks like "Focus" highlighting emotional vulnerability amid street narratives. After a period of label disputes and mixtape dominance, Padded Room marked Budden's return to full-length albums, exploring themes of therapy, recovery from depression, and artistic independence following his Def Jam exit. The project featured production from Dub-O and guest appearances from artists like Fabolous, emphasizing Budden's lyrical resilience. In 2013, No Love Lost arrived as Budden's most guest-heavy solo effort, including on the "She Don't Put It Down," and peaked higher than its predecessor, signaling renewed momentum. The album balanced confessional tracks on love and loss with high-profile collaborations from and . All Love Lost (2015) shifted toward collaboration with Budden's inner circle, including appearances from his "Mood Muzik" series contributors like and , focusing on brotherhood and personal redemption amid career reflections. It debuted modestly but underscored his . Budden's final solo album, (2016), drew political inspiration from social unrest and the title's nod to , addressing systemic issues, mental health, and fame's toll through aggressive bars and features from . The release topped the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart despite lower overall sales. As part of —alongside Royce da 5'9", Joell , and KXNG Crooked (formerly Crooked I)—Budden contributed to two studio albums. The self-titled debut (2009) introduced the group's cypher-style chemistry, peaking at No. 25 and selling over 44,000 copies in its first week. Welcome to: Our House (2012), executive-produced by on , expanded the group's sound with star-studded guests like and himself, debuting at No. 2 on the with 52,000 first-week units and earning praise for its polished production.

Mixtapes and EPs

Joe Budden's mixtape and EP output, spanning over a decade, established him as a key figure in underground hip-hop through raw, introspective projects that prioritized personal vulnerability and lyrical depth over commercial appeal. The Mood Muzik series, his flagship effort, began as a response to label frustrations following his 2003 debut album and evolved into a cornerstone of culture, showcasing Budden's signature blend of freestyle flows and confessional storytelling about struggles, relationships, and industry disillusionment. Released independently or via digital platforms, these works allowed Budden to connect directly with fans, bypassing major label constraints and influencing his later studio releases by honing a more authentic, unfiltered voice. The inaugural Mood Muzik: The Worst of Joe Budden arrived in December 2003, a 21-track collection hosted by that captured Budden's post-debut angst with aggressive freestyles over popular beats, setting the tone for the series' emotional rawness and earning praise for its unvarnished portrayal of personal turmoil. Mood Muzik 2: Can It Get Any Worse? followed in December 2005, expanding on the theme with deeper introspection, including standout tracks that delved into depression and resilience, solidifying Budden's reputation for narrative-driven bars that felt like therapy sessions set to hip-hop production. By blending freestyles with original verses, this installment highlighted his technical prowess while emphasizing as a means of . Mood Muzik 3: For Better or for Worse, dropped as a mixtape in December 2007 before a retail album version in February 2008 via Amalgam Digital, marked a turning point with more polished production and features, yet retained the series' core focus on Budden's battles with fame and self-doubt, using freestyle elements to convey urgency and authenticity. The interim Mood Muzik 3.5, released digitally in December 2007, served as a bridge, adding unreleased cuts and remixes that amplified the personal narratives from its predecessor, further showcasing Budden's ability to weave vulnerability into hard-hitting lyricism. Mood Muzik 4: A Turn 4 the Worst emerged in October 2010 (with a CD version in November), incorporating Slaughterhouse group dynamics in select tracks while maintaining solo introspection, praised for its emotional intensity and role in sustaining Budden's cult following through raw, freestyle-heavy confessions. Beyond the series, (October 2008), a digital-only hybrid often classified as a due to its independent ethos and freestyle inclusions, bridged Budden's solo career with his affiliation, emphasizing themes of redemption through candid over sparse beats. The Escape Route EP (August 2009), a concise 12-track digital project via Amalgam, featured collaborations and focused on from personal demons, utilizing Budden's freestyle skills to deliver urgent, narrative-driven content that underscored his resilience amid career uncertainties. Additionally, the group's debut studio (August 2009) highlighted Budden's contributions to collective , where his verses added personal depth to the supergroup's aggressive, freestyle-infused group dynamic. Over his career, Budden released more than 10 such projects, cementing his legacy in hip-hop for pioneering emotionally transparent that prioritized freestyle authenticity and over mainstream polish.

Filmography and other media

Television and web series

Joe Budden co-hosted the Complex Networks morning debate show Everyday Struggle from its premiere in April 2017 until December 2017, where he discussed hip-hop news and pop culture alongside and Nadeska Alexis. The program featured daily segments on industry topics, artist interviews, and debates, drawing significant viewership during its initial run. Budden's departure was announced by Complex in late 2017 amid reported contract disputes, after which he was replaced by STAR for season two. In 2018, Budden transitioned to Revolt TV as co-creator and host of , a that premiered on September 10, 2018, and ran through 2020. Initially co-hosted with , , and , Beam departed in 2019 and was replaced by ; the series focused on unfiltered discussions of pop culture, politics, race, and social issues, often featuring guest panels and viral moments on topics like hate crimes and entertainment industry dynamics. The show was produced by and emphasized bold, challenging conversations, with Budden contributing his perspective as a former rapper and media personality. Budden has made multiple guest appearances on The Breakfast Club radio show on Power 105.1, including notable interviews in October 2015 discussing his music and reality TV experiences, August 2018 addressing his Complex exit and industry relationships, and March 2020 alongside his State of the Culture co-hosts. He also appeared as a guest on MTV's Wild 'N Out in season 5, episode 10, aired on September 11, 2013, where he served as Black Team captain in improv games and battle raps alongside musical guest Big Boi. In reality television, Budden returned to VH1's Love & Hip Hop: New York for season 9 in November 2018, appearing alongside his then-girlfriend Cyn Santana to document their relationship milestones, including their engagement during a live event that December. He also appeared in season 10 (2019-2020) for the show's tenth anniversary, continuing to feature personal storylines. The season highlighted their personal growth and professional pursuits amid the show's focus on hip-hop relationships. On the web, Budden gained early visibility through YouTube freestyles between 2008 and 2012, including his 2010 rendition over Alicia Keys' "Unthinkable (I'm Ready)" and a 2012 freestyle over Jay-Z and Kanye West's "No Church in the Wild," which showcased his lyrical style and helped maintain his fanbase during a period of independent releases. From 2021 to 2025, he expanded his online presence via the Joe Budden TV YouTube channel, producing short-form web series clips from The Joe Budden Podcast that cover pop culture reactions, guest highlights, and humorous segments, often garnering millions of views collectively. These clips occasionally crossover with his television work, such as recaps of State of the Culture episodes, but primarily serve as extensions of his podcast format.

Film roles

Joe Budden's credits in feature films and short films are not documented in major film databases. According to , he is categorized as an actor but has no specific roles listed in the full cast credits of films such as (2003), (2003), or (2011), where he is instead associated through soundtrack contributions. Similarly, The Movie Database (TMDB) lists five credits for Budden spanning 2009 to 2024, but provides no details on titles or roles in narrative films. records only one credit in the 2015 Total Slaughter, where he appears as a guest star, excluding any feature or short film involvement. Overall, Budden has no verified lead or supporting roles in theatrical or films, with his media presence centered on and television rather than cinematic ; following the rise of his in 2016, any potential film pursuits appear to have diminished.

Video games

Joe Budden made his debut in video games as a playable character in the hip-hop themed fighting series developed by BIG, beginning with in 2003 for and , where he voiced his own likeness as one of the roster's fighters. The game featured a mix of wrestling and street fighting mechanics, with Budden's character utilizing signature moves inspired by styles, aligning with his rising profile following the release of his self-titled debut album earlier that year. This appearance helped integrate him into gaming culture during his early career breakthrough, exposing his persona to a broader audience beyond music. Budden reprised his role in the sequel Def Jam: Fight for NY (2004, for PS2 and ), again voicing and modeling his character as a selectable fighter in the expanded underground fighting narrative featuring over 60 hip-hop artists. He returned for the handheld spin-off Def Jam Fight for NY: The Takeover (2006, PSP), maintaining his playable status with adapted gameplay. These roles capitalized on the roster, blending music promotion with interactive entertainment to boost visibility among gamers and fans. Beyond the Def Jam series, Budden appeared as a bonus celebrity character in the simulation NBA 2K6 (2005, for multiple platforms), integrating into the online 24/7 mode for player interactions. He has no other major credits, though his music has been featured on soundtracks for titles like Madden NFL 04 (2003) and (2006), providing indirect ties to hip-hop influenced gaming post-2010.

References

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