Russell Simmons

Russell Simmons is best known for his involvement in the rap and hip-hop scene throughout the United States – having co-founded record label Def Jam and clothing line Phat Farm. While his music career has been largely successful and lucrative, few may know of his writing career. Simmons has written six books, along with numerous essays and stories, that have gained considerable attention and critical acclaim.

In his book “Do You!: 12 Laws to Access the Power in You to Achieve Happiness and Success”, Simmons uses his own experiences to show readers how to get the most out of their lives. The book was released in 2004 and has since become a bestselling success. It has been translated into multiple languages and is regularly being updated to keep up with modern times.

Simmons begins by telling his readers about his two main values - gratitude and responsibility. He explains that it is important to take each day as it comes and to be thankful for the moments we are given. At the same time, it is important to understand that living an accountable life is essential in achieving our goals.

One of the key points Simmons tries to impart is that our approach to life should not be based on what other people are doing. Instead, we should focus on our own unique gifts, capabilities, and talents. Simmons also shares his insights into topics like fear and risk. He warns us not to become complacent and instead to use our imagination and ambition “to blaze our own trails”.

Throughout the book, Simmons offers a mix of unique anecdotes – such as his time spent in Jamaica and the time he lived and worked in Brooklyn. He also offers practical advice on combating fear and the power of visualization. The book also contains practical tools like checklists, action steps, and exercises.

Simmons' second book “Super Rich: A Guide to Having it All” (2010) explores the idea of wealth, and shows readers how to achieve financial success and abundance. Simmons argues that money is a neutral force, and that it is possible to “use it wisely and beneficially”. Throughout the book, Simmons conveys his own experiences and perspectives on a range of wealth-related topics, such as the power of clear values and priorities, what a ‘millionaire lifestyle’ looks like, and how to turn dreams into reality.

Simmons' other four books – “The Happy Vegan” (2011), “Success Through Stillness” (2014), “The Truth Behind Hip Hop & Religion” (2016), and “The Happy Vegan Achiever” (2018) – offer readers insight into life and culture through Simmons’ perspective. “The Happy Vegan”, in particular, has garnered considerable attention in recent years due to Simmons’ decision to become a vegan. This book focuses on the health benefits of a vegan lifestyle, as well as issues of animal welfare and “fighting for a better world”.

Simmons has kept active throughout his career, and this is reflected in his writing. His books are crammed with ideas and messages as he attempts to encourage and inspire his readers to work towards success, wealth, and happiness. Along with a deep appreciation for humanity, Simmons’ books demonstrate an immense amount of wisdom that should be considered by anyone looking for ways to improve their lives.