Dom Kennedy Biography
Dom Kennedy is an American rapper who was born and brought up in Los Angeles, California, United States of America. He is widely known for his laid-back flow, soulful vocals, and introspective lyrics that often focus on life in Los Angeles. Since 2008, he has released 5 independent mixtapes, most notably his 2010 critically acclaimed mixtape From the Westside with Love.
Kennedy’s career began in 2008 with the release of his debut mixtape, 25th Hour. The mixtape featured the song “Watermelon Sundae,” which became a local hit and helped to establish Kennedy as a rising star in the West Coast hip-hop scene.
Over the next decade, Kennedy released a string of critically acclaimed mixtapes, including From the Westside with Love, Yellow Sweatshirt, and Half-Machine Trippin’. He also collaborated with a number of high-profile artists, including JAY-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and Snoop Dogg.
In 2017, Kennedy released his debut studio album, Get Home Safely. The album was a commercial success, peaking at number 49 on the Billboard 200 chart.
10 Quick Facts About Dom Kennedy
Dom Kennedy Age
Kennedy is 39 years old. He was born on August 22, 1984, in Los Angeles, California, United States. He celebrates his birthday on August 22 every year and his birth sign is Leo.
Dom Kennedy Height
Kennedy stands at a height of 5 feet 5 inches (1.66 m).
Dom Kennedy Weight
Kennedy Weighs 68 kg (149.6 lbs).
Early Life and Education
Kennedy was born on 22 August 1984, in Los Angeles, California. He grew up in Leimert Park, Los Angeles (moved there after his parents’ divorce). He graduated from Santa Monica High School. Later on, he enrolled in Santa Monica College, a two year junior college in California, majoring in business management.
Rise to Fame
Dom Kennedy’s rise to fame wasn’t a meteoric explosion, but rather a steady climb through the underground hip-hop scene, fueled by consistent mixtape releases and strategic collaborations.
2008: 25th Hour, his debut mixtape, gains local traction with the hit “Watermelon Sundae.” 2009-2011: Releases a string of acclaimed mixtapes, including From the Westside with Love, Yellow Sweatshirt, and Half-Machine Trippin’, solidifying his reputation as a lyrical talent and West Coast staple.
Collaborations: Begins working with notable artists like Jay Rock, Ab-Soul, and Alchemist, expanding his reach and gaining recognition beyond LA. Critical acclaim: Mixtapes like The Blue Tape, No Better Time Than Now, and To Live & Die in L.A. receive critical praise for their introspective lyrics and laid-back flow.
High-profile collaborations: Features on tracks with Kendrick Lamar (“The Recipe”), Jay-Z (“Black Friday”), and Snoop Dogg (“The Last Day On Earth”). Curated experiences: Hosts exclusive listening sessions and intimate shows, fostering a dedicated fanbase and strengthening his underground image.
Dom Kennedy Family, Parents
Kennedy was born to his father Dennis Hunn and mother in California. His mother lived in Leimert Park after divorcing his father. Our efforts to find out more about his family came to no avail as no such information is publicly available. Thus, the identity of Dom’s mother is still unclear. It is also not known if he has any siblings. We will update this section once this information is available.
Dom Kennedy Wife
Kennedy has not gone public with his relationship, it is not publicly known whether he is married or in a relationship. His partner’s information will be updated as soon as the information is available.
Dom Kennedy Children
Kennedy has one child, a son named Chip Hunn.
Dom Kennedy Net Worth
Kennedy has an estimated net worth of $1.5 million dollars as of 2023. This includes his assets, money and income. His primary source of income is his career as a rapper. Through his various sources of income, Dom has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Dom Kennedy Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Dom.
Dom Kennedy Wiki
- Full Names: Dominic Ross Hunn
- Popular As: Dom Kennedy
- Gender: Male
- Occupation / Profession: Rapper
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: African-American
- Religion: Not Known
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Dom Kennedy Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 39 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Leo
- Date of Birth: August 22, 1984
- Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Birthday: August 22
Dom Kennedy Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: Not Available
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 5 inches (1.66 m)
- Weight: 68 kg (149.6 lbs)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: Not Available
Dom Kennedy Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Dennis Hunn
- Mother: Not Known
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Not Known
- Marital Status: Single
- Wife/Spouse: Not Applicable
- Dating / Girlfriend: Single
- Children: Sons (Chip Hunn) Daughter(s) (None)
Dom Kennedy Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $1.5 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Rapper
Dom Kennedy Career
Dom Kennedy’s career has been anything but ordinary. It’s a tapestry woven with the threads of underground mixtapes, high-profile collaborations, and a steady evolution into a respected figure in the hip-hop landscape. Here’s a deeper look:
Early Grind and Mixtape Magic (2008-2014):
2008: Burst onto the scene with the mixtape 25th Hour, featuring the hit “Watermelon Sundae.” Relentless mixtape releases: From the Westside with Love, Yellow Sweatshirt, Half-Machine Trippin’, and The Blue Tape established him as a prolific and critically acclaimed artist.
West Coast champion: Lyrics celebrating Los Angeles life resonated with listeners, solidifying his position as a West Coast voice.
Collaborations and Expanding Reach (2015-2019):
Working with the best: Features on tracks with Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Snoop Dogg, Anderson .Paak, Busta Rhymes, and DJ Khaled, showcasing his versatility and earning industry respect.
From underground to mainstream: Debut album Get Home Safely (2017) debuted at #49 on Billboard 200, marking his commercial breakthrough. Global recognition: Extensive tours across North America and Europe built a dedicated global fanbase.
Artistic Growth and Continued Success (2020-present):
Evolving sound: Experimentation with soulful melodies and introspective themes, as seen in projects like Volume Two and ILoveStocker, showcases his artistic growth.
Independent spirit: Founder of his label, The Other People’s Money Company, maintains creative control and cultivates a community of artists. Legacy building: Continues collaborating with a diverse range of artists, while mentoring and inspiring the next generation.
Dom Kennedy Mixtapes
- DJ Mustard – 10 Summers: The Mixtape Vol. DJ Mustard.
- Best After Bobby Two.
- Yellow Album.
- Teeflii – Fireworks (Prod. By DJ Mustard).
- The Original.
- Inner City Hero.
- HALF-A-MIL 2.
- Stream Kennedy’s Surprise Project “Addicted To The Underground”
Dom Kennedy Get Home Safely
Get Home Safely is the second studio album by the American rapper. It was released on 15th October 2013. The album features guest appearances from Skeme, Krondon, Ty Dolla Sign, Nipsey Hussle, and TeeFLii.
Dom Kennedy Volume 2
- One Eye Open
- No Matter What
- By My Lonely
- Best Friend
- Brenda’s Baby
- My Benz
- The Report Aka Glisten
- Christopher Columbus (feat. Ray Wright)
- Trust (Interlude)
- Win or Lose
- Bending Corners (feat. Krondon)
- Dominic’s Intermission
- Rollerblades
- Around Midnight (feat. Mykestro & Glasses Malone)
- Late Night Aka Incomparable (feat. Jay 305)
- Fell in Love
Dom Kennedy Mixtapes List
- From the Westside with Love – Released: March 26, 2010 Label: Self-released Format: Digital download
- The Original – Released: March 10, 2011 Label: Self-released Format: Digital download
- Yellow Album – Released: June 21, 2012 Label: Self-released Format: Digital download
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Global Tours and Cultural Immersion:
- Worldwide Reach: Dom has toured extensively across North America, Europe, and Africa, performing in cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Johannesburg, and more
- Cultural Exchange: He embraces the diversity of each region, immersing himself in local music, food, and art, enriching his perspective and influencing his music.
Japan: A Source of Inspiration:
- Deep Connection: Dom has a special affinity for Japan, visiting the country multiple times and collaborating with Japanese artists like Tokyo-based rapper Kojiki.
- Creative Spark: The Japanese aesthetic and culture have inspired his music, with tracks like “Tokyo Nights” capturing the city’s vibrant energy.
Burning Man: A Reset and Recharge:
- Community and Connection: Dom has participated in Burning Man, the annual experimental art event in Nevada, seeking a sense of community and disconnection from the usual routine.
- Renewed Perspective: The experience has influenced his music, promoting themes of self-discovery and living in the present moment.
Skateboarding: A Creative Outlet:
- Beyond Music: Skateboarding has been a constant companion for Dom, offering a physical and mental outlet for his creative energy.
- Streetwise Inspiration: The fluidity and improvisation of skateboarding translate into his music, reflected in his laid-back flow and introspective lyrics.
The Open Road and Unexpected Encounters:
- Exploring America: Dom enjoys road trips across the United States, seeking inspiration in small towns and scenic landscapes.
- Finding Stories: These journeys often lead to unexpected encounters with people and places, enriching his understanding of the human experience and fueling his songwriting.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Continued artistic growth: He constantly pushes his creative boundaries, experimenting with new sounds and themes. He might explore genres beyond hip-hop or delve deeper into introspective songwriting.
Strengthening his label and community: The Other People’s Money Company is a platform for him and other artists. He might focus on expanding the label, supporting new talent, and fostering a diverse artistic community.
Global impact: He’s already achieved success internationally, but he might aim for even wider recognition and collaboration with artists from different parts of the world.
Philanthropy and social impact: Dom has expressed interest in giving back to his community and supporting social causes. He might dedicate more time and resources to these areas, using his platform to raise awareness and inspire change.
Balance and personal growth: Despite his busy career, Dom prioritizes his well-being and personal life. He might focus on achieving a better work-life balance and exploring interests outside of music.
Legacy building: Dom’s career has already been impactful, but he might strive to leave an even stronger legacy through his music, mentorship, and influence on future generations.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Philanthropic Efforts:
- Supporting local organizations: He has partnered with and donated to organizations like the Leimert Park Village Empowerment Initiative, a non-profit focused on revitalizing his childhood neighborhood.
- Promoting mental health awareness: He has participated in events and spoken out about the importance of mental health, especially within the Black community.
- Advocating for social justice: He has used his platform to raise awareness about issues like police brutality and mass incarceration.
Community Involvement:
- Mentoring young artists: He has offered guidance and support to aspiring artists, both through workshops and informal interactions.
- Promoting artistic expression: He actively participates in and supports events and initiatives that showcase diverse artistic talent.
- Empowering his community: Through his music and presence, he encourages self-expression, resilience, and community building within his neighborhood and beyond.
Challenges and Considerations:
- Limited public information: Dom’s personal life and charitable work often remain private, making it difficult to fully assess the extent of his social impact.
- Focus on artistic expression: While he engages in social causes, his primary focus appears to be on his music and creative pursuits.
Dom Kennedy Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Critical Acclaim:
- Consistently praised by critics for his introspective lyrics, laid-back flow, and soulful soundscapes.
- Mixtapes like The Blue Tape, No Better Time Than Now, and To Live & Die in L.A. received widespread critical acclaim.
- Featured in publications like Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and The Fader, solidifying his critical recognition.
Commercial Success:
- Debut album Get Home Safely debuted at #49 on the Billboard 200, marking his entry into mainstream recognition.
- Headlined sold-out shows across North America and Europe, demonstrating a dedicated fanbase.
- Collaborations with high-profile artists like Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg garnered commercial success and expanded his reach.
Industry Recognition:
- Featured on tracks by top artists, including Anderson .Paak, Busta Rhymes, and DJ Khaled, showcasing his versatility and collaborative spirit.
- Founded his own successful label, The Other People’s Money Company, demonstrating artistic independence and business acumen.
- Respected by his peers as a lyrical talent and a leading voice in West Coast hip-hop.
Cultural Impact:
- Music resonated with listeners for its relatable themes of love, loss, and navigating life in Los Angeles.
- Cultivated a dedicated fanbase who appreciate his authenticity and unpretentious approach.
- Considered an influential figure in West Coast hip-hop, inspiring a new generation of artists.
Legacy
Artistic Influence:
- Champion of West Coast Hip-Hop: Dom’s smooth flow, introspective lyrics, and soulful sound revitalized and redefined West Coast hip-hop, inspiring a new generation of artists.
- Lyrical Mastermind: His relatable and poetic storytelling resonates with listeners, capturing the complexities of life, love, and loss in Los Angeles.
- Genre-Bending Vision: Dom isn’t afraid to experiment, incorporating jazz, R&B, and soul influences into his music, pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.
Community Impact:
- Independent Spirit: Founding his label, The Other People’s Money Company, empowered him and other artists, fostering a community of creative freedom.
- Mentoring and Support: Dom actively mentors young artists, offering guidance and opportunities, ensuring the future of West Coast hip-hop.
- Positive Role Model: His dedication to family, community, and personal growth inspires fans and fellow artists alike.
Cultural Significance:
- Voice of Los Angeles: Dom’s music paints a vivid picture of life in L.A., capturing its struggles, beauty, and diverse spirit.
- Global Recognition: His music transcends borders, connecting with fans worldwide who appreciate his authenticity and universal themes.
- Dedication to Authenticity: He stays true to his roots and artistic vision, inspiring others to embrace their individuality and creative voices.
Hobbies and Interests
Music and Creative Pursuits:
- Music Production: He enjoys experimenting with music production, composing beats and creating soundscapes beyond his rapping.
- Photography: He occasionally shares photography on his Instagram, showcasing an eye for capturing moments and urban landscapes.
- Writing: He has expressed interest in writing, hinting at potential future projects beyond music.
Travel and Exploration:
- Road Trips: He enjoys exploring the United States by car, seeking inspiration in small towns and scenic landscapes.
- International Travel: He has toured and visited countries like Japan, embracing different cultures and finding inspiration in new places.
- Openness to New Experiences: He seems open to trying new things and immersing himself in different cultures, suggesting a curious and adventurous spirit.
Personal Interests:
- Skateboarding: Skateboarding has been a lifelong passion, providing a physical and creative outlet beyond music.
- Family and Friends: He values spending time with loved ones, prioritizing his well-being and personal connections.
- Fashion: He has a distinctive style and enjoys experimenting with clothing and accessories, often collaborating with local brands.
Personal Beliefs
Spiritual Leanings:
- Openness to Spirituality: He’s expressed exploration of different spiritual paths, acknowledging the importance of faith and higher power.
- Focus on Inner Peace: His lyrics often delve into self-reflection and finding inner peace, suggesting a search for meaning and purpose.
- Respect for Nature: He paints vivid pictures of Los Angeles’ natural beauty, suggesting a connection to and appreciation for the environment.
Social and Political Views:
- Community Advocate: He supports his local community in Leimert Park, advocating for social justice and youth empowerment.
- Critical of Social Issues: His lyrics sometimes address systemic issues like police brutality and mass incarceration, suggesting a concern for social equality.
- Emphasis on Individual Growth: While not explicitly political, his music often encourages personal responsibility, resilience, and overcoming challenges, suggesting a belief in individual agency and empowerment.
Quotes
“Every day is a new chapter, every chapter a new verse. Keep on writin’ your story, let the universe rehearse.”
“Distance ain’t nothin’, it’s just a temporary state. Love is a bridge, build it strong, don’t let it break.”
“From the streets to the rooftops, we built this city brick by brick. We hustle, we dream, we shine, this is our legacy, thick.
“West Coast flow, ocean breeze, palm trees swayin’ in the heat. This ain’t just a place, it’s a feeling, a heartbeat.”
“L.A. sunshine, concrete jungle, where dreams take flight and nightmares stumble. This is my city, my canvas, my story to tell.”
“Love ain’t always butterflies and rainbows, it’s thunder and lightning too. But if it’s real, you weather the storm, and the sun always shines through.”
“Keep your spirit in order. Stay fly at all times. It’s in you not on you.”
“Sometimes the best way to hold on is to let go. Trust the process, the seeds you plant will surely grow.”
“The world is a mirror, reflect what you wanna see. Plant good seeds, watch your garden grow eternally.”
“You gotta turn the pain into somethin’ beautiful. Turn that frown upside down.”
Final Thoughts
Dom Kennedy is more than just a rapper; he’s a cultural icon, a voice for his community, and an inspiration for artists and fans alike. His journey is far from over, and his future holds exciting possibilities. As he continues to write his story, we can expect his legacy to grow and inspire for generations to come.
Dom Kennedy Contacts
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