Jadakiss Defends Upbringing against Claims of Privilege, Reveals Father’s Addiction
Yonkers, NY – August 26, 2024 – Rap veteran Jadakiss is responding to online criticism suggesting his stable family life equates to a privileged upbringing. the Lox member addressed the misconception during a recent appearance on the “Joe & Jada” podcast, released Monday (august 25), clarifying that having both parents present did not shield him from hardship.
The conversation arose following co-host Fat Joe’s discussion of a GoFundMe campaign initiated by rapper Finesse2Tymes’ mother. Fat Joe noted that manny in Hip Hop experienced poverty and struggle,stating,”Most of us in Hip Hop grew up poor,struggling. [Until] this day, I got family members that live in the projects.”
Jadakiss interjected, expressing frustration with comments implying he had an idyllic childhood. “I gotta cut you off before that, ’cause it’s some aholes in the comments that think I grew up like the Huxtables,” he said. “I don’t know what the fk is wrong with these people… Coming from where we come from, it’s a stunning thing to have both of your parents.”
He detailed that despite having a mother and father, his family faced critically important challenges.”Do that mean we wasn’t in the street? No. Do that mean our household had gold spoons? no. My moms… she busted her a. My pops was on drugs. He was able to shake back,” Jadakiss revealed. “I was outside doing st… Just ask the people. Just ask the cops. Just ask any fking body you wanna ask.”
Jadakiss further argued against the notion that a supportive family invalidates one’s authenticity or struggles. “For some reason… you can’t be standing up to your word if you have both of your parents. Are you some type of ahole? It’s a blessing to have both of your parents if you can have both of your parents.”
Jadakiss’ Commitment to HBCUs and Family Success
Beyond addressing his personal history, Jadakiss has publicly celebrated his children’s academic achievements. His daughter, Jaidyon, recently graduated from Morgan State University, prompting a congratulatory social media post from the rapper.
Jadakiss has also been a vocal advocate for Historically Black Colleges and universities (HBCUs). His son attended Clark Atlanta University. In a September 2023 interview with Allhiphop, he emphasized the importance of supporting these institutions, stating, ”My son actually went to Clark Atlanta, and we need more kids enrolling in these schools. With all the focus on NIL (Name, Image and Likeness), D1 programs and big schools, a lot of kids are being persuaded to go elsewhere. So anytime I can support,whether it’s hitting the stage or doing a panel,I’m going to be ther.”
