Introduction
Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., professionally known as T.I., is a multifaceted American rapper, actor, producer, and entrepreneur. Born on September 25, 1980, in Atlanta, Georgia, T.I. is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of trap music. Over a career spanning two decades, T.I. has established himself as a powerhouse in the music industry and beyond, venturing into acting, real estate, and business.
This article dives deep into T.I.’s journey, including his net worth, career highlights, and influence on music and entertainment.
Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Clifford Joseph Harris Jr. |
| Stage Name | T.I. |
| Date of Birth | September 25, 1980 |
| Age | 44 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia, USA |
| Profession | Rapper, Actor, Entrepreneur |
| Genres | Hip-Hop, Trap Music |
| Net Worth | $30 million (estimated, 2024) |
Early Life and Background
T.I. was raised in Atlanta’s Bankhead neighborhood and began rapping at the age of 8. Growing up, he faced several challenges, including brushes with the law, which later influenced the gritty and authentic themes in his music. His stage name, T.I., was derived as a tribute to his childhood nickname “Tip,” later adapted for his music career.
Music Career
T.I. burst onto the music scene in 2001 with his debut album I’m Serious. Although it wasn’t a commercial success, it set the stage for his career. His second album, Trap Muzik (2003), was pivotal in popularizing trap music, solidifying T.I. as one of the genre’s forefathers.
Discography Highlights
| Album | Release Year | Notable Singles | Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trap Muzik | 2003 | “Rubber Band Man,” “24’s” | Certified Platinum, defined trap music |
| Urban Legend | 2004 | “Bring Em Out,” “U Don’t Know Me” | Billboard Top 10 Hits |
| King | 2006 | “What You Know,” “Live in the Sky” | Debuted at #1 on Billboard 200 |
| Paper Trail | 2008 | “Whatever You Like,” “Live Your Life” | Multi-Platinum, Grammy Nominations |
| Dime Trap | 2018 | “Jefe,” “The Weekend” | Critical acclaim for returning to trap roots |
Awards and Recognition
| Award | Category | Work | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grammy Awards | Best Rap/Sung Collaboration | “My Love” with Justin Timberlake | 2007 |
| BET Awards | Best Hip-Hop Artist | Various | Multiple |
| ASCAP Awards | Songwriter of the Year | Multiple | 2010 |
T.I.’s Paper Trail album, which featured chart-topping singles like “Whatever You Like” and “Live Your Life,” remains one of his most commercially successful works.
Acting and Entertainment Career
T.I.’s charisma extends beyond music, and he has carved a successful acting career. His breakout role was in the 2006 film ATL, which earned critical acclaim. Since then, he has appeared in a variety of movies and television shows, further showcasing his versatility.
Filmography
| Film/Show | Release Year | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATL | 2006 | Rashad | Coming-of-age drama, cult classic |
| Takers | 2010 | Ghost | Action thriller |
| Ant-Man | 2015 | Dave | Marvel Cinematic Universe |
| Ant-Man and the Wasp | 2018 | Dave | Reprised his role in the MCU |
| Rhythm + Flow | 2019 | Judge | Netflix music competition series |
Entrepreneurial Ventures
T.I. is not just an artist but also an astute entrepreneur. He has built a diverse portfolio, including record labels, fashion, real estate, and restaurants.
Key Business Ventures
| Business | Category | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hustle Records | Music Label | Signed artists like Travis Scott |
| AKOO Clothing | Fashion | Casual wear brand |
| Scales 925 Restaurant | Hospitality | Upscale Southern cuisine |
| Real Estate Investments | Property Development | Multiple properties in Atlanta |
Legal Challenges and Comebacks
T.I.’s career has been punctuated by legal issues, including prison sentences for weapons charges and probation violations. Despite these setbacks, he has consistently made successful comebacks, leveraging his experiences to inspire his music.
One of his most significant legal victories came in 2024, when he and his wife, Tameka “Tiny” Harris, won a $71 million judgment in a copyright infringement case against MGA Entertainment. This windfall contributed significantly to his estimated net worth.
Net Worth Breakdown
As of 2024, T.I.’s estimated net worth is approximately $30 million, with earnings spanning music, business ventures, and endorsements.
| Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Music Sales and Royalties | $12 million |
| Acting and Entertainment | $5 million |
| Business Ventures | $8 million |
| Legal Settlement (2024) | $5 million (net after expenses) |
Philanthropy and Advocacy
T.I. is deeply involved in philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, criminal justice reform, and community development. He has partnered with organizations to support underserved communities and frequently uses his platform to advocate for social justice.
Key Contributions
| Cause | Organization/Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Education | “Harris Community Works” | Scholarships and youth programs |
| Criminal Justice Reform | “Us or Else” Campaign | Advocacy for policy changes |
| Community Development | Atlanta Housing Projects | Affordable housing initiatives |
FAQs
- What is T.I.’s most successful album?
- Paper Trail (2008) is T.I.’s most successful album, with multiple chart-topping singles and multi-platinum certifications.
- How much is T.I.’s net worth in 2024?
- His estimated net worth is $30 million, bolstered by music, business ventures, and a legal settlement.
- What are T.I.’s business ventures?
- T.I. owns Grand Hustle Records, AKOO Clothing, and has invested in real estate and restaurants.
- What movies has T.I. acted in?
- T.I. has appeared in films like ATL, Takers, and Marvel’s Ant-Man series.
- What legal challenges has T.I. faced?
- T.I. has faced weapons charges and other legal issues but has successfully rebuilt his career multiple times.
Conclusion
T.I.’s journey from Atlanta’s streets to global stardom is a testament to his resilience and entrepreneurial spirit. As a pioneer of trap music, a successful actor, and a business mogul, T.I. continues to influence the worlds of music and entertainment. His ability to overcome challenges and diversify his career ensures that his legacy remains impactful.