- Name: Benzino
- Current Age: 56
- Occupation(s): Rapper, Record Producer, Reality TV Personality
- Date of Birth: July 18, 1965
- Place of Birth: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Nationality: American
- Parents: Ray Scott (Father), Mary Scott (Mother)
- Siblings: Maureen Scott (Sister)
- Spouse: Althea Heart
- Children: 3 (Coi Leray, Taj Collins, Brittany Collins)
- Net Worth: $2 million (estimated for 2024)
- Source of Wealth: Music, Television, Business Ventures
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Height: 5’9" (175 cm)
- Weight: 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Notable Works: Co-founder of The Source magazine, Reality TV appearances on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta
Early Life and Career
Raymond Leon Scott, known by his stage name Benzino, was born on July 18, 1965. He is an American urban media proprietor, television personality, rapper, and record producer. Benzino co-owned The Source magazine and was a part of the production team Hangmen 3. He was inspired to enter the rap genre after watching the film Wild Style and was a founding member of rap groups the Almighty RSO and Made Men.
Feud with Eminem
Benzino became involved in a highly publicized feud with rapper Eminem in 2002 after The Source magazine rated The Eminem Show four out of five mics. Eminem blamed Benzino and the magazine for what he considered an unfair rating, leading to diss tracks being released by both artists. The feud escalated with Benzino releasing a mixtape titled "Benzino Presents: Die Another Day: Flawless Victory" to further disparage Eminem.
Personal Life and Relationships
Benzino has a mixed ethnicity, with his father being African American and Puerto Rican, and his mother being Cape Verdean and German. He has two sisters, Anita Scott-Wilson and Maureen Scott. Benzino has dated Karlie Redd and Althea Heart, with whom he shares a son. The couple appeared on Season 6 of Marriage Boot Camp to address their broken relationship.
Legal Troubles
On March 29, 2014, Benzino was shot by his nephew following his mother’s funeral. He sustained injuries to his shoulder and back. In 2019, Benzino was cited for driving an uninsured vehicle and later arrested for a bench warrant. He launched a racist tirade against a Vietnamese police officer during his arrest. Benzino has also been arrested and charged with criminal damage to property on multiple occasions, with the most recent being in February 2022.
Financial Insights
As of 2024, Benzino’s estimated net worth stands at $2 million. His wealth primarily stems from his music career, television appearances, and various business ventures. Benzino’s entrepreneurial pursuits, including investments in real estate and fashion, have also contributed to his financial success. Additionally, brand endorsements and collaborations have bolstered his income streams, allowing him to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Expert Opinions and Insights
Industry experts commend Benzino for his resilience and ability to adapt to the ever-evolving music and entertainment landscape. His keen business acumen and strategic partnerships have enabled him to navigate challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. Despite facing setbacks in his career, Benzino’s unwavering passion for music and entrepreneurship continues to drive his success.
