Joe Budden: All You Need to Know About How Tall is Joe Budden
Joe Budden is a name that’s as synonymous with outspoken opinions as it once was with raw, introspective hip-hop. While many remember him for the 2003 hit single “Pump It Up,” others now recognize him as a cultural commentator and podcaster who’s reshaped hip-hop media. But amidst the discussions about his music, podcasts, and opinions, there’s a surprisingly frequent question that fans often Google: How tall is Joe Budden?
In this in-depth article, we’ll break down everything you want to know about Joe Budden — from his height, background, family, rise to fame, podcasting empire, and current life — leaving no stone unturned.
Quick Bio Table
| Full Name | Joseph Anthony Budden II |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | Joe Budden |
| Date of Birth | August 31, 1980 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 44 years old |
| Place of Birth | Harlem, New York City, USA |
| Raised In | Jersey City, New Jersey |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Former Rapper, Podcaster, Media Personality |
| Famous For | “Pump It Up,” The Joe Budden Podcast |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Education | Dropped out of high school (GED obtained) |
| Father | Joseph Budden Sr. |
| Mother | Fay Southerland |
| Children | 2 sons |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $8 million |
| @joebudde |
Who Is Joe Budden?
Joe Budden is a former rapper turned podcaster, widely recognized for his critically acclaimed music, raw lyricism, and for building one of the most influential podcasts in hip-hop culture — The Joe Budden Podcast. Known for being brutally honest, intelligent, and often controversial, Joe has maintained relevance across two decades by continually reinventing himself.
Whether he’s dissecting Drake’s new album or breaking down relationship dynamics with his co-hosts, Budden always brings unfiltered, passionate energy to the mic.
Early Life and Background
Joe Budden was born on August 31, 1980, in Harlem, New York, but his family moved to Jersey City, New Jersey, where he was primarily raised. His upbringing was anything but easy — growing up in a single-parent household with his mother, Fay Southerland, who raised him and his siblings with a firm hand and strong values.
Joe has spoken openly about battling drug addiction in his early years and being sent to a rehab facility at just 17 years old. It was during this time that he began seriously pursuing music, using it as an outlet to express his emotions and make sense of his surroundings.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Joe Budden is 44 years old — and still very much in the public eye, especially through his podcast and cultural commentary.
✅ So, How Tall is Joe Budden?
Joe Budden stands at an impressive:
- 6 feet tall (183 centimeters)
This height puts him slightly above the national average for American males and contributes to his commanding presence, whether on stage or behind the podcast mic.
Other Physical Details:
- Weight: Approx. 185 lbs (84 kg)
- Build: Athletic
- Hair: Bald (by choice), often with a full beard
- Style: Fashion-forward, minimalist, with frequent designer fits
Joe’s clean-cut look has evolved over the years, and today he’s known for his mature, sleek style.
Education
Joe Budden attended Lincoln High School in Jersey City but eventually dropped out before graduating. However, he went on to earn his GED (General Educational Development), proving that formal education isn’t the only route to success.
Instead of following a traditional academic path, Joe poured his energy into music — a decision that would ultimately lead to a major-label deal and a long-lasting career in entertainment.
His Father
Joe Budden’s father is Joseph Budden Sr., a jazz musician by trade. Although their relationship was strained for much of Joe’s life, the musical genes were clearly passed down. Joe has often discussed his father’s absence during his formative years, which deeply influenced his songwriting, particularly on tracks like “Dear Diary” and “Family Reunion.”
Later in life, the two reportedly reconciled and began to rebuild their relationship.
His Mother
Joe’s mother, Fay Southerland, is often credited as his biggest inspiration and guiding force. A social worker by profession, she raised Joe in Jersey City and encouraged his creativity while also holding him accountable.
Joe has spoken emotionally about the role his mother played in helping him through drug rehab, supporting his music career, and shaping his core values. Fay has even made appearances on his podcast and in interviews, often being praised for her intellect and strength.
Children
Joe Budden has two sons:
- Trey Budden (born 2001) – From a previous relationship. Trey is now a rapper himself and has appeared on shows like Love & Hip-Hop: New York.
- Lexington Budden (born 2017) – With model Cyn Santana. Lexington’s birth marked a significant emotional chapter in Joe’s life, one that he’s openly discussed as transformative and healing.
Joe is a proud and present father, often sharing insights into his parenting experience on his podcast and social media.
Music Career: The Rise and Fall
Joe Budden’s music career began in the early 2000s when he signed with Def Jam Records. His biggest hit, “Pump It Up”, released in 2003, became a club anthem and charted on the Billboard Hot 100. He also received a Grammy nomination for the song.
Major Albums:
- Joe Budden (2003)
- Mood Muzik Series (2005–2009) – Cult classics
- Padded Room (2009)
- No Love Lost (2013)
- All Love Lost (2015)
He also gained attention as a member of the hip-hop supergroup Slaughterhouse, alongside Royce da 5’9″, Joell Ortiz, and Crooked I, signed to Eminem’s Shady Records.
Despite undeniable lyrical talent, Joe’s industry relationships were often rocky, and label disputes and creative differences hindered mainstream success. In 2018, Joe announced his retirement from rap to focus entirely on podcasting.
Podcast Empire: The Joe Budden Podcast
Launched in 2015, The Joe Budden Podcast quickly grew from a side project into one of the most influential voices in hip-hop media. Originally featuring co-hosts Rory and Mal, the podcast became known for its in-depth music analysis, hot takes, and unfiltered honesty.
Today, with new co-hosts Ice and Ish, the show continues to dominate on YouTube, Spotify, and Patreon.
Highlights:
- Millions of weekly listeners
- Sold-out live podcast tours
- Lucrative Patreon subscription model
- Brand partnerships and live shows
Joe Budden transitioned from rapper to media mogul, proving that reinvention is not only possible — it’s powerful.
Joe Budden Net Worth
As of 2025, Joe Budden has an estimated net worth of $8 million. While his music career played a part, the majority of his wealth now comes from podcasting, media ventures, brand endorsements, and content monetization through platforms like Patreon.
Income Sources:
| Source | Details |
|---|---|
| Music Royalties | “Pump It Up,” Mood Muzik, Slaughterhouse |
| Podcasting | The Joe Budden Podcast (Spotify, Patreon) |
| Merchandising | Branded apparel and show-related gear |
| Live Shows | Tours and podcast events |
| YouTube Ad Revenue | Clips and full episodes |
Current Life
Joe Budden lives in New Jersey, close to where he grew up. He enjoys a more private lifestyle, often spending time with his kids and focusing on content creation.
Current Interests & Lifestyle:
- Producing digital content
- Hosting culture-driven discussions
- Fashion and streetwear collaborations
- Real estate and business investments
Joe has also hinted at returning to television and expanding into production, leveraging his years of experience in the entertainment world.
Conclusion
So, how tall is Joe Budden? — He stands at 6 feet tall, but his real stature lies in the impact he’s made in both music and media. From lyrical rap king to podcast pioneer, Joe Budden has successfully evolved in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.
His journey reflects resilience, self-reinvention, and the power of authenticity. Whether you’re a fan of his music, his podcast, or just intrigued by his larger-than-life personality, Joe Budden continues to influence culture in ways that go beyond physical height.
FAQs About Joe Budden
Q: How tall is Joe Budden?
A: Joe Budden is 6 feet tall (183 cm).
Q: What is Joe Budden’s age?
A: As of 2025, Joe Budden is 44 years old.
Q: What is Joe Budden known for?
A: He is known as a former rapper (“Pump It Up”) and the creator of The Joe Budden Podcast.
Q: How many kids does Joe Budden have?
A: He has two sons, Trey and Lexington.
Q: What is Joe Budden’s net worth?
A: His estimated net worth is $8 million as of 2025.
