Fat Joe Biography: Age, Career, Spouse, Net Worth

In This Review

Who is Fat Joe?

Joseph Antonio Cartagena, widely known by his stage name Fat Joe, is a celebrated American rapper whose career has spanned more than two decades. He began his musical journey in 1992 as a member of the influential hip-hop collective Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.), which also included notable artists like Lord Finesse and Big L. The group was known for its raw, East Coast hip-hop style, and their work laid the groundwork for Fat Joe’s future solo endeavors.

In 1993, Fat Joe embarked on a solo career with the release of his debut album Represent. This marked the beginning of his rise in the rap scene, with the album’s standout tracks introducing his signature style and setting the stage for his future success. Over the years, Fat Joe has gone on to release multiple albums, collaborating with high-profile artists and becoming a major figure in the hip-hop industry.

Profiling Fat Joe

A Quick Glance At Fat Joe

Full Names	Joseph Antonio Cartagena
Stage Name	Fat Joe
Date Of Birth	August 19 1970
Age	54 Years Old
Nationality	American
Place of Birth	South Bronx, New York, United States
Occupation	Rapper
Spouse	Lorena Cartagena
Marital Status	Married
Academics	N/A
Net Worth	$5 million

Biography

Joseph Antonio Cartagena, widely known by his stage name Fat Joe, is a renowned American rapper who has been an influential figure in the music industry for more than two decades. Fat Joe first gained recognition in 1992 as a member of the hip-hop collective Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.), a group that was known for its raw, underground sound and produced some of the most iconic artists in hip-hop.

Fat Joe’s journey into solo stardom began shortly after his involvement with D.I.T.C. In 1993, he released his debut studio album, Represent, which marked his official introduction as a solo artist. The album received praise for its gritty, streetwise lyrics and strong production, laying the foundation for Fat Joe’s career. The success of Represent quickly helped him establish himself as a rising star in the rap scene.

Over the years, Fat Joe has continued to build his legacy, releasing multiple albums that have contributed to his widespread success and acclaim. He has become known for his collaborations with major artists such as Big Pun, Remy Ma, Jay-Z, and many others. His work has spanned different phases of hip-hop, from the golden era of rap to the modern-day sound, allowing him to maintain a prominent presence in the industry.

Fat Joe’s career is defined not only by his musical achievements but also by his business ventures, collaborations, and consistent ability to stay relevant in the ever-evolving music industry. His contributions have made him one of the most respected and influential figures in hip-hop culture.

Early Life And Education

Fat Joe, born Joseph Antonio Cartagena on August 19, 1970, in the South Bronx, New York, United States, hails from a culturally rich background that has significantly influenced his music career. Raised by his parents, Ernesto Delgado and Marie Cartagena, Fat Joe grew up alongside one sibling, his brother Andre. It was Andre who first introduced him to the world of rap music during their teenage years, sparking a lifelong passion for the genre. Together, the two were deeply influenced by the Zulu Nation culture, which played a pivotal role in shaping their musical tastes and aspirations.

Fat Joe’s father, who is of Cuban descent, migrated to the United States in search of a better life, while his mother, of Puerto Rican heritage, helped to enrich his connection to both Caribbean and Latin cultures. With this mixed heritage, Fat Joe has proudly represented his roots in his music, often blending elements of both Cuban and Puerto Rican cultures into his work. He has been vocal about his strong ties to his Christian faith, which has influenced both his personal life and his career.

While much of Fat Joe’s early life and educational background remain private, his upbringing in the vibrant and diverse South Bronx played a crucial role in shaping his perspective and musical direction. Growing up in one of the most culturally dynamic and historically significant neighborhoods in New York City, Fat Joe was exposed to a blend of influences that would later define his sound. Though not much has been publicly shared about his formal education, his experiences growing up in this environment equipped him with the skills and resilience to navigate the competitive music industry and rise to prominence as a leading figure in hip-hop.

Age

Fat Joe, whose real name is Joseph Antonio Cartagena, was born on August 19, 1970. As of 2024, he is 54 years old.

Career

Fat Joe, born Joseph Antonio Cartagena on August 19, 1970, in the South Bronx, New York, is an American rapper, producer, and businessman with a career spanning over two decades. He is recognized for his contribution to the hip-hop scene and his prominent role in shaping East Coast rap.

Fat Joe first gained recognition in 1992 as a member of the hip-hop group Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.), where he was known for his powerful lyrics and distinctive flow. His debut solo album, Represent, was released in 1993, marking the beginning of his successful solo career. The album featured the hit single “Flow Joe,” which introduced him to a larger audience and laid the foundation for his future success in the rap industry.

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Fat Joe continued to rise in prominence with the release of multiple albums, including Jealous One’s Envy (1995) and Don Cartagena (1998), which showcased his versatility and solidified his status in hip-hop. His 2001 album Jealous Ones Still Envy (J.O.S.E.) featured the chart-topping hit “What’s Luv?” featuring Ashanti and Ja Rule, propelling him to mainstream stardom. This song, along with others in his catalog, cemented Fat Joe’s position as one of the genre’s top artists.

As his career progressed, Fat Joe ventured into business, founding his label, Terror Squad, which helped launch the careers of artists like Remy Ma and DJ Khaled. His collaboration with DJ Khaled on the hit “All the Way Up” in 2016, which featured Remy Ma, became a significant milestone in his career, reasserting his dominance in the rap game and showcasing his continued relevance.

In addition to his music, Fat Joe has also dabbled in acting and film production, making appearances in movies and TV shows. He has served as a mentor to younger artists, giving back to the hip-hop community. Despite challenges, including his involvement in controversies and legal battles, Fat Joe has maintained a prominent place in the music industry.

Beyond his music and business ventures, Fat Joe is known for his philanthropy, supporting various charitable causes and giving back to his community. His career trajectory reflects not just musical success but also his influence in the broader entertainment and business landscape.

Awards and Nominations

Best Rap Performance (2017) for “Up” (with Remy Ma and French Montana)
Best Rap Song (2017) for “Up” (with Remy Ma and French Montana)
Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group (2008) for “Make It Rain” (with Lil Wayne)
Best Collaboration (2017) for “Up” (with Remy Ma and French Montana)
Best Group (2005) with Terror Squad
Best Hip-Hop Video (2005) for “Lean Back” (with Terror Squad)
Other Notable Awards and Nominations
Billboard Music Awards
Soul Train Music Awards
ALMA Awards
Teen Choice Awards

Personal Life

Fat Joe Biography: Age, Career, Spouse, Net Worth

Fat Joe, whose real name is Joseph Antonio Cartagena, has maintained a stable and loving family life, which contrasts with the often chaotic nature of his public persona in the music industry. He has been married to his wife, Lorena Cartagena, since 1995, marking a long-lasting union that has weathered the test of time. Together, they have built a family and are parents to three children. Their two sons, Joey Cartagena and Ryan Cartagena, are both adults, with Ryan being 27 years old. They also have a daughter, Azariah Cartagena, who is 17 years old.

In addition to his children with Lorena, Fat Joe has a son from a previous relationship, further expanding his role as a father. Despite his successful career as a rapper, producer, and entrepreneur, Fat Joe has consistently placed a strong emphasis on the importance of family. He has spoken in various interviews about how vital it is for him to spend quality time with his wife and children, ensuring that they remain his priority despite the pressures of his career.

Fat Joe’s commitment to his family is evident in how he balances his professional achievements with his personal life. He often shares moments of family life on social media and public platforms, reinforcing his belief in the importance of family values. For Fat Joe, family is not just a source of love and support but a central pillar of his identity.

Net Worth

As of 2024, Fat Joe’s estimated net worth is approximately $5 million. This wealth comes from his successful career as a rapper, businessman, and media personality. In addition to his music sales and tours, which have remained profitable over the years, Fat Joe has diversified his income through entrepreneurial ventures, including owning a sneaker store in New York and investing in various business opportunities. Despite some setbacks, such as a brief prison sentence for tax evasion in 2012, he has managed to rebound and continue expanding his brand.