Joe Budden Defends Russell Simmons: There’s Nothing Y’all Can Do To Make People Stop Loving Him

Russell Simmons has been back in the news recently after the Hip-Hop mogul/accused rapist posted photos with R&B singer Usher. On the latest edition of his podcast, Joe Budden addressed the backlash directed at the two stars’ Bali, Indonesia meet-up.

“They love Russell Simmons,” Joe Budden declared. “I know y’all don’t want to say it, y’all don’t want to admit to it. I know people seen whatever doc they seen, people believe what they believe.”

He continued, “There’s nothing y’all can do to make people stop loving Russell Simmons. Not a thing in the world. Not a thing in the universe is going to make people stop loving Russell Simmons for as many lives as he impacted.”

Joe Budden also suggested Simmons has widespread support in the entertainment industry. In addition, Budden stated, “He has been nothing but kind, gentle, sweet, generous and amazing if you don’t have that horror story.”

Over a dozen women have accused Russell Simmons of sexual misconduct, including rape. The Def Jam Recordings co-founder “vehemently” denied all allegations against him.

“As somebody that has spent a lot of time in the music business, nobody speaks to the side where the women were auctioning their p#### to move up in the ranks of the system,” Joe Budden asserted.

The former Def Jam recording artist also added, “This existed way before I got to town. But that was happening too. But nobody says that part. Again, I’m not speaking about Russell Simmons, I’m just talking blanket, broad.”

In 2017, Russell Simmons stepped down from his executive positions at Def Jam and other companies in response to the multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. Three years later, HBO Max released the On the Record documentary centered on the allegations of sexual abuse and harassment against Simmons.