James Prince

James Prince (born James L. Smith, also referred to as J. Prince, or Lil J.) (born October 31, 1965) is an American music executive, promoter and manager. He is the CEO and co-founder of the Houston based record label Rap-A-Lot.

"James L. Smith" redirects here. For the author of the 1881 slave narrative, see James Lindsay Smith.
For the Gospel Soca artiste and music producer from Trinidad and Tobago, see J Prince.
J. Prince
Born
James L. Smith

(1965-10-31) October 31, 1965
Houston, Texas
Other names
  • Lil J
Occupations
  • Music executive
  • music manager
  • investor
  • boxing manager
  • entrepreneur
  • A&R
Years active1986–present
Musical career
Genres
Labels

Prince is known as one of the 'godfathers of the rap music industry', and inspired other southern hip hop label executives including Birdman of Cash Money Records and Master P of No Limit Records. Artists that have had careers shaped by him included Scarface, Geto Boys and Bun B.

Smith and his son Jas are also known for introducing Canadian rapper Drake to Lil Wayne and helping Drake sign to Young Money Entertainment in 2009. He has also managed prolific boxers such as Andre Ward, Floyd Mayweather Jr., and Shakur Stevenson.

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