Lil Jon was once one of the leading musical voices of his generation. Now in his 50s, the platinum-selling crunk artist is making waves in a different field: bodybuilding.
The 54-year old has quietly emerged as one of the nation's better bodybuilders in his age group. He landed a podium finish in his Muscle Beach championship debut in 2025 and looks well-equipped to put forth some shimmering displays on the bodybuilding circuit in the years to come.
So, just how did Lil Jon, the raspy voice who powered so many club anthems, discover his latest passion project? Here's what you need to know.
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Lil Jon bodybuilding, explained
Lil Jon's music may have soundtracked nightclubs and bars across the country during the early-to-mid 2000s. But the lifestyle that accompanied his success gave him some concerns, particularly after a close friend underwent triple bypass surgery.
"It made me think about how all the partying, eating, and drinking I was doing in my younger years could catch up to me," Lil Jon told BDO.
The Atlanta-based artist took steps to build up his fitness, getting into produce juicing, infrared saunas and chiropractic care. Lil Jon also sought to improve his mental well-being. He has shown a passion for meditation, even recording a meditation album with composer Kabir Sehgal.
“It’s not just about working out or eating better—it’s about taking care of yourself as a whole,” Lil Jon said. “Mental health is a big part of that.”
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Lil Jon's lifestyle changes have served him well in his 50s. He has found balance maintaining his physical and mental health. That is best reflected by his burgeoning bodybuilding career. Lil Jon has chronicled his wellness journey on social media. In recent months, he has attempted to build muscle and trim away fat.
His work seems to have paid off. At Venice's (Cal.) Labor Day Muscle Beach Championship, Lil Jon placed third in the Men's Physique Masters Over-45 category.
"3rd place. Alhamdulillah. Thanks to all that supported me on this journey," Lil Jon wrote on Instagram.