The Simmons family is mourning the loss of Danny Simmons, the acclaimed abstract painter, author, philanthropist, and older brother of Russell Simmons and Joseph ‘Rev Run’ Simmons. He was 72.
The heartbreaking news was announced Monday, June 15, through a statement shared by the family on social media.
“It is with a profound sense of loss that we honor and celebrate the life of Danny Simmons Jr., a beacon of love and creativity,” the family said. “He was not just a brother, father, uncle, grandfather, and loving husband; he was a vibrant artist, dedicated supporter of creatives, and a cherished friend.”
The statement continued, “Though he has transitioned from this world, his legacy of kindness, generosity, and artistic brilliance will forever shine brightly in our hearts. The family respectfully asks for privacy during this time.”
Russell Simmons paid tribute to his brother, calling him “the true artist in the family.”
“His poetry, art, and ideas shaped how we think and gave us the freedom to dream beyond limits,” Russell shared. “He cared deeply about underserved communities of color and encouraged us to give back. Danny was my best friend—we spoke every day. He taught me how to be a better human being and how to be a man.”
Danny Simmons’ influence extended far beyond his family. In 1995, he co-founded the Rush Philanthropic Arts Foundation alongside Russell Simmons and Rev Run. The organization has spent decades providing underserved youth with access to contemporary art education while supporting emerging artists and expanding audiences for the arts.
He also played a pivotal role in the creation of Def Poetry Jam, helping conceive and co-produce the groundbreaking HBO series. His work on the Broadway adaptation earned him a Tony Award and further cemented his impact on the cultural landscape.
As an artist, Simmons became known for developing a style often described as Neo-African Abstract Expressionism, blending African visual traditions with themes of spirituality, rhythm, movement, and cultural identity. His artwork has been exhibited and collected by prestigious institutions, including the Smithsonian Institution, the Brooklyn Museum, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, the United Nations, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.
According to his website, Simmons’ passion for the arts began at home, inspired by his mother, an artist and painter, and his father’s love for the written word. He would go on to become renowned as both a visual artist and writer.
His niece, Aoki Lee Simmons, shared a heartfelt tribute, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the community.
“My Uncle Danny has kept Rush Philanthropic running alone for years because he did not want to stop serving the children in his community and giving them the opportunity to experience the healing, transformation, self-understanding, and self-confidence that art brings,” she wrote. “He held the early Simmons family together. There is no Run-D.M.C., no Def Jam, no nothing without Danny Simmons.”
Danny Simmons leaves behind a remarkable legacy of creativity, philanthropy, mentorship, and service. He is survived by his wife, Keia, and his son, Jamel.
His impact on the worlds of art, poetry, philanthropy, and Black culture will continue to inspire generations to come.
