Thomas Wesley Pentz Jr., better known by his stage name Diplo, is a renowned American DJ and record producer based in Los Angeles, California. He is the co-creator and lead member of the electronic dancehall music project Major Lazer, a member of the supergroup LSD, and has collaborated with prominent artists such as Skrillex, Mark Ronson, and Sia.
Born on November 10, 1978, in Tupelo, Mississippi, Diplo grew up in Miami, where he developed a passion for home-grown rap and Miami bass. He began his music career as a DJ in Philadelphia, where he gained recognition for his unique sound, which blended disparate genres such as dancehall, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Diplo's early success as a DJ led to the formation of the Hooked on Hollertronix parties, which became a staple of the Philadelphia club scene. He also released several mixtapes, including Never Scared, which was named one of The New York Times' top ten albums of 2003.
In 2004, Diplo released his solo debut album, Florida, which was pressed twice, with a CD and a CD and DVD. The album showcased his ability to blend different genres and styles, from dancehall to electronic music.
Diplo's work as a producer and DJ has led to collaborations with numerous artists, including M.I.A., Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, Madonna, Shakira, Beyoncé, and Justin Bieber. He has also worked on production and mixtape projects with other pop artists, such as Die Antwoord, Chris Brown, and Poppy.
In addition to his music career, Diplo is the founder and manager of the record company Mad Decent, as well as the co-founder of the non-profit organization Heaps Decent. He has also worked as a school teacher in Philadelphia.
Diplo's influence on the music industry is evident in his ability to blend different genres and styles, creating a unique sound that has gained widespread recognition. His collaborations with other artists have resulted in numerous hit singles and albums, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the electronic dance music scene.
Diplo has also been involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting the non-profit organization Heaps Decent, which aims to provide educational and artistic opportunities to underprivileged children. He has also been an active fan of the Los Angeles Clippers, often showing his support on social media.
In 2016, Diplo endorsed Bernie Sanders as the Democratic presidential nominee, and was featured on the cover of Billboard magazine. He has also performed at various events, including the Staples Center during half-time at a Clippers game in 2015.
Throughout his career, Diplo has demonstrated his versatility as a producer, DJ, and artist, and has gained a reputation as one of the most innovative and influential figures in the electronic dance music scene.
