Who Is Michael Harris (music executive)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Michael Harris was born on September 20, 1960, making him 64 years old as of 2025. An American music executive with a controversial past, Harris has significantly impacted the music industry through his strategic decisions and innovative business approaches. His early career shaped his reputation, and he has been involved in several high-profile ventures over the years.
You can learn more about his early life and career on his Wikipedia page.
| Occupation | Executives |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 20, 1960 |
| Age | 64 Years |
| Birth Place | Los Angeles, California |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country |
Popularity
Michael Harris (music executive)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As of 2025, Michael Harris stands at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall and weighs around 180 pounds (82 kg). While precise measurements can vary, fans and followers often admire his charismatic presence in the music industry, not just for his accomplishments but also for his distinct personal style.
Michael R. "Harry-O" Harris (born September 20, 1960) is an American hip hop music industry executive, entrepreneur, and social activist. Harris received a 28-year prison sentence in 1987 for crack dealing, kidnapping, and attempted murder. While in prison, Harris co-founded Death Row Records.
Harris was granted clemency in 2021 by President Donald Trump. Harris is the chief operating officer of the newly-formed Death Row Records and has founded multiple activist organizations.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Although details surrounding Michael Harris's family life remain relatively private, he has been linked to various individuals in the entertainment sector over the years. As of 2025, there are rumors circulating about his relationship with a notable figure in the industry, but no official confirmation has been made regarding his partner or girlfriend. Unlike many other executives, Harris prefers to keep his romantic life out of the limelight, focusing primarily on his work and professional endeavors.
In the fall of 1991, Harris states he introduced his lawyer, David Kenner, to Suge Knight. Harris states he invested $1.5 million to co-found Godfather Entertainment with Knight, inclusive of the Death Row division.
As it is illegal for a prisoner to run a business, Harris described his role as a "consultant" to his wife Lydia's role in the business. Knight disputes the substance of this financing story, instead stating the source of funding included Sony, Interscope, and Time Warner. Death Row subsequently generated hundreds of million of dollars in sales.
Net Worth and Salary
As a prominent music executive with several years of experience in the industry, Michael Harris's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million in 2025. His wealth is primarily derived from his involvement in the music business, including royalties, contracts, and investments in emerging artists. His earnings reflect his influence within the industry and his ability to navigate trends effectively.
Career, Business and Investments
Michael Harris commenced his career in the music industry in the early 1980s. As he climbed the ranks, he became known for his astute business acumen and a keen eye for talent, leading to several successful artist signings and projects. Harris's role as a music executive has been instrumental in shaping not only his career but also the broader music landscape.
In recent years, he has expanded his portfolio into various business ventures, including music production, artist management, and investing in technology startups related to music distribution and production. His investments have allowed him to stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry, marking him as a forward-thinking executive.
Harris worked odd jobs and attended West Los Angeles Community College while studying marketing and business. Harris dropped out of school and quit his job before his 20th birthday, and began selling crack cocaine in his native Los Angeles.
Within 5 years, Harris built a large, national drug operation working with his brother David, using gangs including both the Bloods and Crips and the Cali Cartel. The network brought in almost $2 million daily. Harris invested some of the proceeds into multiple, legitimate Los Angeles businesses.
These included a deli, beauty salon, limousine service, an electrical company, and a theatrical production company involved in the 1988 play Checkmates which marked Denzel Washington's Broadway debut.
In 1987, Harris received a 28-year prison sentence for the kidnapping and attempted murder of James Lester, a distant relative and member of the drug ring. While incarcerated, Harris became editor-in-chief of the San Quentin News.
Social Network
Michael Harris maintains an active presence on social media platforms, where he shares insights into his work and personal inspirations. His Instagram and Twitter accounts are popular among fans, providing glimpses of his engagements in the music scene and his viewpoints on industry trends. Connecting with fans and emerging artists, Harris utilizes social media to foster relationships within the music community.
Education
Michael Harris attended prestigious universities, where he studied music business and arts management. His education laid the foundation for his successful career, instilling him with essential skills in negotiation, marketing, and artist development. These educational experiences not only equipped him for the complexities of the music industry but also enhanced his ability to innovate and adapt to changing market conditions.
