Swizz Beatz Talks Hip Hop, Philanthropy

Swizz Beats and wife Alicia Keys. (2012 Getty Images)

Hip Hop’s iconic music producer, Kasseem “Swizz Beatz” Dean, has again tapped into his philanthropic side. His wife, Alicia Keys, has already made her mark in global philanthropy and was recently honored for her work at BET’s “Black Girls Rock.”

She is an obvious source of inspiration for Swizz.

The philanthropic arm of the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation announced that Swizz will help build awareness and philanthropic support for HHC arts and healing initiatives. His work, they say, will strengthen HHC’s ability to provide care and better opportunities to underserved populations.

“As an artist, I understand the important role that art can play as part of the healing process,” said Beatz. “In life, it’s important to give back, so I am honored to partner with New York City’s public hospitals in their mission to provide quality healthcare for all New Yorkers.”

Swizz Beatz was named as HHC Global Ambassador at a celebratory event and fundraiser to mark the opening of the new Harlem Hospital Center Mural Pavilion in September.

“Swizz Beatz is committed to using his creativity, innovation and international stature to help spread the HHC message on a global scale to promote better health in our city and our world,” said Joe Schick, executive director of The Fund for HHC.

Beatz is no stranger to global commitments. He is a Grammy Award-winning record producer, DJ, rapper, painter, apparel designer and a philanthropist. Born and raised in the South Bronx, Swizz Beatz has produced for labels like Elektra, Atlantic, Def Jam Recordings and Bad Boy Entertainment, working with artists such as DMX, Beyonce, Jay-Z and Busta Rhymes.

He is also known for his creative design partnership with Reebox. An avid art collector and painter, Swizz is involved in several causes involving young people and art.

Along with his wife, the superstar couple continues to inspire people around the world. Even when Hurricane Sandy forced them to leave their New York City home,  they continued to be positive and set an example for their 2-year-old son, Egypt.