Paul Wall is a Houston-based rapper and entrepreneur born March 11, 1981. He gained fame through Swishahouse Records in the late 1990s, scored a Billboard 200 number-one with “The Peoples Champ” in 2005, and built a Grillz empire with jeweler Johnny Dang. His verse on Nelly’s “Grillz” earned him a Grammy nomination in 2007.
Who Is Paul Wall?
Paul Michael Slayton, known professionally as Paul Wall, represents Houston hip-hop at its finest. Born on March 11, 1981, Wall rose from street promoter to chart-topping rapper and became one of the most recognizable figures in Southern rap. His career spans over 25 years, marked by platinum albums, business ventures, and an unwavering dedication to Houston’s music culture.
Wall attended Jersey Village High School and later studied mass communications at the University of Houston for three years before focusing entirely on music and entrepreneurship. His stage name reflects both his street credibility and his role as a barrier-breaking artist in a predominantly Black genre.
The Early Years: From Street Team to Swishahouse
Wall’s entry into music began at age 14 as a street team member on Houston’s Northwest side. He promoted southern labels like Cash Money Records and No Limit Records, learning the music industry from the ground up. This hustle taught him valuable lessons about marketing and building buzz—skills that would serve him throughout his career.
In the late 1990s, Wall approached Michael “5000” Watts at Swishahouse Records with a proposal to handle promotions. Alongside fellow Houston rapper Chamillionaire, Wall convinced Watts to let them rap on his radio show at 97.9 The Box (KBXX). Their freestyle appeared on the mixtape “Choppin Em Up Part 2” in mid-1999, becoming so popular locally that both artists became permanent Swishahouse members.
The partnership between Wall and Chamillionaire formed The Color Changin’ Click, named after Chamillionaire’s chameleon persona. This duo became a fixture on Houston’s underground mixtape circuit, appearing on multiple Swishahouse releases and building a dedicated fanbase.
Breakthrough Success: “The People’s Champ”
In 2005, Paul Wall signed with Atlantic Records and released his major label debut, “The People’s Champ.” The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling 176,000 copies in its first week. This commercial breakthrough brought national attention to Houston’s chopped and screwed sound.
The album spawned three notable singles:
- “Sittin’ Sidewayz” featuring Big Pokey, peaked at number 34 on the Billboard R&B/Hip-Hop Chart
- “They Don’t Know,” featuring Bun B, showcased Wall’s connection to Texas rap royalty
- “Girl” became the album’s most successful single, reaching number 35 on the Hot 100
Wall’s deep, laid-back delivery contrasted sharply with his flashy appearance—diamond-studded grillz and baggy clothing—creating an intriguing persona that resonated with fans beyond Texas borders.
The “Grillz” Phenomenon
In November 2005, Wall featured on Nelly’s “Grillz,” which became his biggest commercial success. The song peaked at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance as a Duo or Group at the 2007 Grammy Awards.
The collaboration happened through an unexpected series of events. According to Wall, Nelly was sold a fake grill by a rival jeweler claiming to be Johnny Dang. After learning about the situation through T.I., Wall and Dang gifted Nelly a $20,000 custom grill—the most expensive piece they’d made at that point. Nelly loved the grillz and immediately invited Wall to collaborate on “Grillz,” produced by Jermaine Dupri.
The song became more than a hit—it was a billboard for Wall’s grillz business. Wall later described it as a straight commercial for their jewelry operation, and it worked spectacularly. The track introduced diamond-encrusted grillz to mainstream audiences and cemented Wall’s reputation as the go-to source for custom mouth jewelry.
Building the Grillz Empire with Johnny Dang
Paul Wall’s business partnership with Vietnamese-American jeweler Johnny Dang transformed the grillz industry. Before their collaboration, many grillz looked unflattering—protruding too far and giving wearers buck teeth or horse teeth appearances. Dang’s technical expertise, combined with Wall’s marketing prowess, created a smoother, more refined product.
The two began working together around 2000, initially creating grillz out of the side of Wall’s car. By 2016, they opened Johnny Dang & Co., a fine custom jewelry store in Houston. Their 22-year partnership has made them the most sought-after grill makers in hip-hop.
Notable clients include:
- Kanye West (two sets)
- LeBron James (four grillz)
- T.I. ($35,000 set)
- Lil Wayne (permanent set)
- Olympic swimmer Ryan Lochte ($25,000 American flag design)
- Paris Hilton
- Diddy
Dang and Wall’s work expanded beyond hip-hop. Ryan Lochte famously wore their red, white, and blue diamond-encrusted American flag grill after the 400-meter Individual Medley at the London Olympics, bringing their craftsmanship to a global audience.
Their success stems from quality materials sourced at competitive prices, custom designs, and reasonable pricing compared to competitors. They manufacture everything in-house, allowing them to control quality and keep costs manageable for customers ranging from celebrities to everyday fans.
Musical Evolution and Continued Output
Wall’s third album, “Get Money, Stay True” (2007), peaked within the Billboard 200’s top ten and spawned singles “Break ‘Em Off” featuring Lil Keke and “I’m Throwed” featuring Jermaine Dupri. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.
Throughout his career, Wall has released over 10 studio albums independently through Paul Wall Music, including:
- “CheckSeason” (2013)
- “The Po-Up Poet” (2014)
- “SlabGod” (2015)
- “Houston Oiler” (2016)
- “Bounce Back Over Setbacks” (2018)
- “Mind Over Matter” (2020)
- “Once Upon a Grind” (2024)
His collaborative work includes multiple projects with Chamillionaire (after they reconciled in 2010), Baby Bash in The Legalizers series, Termanology, and fellow Houston rapper Lil’ Keke. In 2025, he released “The Tonite Show” with DJ. Fresh, proving his commitment to staying active in music.
Wall’s style remains consistent—slow, measured flows over bass-heavy production that celebrates Houston’s car culture, hustle mentality, and Southern pride. His guest appearance on Kanye West’s “Drive Slow” from “Late Registration” showcased his ability to hold his own alongside major artists while maintaining his distinctive sound.
Health Transformation: 130-Pound Weight Loss
In 2010, Paul Wall made headlines for reasons beyond music. After receiving a call from VH1’s “Celebrity Fit Club” asking him to participate, Wall confronted his weight struggles. He weighed 320 pounds at six feet tall, 120 pounds overweight, and was classified as morbidly obese by his doctor.
On New Year’s Eve 2010, Wall underwent gastric sleeve surgery. Unlike gastric bypass or lap band procedures, the gastric sleeve permanently removes a portion of the stomach and eliminates hunger-inducing hormones. Wall chose this procedure because it offered permanent results—80% excess fat loss compared to 50% with the lap band.
The surgery proved life-changing. Wall lost 130 pounds, dropping to approximately 190 pounds. Beyond physical changes, his health improved dramatically:
- High blood pressure disappeared
- Chronic bronchitis resolved
- Depression lifted
- Stage performance improved—no more losing his breath or voice
Wall faced criticism during his transformation. Some fans, accustomed to seeing him larger, accused him of having AIDS or using drugs. Rather than hiding from these accusations, Wall became openly transparent about his health journey, hoping to inspire others facing similar struggles.
His wife, Crystal, also embraced health changes, losing 70 pounds through Zumba classes after previous diet attempts and liposuction hadn’t worked. She eventually opened MixFitz Studios in Houston’s Heights neighborhood, offering dance fitness classes. Together, the couple lost over 160 pounds and became advocates for healthy living in the hip-hop community through platforms like FeelRich.com.
Family Life and Personal Growth
Paul Wall married Crystal Slayton in 2005, and they share two children: son William (born 2006, nicknamed Will) and daughter Noelle (born 2007). Wall gave his son the middle name Patrick Hawkins, honoring late Houston rapper Fat Pat.
In 2014, Crystal’s sister passed away from sickle cell disease, leaving behind a daughter, Chaslon Bragg. The Walls became her guardians, expanding their family and further motivating their commitment to healthy living. Wall and Crystal often emphasize the importance of modeling good habits for their children, incorporating family walks and outdoor activities into their routine, which they often share on Instagram.
Wall remains a devoted Houston sports fan, supporting the Houston Texans, Houston Rockets, and Houston Astros. He’s often spotted at games and sporting events, maintaining his connection to the city that shaped him. The rapper performed at Texans games and has maintained strong ties to Houston’s athletic community, becoming a beloved figure and the people’s champ.
Cultural Impact and Authenticity
Paul Wall stands out as a white rapper who earned genuine respect within Houston’s predominantly Black hip-hop culture. His authenticity comes from deep roots in the community—he grew up in the Northside neighborhood of Acres Homes alongside future rap stars like Slim Thug and Chamillionaire.
In a 2024 interview, Wall revealed something remarkable about his childhood: he didn’t realize he was white until later in life. Growing up in one of America’s most diverse cities, where 145 different languages are spoken, Wall was simply part of his community. People often mistook him for Hispanic, mixed-race, or French Creole, especially when he wore his hair short.
This color-blind upbringing contributed to his credibility. Wall never code-switched or changed his approach to appeal to mainstream audiences. Unlike some white rappers who used hip-hop as a springboard to other genres, Wall committed fully to Houston rap culture, earning him the title of the people’s champ. He respected its traditions, championed its artists, and never abandoned the sound that made him successful.
Early in his career, many mixtape listeners didn’t know Wall was white—not because he was hiding it, but because his flow, content, and commitment to the culture spoke for themselves. When his appearance became more widely known, his established reputation protected him from the skepticism that often greets white rappers.
Recent Work and Legacy
Paul Wall shows no signs of slowing down. In December 2024, he released “Once Upon a Grind,” featuring Houston legends like Slim Thug, Lil’ Keke, and Z-Ro, alongside newer artists, making it a must-watch video for fans. The album embodies the hustler mentality synonymous with Houston rap, with tracks celebrating car culture, work ethic, and Southern pride.
In a Billboard interview, Wall stated his intention to make music until he’s 80 years old. His passion for creating remains strong nearly three decades into his career. Beyond traditional hip-hop, Wall collaborated with children’s YouTube channel Gracie’s Corner on “Wheels on the Bus H-Town Remix” in 2024. The song garnered over 6 million views and introduced a new generation to Paul Wall. His live performance at Gracie’s Corner’s Houston concert in August 2025 delighted parents and children alike.
Wall continues touring regularly throughout Texas and beyond. His 2025 concert schedule includes stops in Houston, Austin, Dallas, and smaller Texas cities, maintaining his connection with fans across the state. He frequently performs alongside fellow Houston artists, supporting the next generation of Texas rappers.
The grillz business remains thriving. Johnny Dang & Co. operates from their Houston location, serving clients from across the entertainment industry. Wall and Dang have gifted grillz to Houston Astros players after their 2022 World Series victory and offered custom grillz to University of Houston basketball players during their 2025 championship run.
Wall’s influence extends beyond music and jewelry. He served as president of the Texas chapter of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (the Grammy organization), using his platform to advocate for Southern artists. He’s appeared in films including “Queen & Slim” and “Grandma’s Boy,” expanding his entertainment footprint.
What Makes Paul Wall Different
Several factors distinguish Paul Wall from other artists:
- Consistency: Wall never chased trends or compromised his sound. He’s remained committed to Houston’s chopped and screwed tradition, bass-heavy production, and car culture themes for 25+ years.
- Business AcumenWhile many artists rely solely on music, Wall built a parallel revenue stream through his grillz business, proving that he knows how to get ya mind correct. This entrepreneurial mindset provided financial stability and expanded his cultural influence beyond music.
- Community Investment: Wall consistently promotes Houston artists, collaborates with local talent, and represents his city proudly. He attends community events, supports local sports teams, and maintains a visible presence in Houston neighborhoods.
- Authenticity: Unlike artists who change their approach for commercial success, Wall stayed true to his roots. His respect for Black culture, genuine friendships with Houston artists, and unwavering commitment earned him lasting credibility.
- Longevity: Many artists from the mid-2000s Southern rap boom faded away, but Wall adapted without abandoning his core sound. He found ways to remain relevant by collaborating with younger artists while maintaining his signature style, often featuring them in his music videos.
Paul Wall’s Influence on Hip-Hop
Wall’s impact on hip-hop extends beyond his own success:
- Bringing Houston Sound Mainstream: Along with Mike Jones, Slim Thug, and Chamillionaire, Wall helped introduce chopped and screwed music to national audiences in the mid-2000s.
- Grillz Culture: Wall didn’t invent grillz, but he popularized diamond-studded custom pieces as essential hip-hop accessories. His business made high-quality grillz accessible to fans, not just celebrities.
- White Rapper Blueprint: Wall demonstrated how white artists could succeed in hip-hop through genuine respect for the culture, community connections, and authentic expression rather than novelty or appropriation.
- Independent Success: After his Atlantic Records run, Wall proved artists could maintain careers releasing music independently, controlling their creative direction while staying financially viable.
- Houston Pride: Wall’s constant championing of Houston culture inspired local pride and encouraged other Texas artists to embrace regional identity rather than mimicking coastal sounds.
FAQs
What is Paul Wall’s real name?
Paul Wall’s real name is Paul Michael Slayton. He was born on March 11, 1981, in Houston, Texas.
How did Paul Wall get famous?
Paul Wall gained fame through Houston’s Swishahouse Records in the late 1990s, collaborating with Chamillionaire. His 2005 album “The People’s Champ” debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, and his feature on Nelly’s “Grillz” brought mainstream recognition.
Who is Paul Wall’s business partner for grillz?
Johnny Dang, a Vietnamese-American jeweler, has been Paul Wall’s business partner for over 22 years. Together they operate Johnny Dang & Co. in Houston, creating custom diamond-studded grillz for celebrities and fans.
Is Paul Wall still making music in 2025?
Yes, Paul Wall continues making music actively. He released “Once Upon a Grind” in December 2024 and “The Tonite Show” with DJ. Fresh in 2025, both of which have been highly anticipated by fans following Paul Wall. He stated he plans to make music until he’s 80 years old.
How much weight did Paul Wall lose?
Paul Wall lost 130 pounds after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery on New Year’s Eve 2010. He dropped from 320 pounds to approximately 190 pounds, dramatically improving his health and quality of life.
What is Paul Wall’s net worth?
As of 2024, Paul Wall’s estimated net worth is $2.5 million, earned through music sales, touring, and his successful grillz business with Johnny Dang.
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