Napoleon (rapper)
Napoleon | |
|---|---|
| Born | Mutah Wassin Shabazz Beale October 7, 1977 |
| Occupation(s) | Rapper, motivational speaker |
| Years active | 1995–2006 (music) |
| Known for | Member of Outlawz |
Mutah Wassin Shabazz Beale (born October 7, 1977), professionally known as Napoleon, is a former American rapper associated with Tupac Shakur's collective Outlawz. He has since embraced Islam and currently serves as a motivational speaker.
Early life
Beale was raised in Irvington, New Jersey by his Christian grandmother after witnessing the murder of his Muslim parents when he was just three years old.
Career
Napoleon joined the hip hop ensemble Outlawz, which was established by rapper Tupac Shakur in late 1995 shortly after Shakur's release from prison. The group rose to fame through their involvement in Shakur’s Makaveli project. Following Tupac's passing in 1996, the Outlawz appeared on the posthumous album Still I Rise and launched their first album, Ride wit Us or Collide wit Us, in 2000. Napoleon also participated in their later releases, including Novakane (2001) and Neva Surrenda (2002). His sole solo effort, Loyalty Over Money, was released in 2006.
Conversion to Islam
In 2001, a Muslim music producer identified Napoleon’s leadership qualities and encouraged him to convert to Islam, prompting him to give up alcohol and drugs. Beale believes that hip hop and Islam are fundamentally incompatible unless the lyrical content adheres strictly to the Sunnah (teachings) of the Prophet Muhammad.
Personal life
Napoleon is married to a Yemeni woman, and together they have three children. By 2003, he and his brother operated a barbershop located in Studio City, Los Angeles. Additionally, he co-owns four dining establishments and a café in Riyadh, marking his expansion into the Middle Eastern hospitality sector.
Filmography
- Thug Life (2001)
- Outlawz: Worldwide (DVD) (2002)
- Tupac: Assassination (2007)