Diplo is an American DJ and music producer born Thomas Wesley Pentz on November 10, 1978 in Tupelo, Mississippi.
He is known for co-creating the electronic dancehall music project Major Lazer, being a member of the supergroup LSD with Sia and Labrinth, and the electronic duo Jack Ü with Skrillex.
Diplo founded the record label Mad Decent in 2006 and has produced hits for many mainstream artists like M.I.A., Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber and more.
His 2013 EP Revolution debuted on the Billboard 200 chart.
However, there is also an international non-profit organization called Diplo Foundation that is specialized in capacity development and research in digital diplomacy, internet governance and tech policy.
It was established in 2002 by the governments of Malta and Switzerland to improve the role of small and developing states in global diplomacy through training, research and digital tools.
Net worth
Diplo has an estimated net worth of 70 million.
He co-created the electronic dancehall music project Major Lazer, which has released several successful albums and singles. Major Lazer’s hit song “Lean On” was a global success.
Diplo has collaborated with many popular artists such as Sia, Labrinth, Skrillex, M.I.A., Gwen Stefani, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber and more. He won Grammy Awards for producing the songs “Electricity” and “Where Are Ü Now”.
In an average touring year, Diplo can earn around $20 million from touring and other income sources. His business ventures include owning the record label Mad Decent and co-founding the non-profit Heaps Decent.
Diplo has made real estate investments, including purchasing a $2.425 million home in the Hollywood Hills in 2016 and Kid Rock’s former Malibu house for $13.2 million in 2020.
Despite his wealth, Diplo remains dedicated to his craft and also engages in philanthropic efforts through his Thomas Wesley Pentz Foundation which supports youth and environmental initiatives.
Career
Diplo has had a successful career spanning over 25 years. He began his career as a DJ and achieved his first major success working with artists like M.I.A. and Gwen Stefani.
Diplo co-created the electronic dancehall music project Major Lazer, which has released several successful albums and singles, including the hit song, Lean On.
He has also collaborated with other popular artists such as Sia, Labrinth, Skrillex, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber and more, earning him multiple Grammy Awards.
In addition to his music career, Diplo founded the record label Mad Decent in 2006 and the non-profit organization Heaps Decent in 2007.
His 2013 EP Revolution debuted at number 68 on the US Billboard 200 chart, and he has continued to produce music and tour extensively.
Throughout his career, Diplo has been known for his eclectic and innovative production style, which blends elements of electronic dance music, hip-hop.and world music.
He has also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through his Thomas Wesley Pentz Foundation, which supports youth and environmental initiatives.
Diplo’s most memorable performances
Major Lazer, the electronic dancehall project co-created by Diplo, is known for its energetic and visually stunning live performances.
Major Lazer’s shows often feature elaborate stage setups, choreographed dancers, and interactive elements that engage the audience.
Diplo is a regular performer at major music festivals worldwide, where he showcases his DJing skills and electrifying stage presence.
His sets at festivals like Coachella, Ultra Music Festival, Tomorrowland, and Electric Daisy Carnival are highly anticipated and draw massive crowds.
As the founder of the record label Mad Decent, Diplo has been instrumental in organizing the Mad Decent Block Party, a touring music festival that features a diverse lineup of artists across various genres. These events are known for their vibrant atmosphere and eclectic music selection.
Diplo’s collaborations with other artists have led to memorable joint performances. For example, his work with Skrillex in the duo Jack Ü resulted in dynamic live shows that combined their individual styles and attracted widespread acclaim.
Tracks like Where Are Ü Now became anthems of their performances.
Diplo’s project with Mark Ronson, Silk City, has also delivered noteworthy performances. Their Grammy-winning track Electricity has been a highlight of their sets, showcasing their ability to blend house and dance music seamlessly.
Real estate
Diplo has made several notable real estate investments over the years. In 2016, Diplo purchased a home in Beachwood Canyon in the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles for $2.425 million.
The 2,500 square foot contemporary home features large glass walls with exceptional views of the city, canyons, and ocean. It also includes a studio, cedar hot tub, succulent wall, and two-car garage.
Diplo sold this property in April 2021 for $2.8 million.
In November 2020, Diplo bought Kid Rock’s former house in Malibu for $13.2 million. Kid Rock had originally purchased the home in 2006 for $11.6 million and sold it in 2017 for $9.5 million.
