Today let’s talk about Phife Dawg Biography : Phifer Swag also Known as Malik Izaak Taylor was born on November 20, 1970, in Queens, New York City, was a pioneering figure in East Coast hip hop and a founding member of the iconic group A Tribe Called Quest. Known as the “Five Foot Assassin” For his short stature and sharp lyrical delivery, Phife helped redefine hip hop in the 1990s with his clever wordplay, Afrocentric themes, and socially conscious rhymes. He passed away on March 22, 2016, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of artists and fans.
Phife Dawg Biography
Phife Dawg Early Life & Family Background
Phife Dawg Birth Name is Malik Izaak Taylor He was Born on November 20, 1970, Queens, New York City
Phifer Swag Parents, Cheryl Boyce Taylor (poet) and Walt Taylor. Twin Brother Mikal (died shortly after birth) his Cousin is Zinzi Clemmons (writer).
Phife was born prematurely and raised in the St. Albans neighborhood of Queens, a culturally rich area that shaped his musical sensibilities. His mother, a Trinidadian immigrant and acclaimed poet, instilled in him a love for language and rhythm. He met Q Tip at age two, and their childhood friendship would evolve into one of hip-hop’s most influential collaborations.
Phife Dawg Education
Phifer Dawg attended Pine Forge Academy, a Seventh day Adventist boarding school near Philadelphia. He later transferred to Springfield Gardens High School in Queens. Phife’s early exposure to music included listening to Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight”, which inspired him to start rapping at age nine.
Phife Dawg Music Career
A Tribe Called Quest Founded in 1985, originally named “Quest”. Members Q Tip, Ali Shaheed Muhammad, Jarobi White (joined later) Part of the Native Tongues collective, alongside De La Soul and Jungle Brothers. Phife’s witty, punchy style balanced Q Tip’s smooth delivery, creating a dynamic that defined the group’s sound. He often addressed topics like race, identity, and health, including his own battle with diabetes, which he referred to in his lyrics.
Phife Dawg Solo Career
Phifer Dawg Solo Album is Ventilation, Da LP (2000). Featured collaborations with Pete Rock, Hi Tek, and J Dilla. He received modest commercial success but showcased Phife’s lyrical depth. He was working on a second solo album, Forever, at the time of his death. It was released posthumously in 2022.
Phife Dawg Personal Life
Phife Spouse is Deisha Head Taylor with two Childrens. Phife Height is 5′3″ (1.60 m) hence the nickname “Five Foot Assassin”
Phife Dwag Health, Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1990, underwent a kidney transplant in 2008. Phife was open about his health struggles, often referencing them in his music. Despite his fame, he remained grounded and deeply connected to his family and community.
Phife Dawg Awards & Recognition
Multiple gold and platinum albums with A Tribe Called Quest. Grammy nominations for the Beats, Rhymes and Life and We Got It from Here.
Honored in the 2011 documentary Beats, Rhymes & Life, The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest. Street in Queens renamed Malik ‘Phife Dawg’ Taylor Way, in 2016
Phife Dawg Media & Cultural Impact
Phife’s influence extended beyond music, Featured in films like Falling Down (1993), Taxi (2004), and Get Carter (2000) ( “3”) Subject of numerous tributes from artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Questlove.His lyrics are studied for their wit, rhythm, and cultural commentary
Phife Dawg Death
Phife Dawg was died on March 22, 2016
In the Place of Oakley, California
The cause of his death was complications from diabetes. His death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes across the hip-hop world.
Conclusion
Phife Dawg was more than a rapper; he was a poet, cultural voice, and lyrical craftsman. His work with A Tribe Called Quest helped shape the sound and soul of hip hop, blending jazz-infused beats with thoughtful, often humorous rhymes. Despite personal struggles, he remained a beacon of authenticity and creativity. His legacy lives on in the music he made, the lives he touched, and the artists he inspired. Phife Dawg’s voice may be gone, but his message of resilience, identity, and artistic truth continues to echo through the culture.
Phife Dawg FAQ
Who was Phife Dawg?
Phife Dawg, born Malik Izaak Taylor, was a founding member of the legendary hip hop group called, A Tribe Called Quest. He was known for his witty lyrics, distinctive voice, and contributions to alternative hip hop.
When was Phife Dawg born and when did he die?
He was Born on November 20, 1970, in Queens, New York City. He Died on March 22, 2016, in Oakley, California, at the age of 45
What was his role in A Tribe Called Quest?
Phife was the co-lead MC alongside Q Tip. His energetic delivery and humorous, socially aware rhymes balanced Q-Tip’s smooth style. He became more prominent starting with the group’s second album, ‘The Low End Theory’.
Did Phife Dawg release solo music?
Yes. His solo album Ventilation Da LP was released in 2000. A posthumous album titled Forever was released in 2022.
What health issues did he face?
Phife was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in 1990. He underwent a kidney transplant in 2008 and continued to battle complications from the disease until his death.
Was Phife Dawg married?
Yes. He was married to Deisha Head-Taylor and had two children.
What are some of his most famous songs?
Some of Phife’s standout tracks include:Buggin’ Out, Electric Relaxation, Check the Rhime, Award Tour, Can I Kick It?
Was Phife Dawg featured in any films or documentaries?
Yes. He was prominently featured in the 2011 documentary Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest, directed by Michael Rapaport. He also contributed music to films like Falling Down, Taxi, and Get Carter.
Is there a street named after him?
Yes, In 2016, a street in Queens was renamed Malik ‘Phife Dawg’ Taylor Way”in his honor
What was his estimated net worth?
At the time of his passing, Phife Dawg’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million
