JID Height, Age, Real Name, Net Worth, Career and Biography

Destin Choice Route stands 5’6¼” tall but commands stages like a giant. Known professionally as JID, the 34-year-old Atlanta rapper has built a reputation as one of hip-hop’s sharpest technical voices since signing with J. Cole’s Dreamville Records in 2017. His rapid-fire delivery and deeply personal storytelling have earned him over a billion Spotify streams and critical acclaim that rivals the genre’s biggest names.

JID’s path from college football fields to sold-out concert venues reads like a movie script he’s already planning to direct. The youngest of seven children grew up in East Atlanta, played NCAA Division I football at Hampton University, and got kicked off the team for skipping practice—a turning point that redirected his life toward music. As of 2025, he’s released four studio albums, collaborated with everyone from Imagine Dragons to Eminem, and revealed he’s now a father.

JID’s Quick Bio/Wiki

Facts	Details
Real Name	Destin Choice Route
Stage Name	JID (J.I.D)
Born	October 31, 1990
Age	34 years old (as of 2025)
Height	5’6¼” (1.68 meters)
Birthplace	Atlanta, Georgia
Parents	Carl Louis Route Jr. and Kathy Jean Route
Siblings	Youngest of 7 children
Occupation	Rapper, Singer, Songwriter
Net Worth	$2 million (as of 2025)
Labels	Dreamville Records, Interscope Records

JID Early Life & Background

Destin Choice Route earned his stage name from his grandmother, who called him “jittery” because of his hyperactive childhood behavior. In a 2025 interview, JID explained simply: “That’s where I get my name from. Jittery.” The nickname stuck and became the foundation for his artistic identity.

Growing up as the youngest of seven siblings in East Atlanta meant witnessing struggle firsthand. His brother’s repeated incarcerations became a central theme in his work, with JID rapping on “Glory”: “I’m tryna free the shackles / My brother back inside the cell so I just said a prayer.” These family experiences provided the raw material for his most personal songs.

For “Crack Sandwich” from The Forever Story, JID pulled out his phone during Thanksgiving to capture his sister, mom, and dad discussing family hardships. These unfiltered recordings made it onto the final track, giving listeners direct access to the Route family’s history. This approach shows how JID transforms private pain into public art without losing authenticity.

From Football Player to Rapper

JID attended Stephenson High School in Atlanta, where he played defensive back on the football team. During his senior year, he dislocated his hip but still earned a full athletic scholarship to Hampton University in Virginia. He was redshirted his first year before playing two seasons as a Division I athlete.

Coaches kicked him off the team for skipping practices, ending his football career abruptly. That rejection became his catalyst—he moved in with Doctur Dot and Johnny Venus, the duo known as EarthGang. The three founded Spillage Village in 2010, a musical collective that became JID’s creative incubator.

JID’s rapid delivery style comes from an unexpected source. He jokingly attributes it to head impacts from football but credits his “damn near impeccable” memory for his ability to recall pivotal moments in detail. That mental archive transforms into the hyper-specific storytelling that separates him from other technical rappers.

Signing with Dreamville Records

J. Cole’s Dreamville Records signed JID in 2017 through Interscope Records after years of grinding Atlanta’s open mic circuit, according to HipHopDx. JID wrote early bars on his Domino’s Pizza timesheets during those years. The signing marked his entry into mainstream hip-hop, but he maintains fierce independence despite the label support.

On “VCRs” with Vince Staples, JID makes his mindset clear: “I ain’t killing shit cause of Cole / It’s cause I’m cold.” That line captures his approach—grateful for the platform but determined to prove his success stems from his own skill. Cole’s mentorship opened doors, but JID’s technical ability kept them open.

His contributions to Revenge of the Dreamers III (2019) showcased his talent alongside label mates. According to Billboard, the collaborative album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. This success solidified his position as one of Dreamville’s standout voices beyond just being another signee.

JID’s Studio Albums and Discography

Career Timeline

Year	Release	Type
2012	Route of Evil	Mixtape
2013	Para Tu	Mixtape
2015	DiCaprio	Mixtape
2017	The Never Story	Studio Album
2018	DiCaprio 2	Studio Album
2022	The Forever Story	Studio Album
2025	God Does Like Ugly	Studio Album

You also like it: Coi Leray Height, Age, Net Worth, Career and Biography

The Never Story (2017) introduced JID’s technical prowess to a wider audience through the single “Never.” Critics praised the album’s cohesion and lyrical dexterity, establishing him as more than just another Dreamville artist. The debut proved he could carry a full project on technical skill alone.

DiCaprio 2 (2018) elevated his profile through singles “151 Rum” and “Off Deez” featuring J. Cole. XXL included JID in their prestigious Freshman Class following this release. The album demonstrated growth in both production quality and thematic depth.

The Forever Story (2022) represents JID’s artistic peak thus far. Rolling Stone ranked it third in their 25 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2022—above Kendrick Lamar’s release that year. The album incorporated family conversations, childhood memories, and Atlanta’s racial history into a cohesive narrative about identity and survival.

Breakthrough Hit: “Enemy” with Imagine Dragons

JID’s collaboration with Imagine Dragons on “Enemy” changed his commercial trajectory overnight. The song served as the opening theme for Netflix’s Arcane animated series in 2021. According to Billboard chart data from 2021, “Enemy” peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100—JID’s highest-charting single.

The track introduced JID to audiences who’d never heard a rap verse before. As of 2025, “Enemy” approaches two billion streams across platforms, dwarfing his other releases. The collaboration proved JID could adapt his style to different contexts without losing his technical edge.

The song’s success opened doors to soundtrack work for films like Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024) and Monkey Man (2024). This crossover appeal expanded his reach beyond traditional hip-hop audiences. What some purists questioned became one of his smartest career moves.

“Surround Sound” and TikTok Virality

“Surround Sound” featuring 21 Savage and Baby Tate became a sleeper hit through TikTok’s “Booty Ceiling Challenge.” Released on The Forever Story in 2022, the track gained little initial traction. Then TikTok revived it nearly two years later in December 2023.

According to TikTok’s official chart data, “Surround Sound” hit number one on the TikTok Top 50 in December 2023, reports Billborad. The viral moment pushed the song into the top 40 on mainstream radio. This proved social media could revive catalog tracks long after their initial release.

The track samples Aretha Franklin’s “One Step Ahead” and features Yasiin Bey. JID called the collaboration with Yasiin “beautiful to even have a relationship and then be able to honor his music and then honor Aretha.” The song’s delayed success validated JID’s approach of blending classic soul with contemporary production.

God Does Like Ugly (2025) Album Deep Dive

JID’s fourth studio album God Does Like Ugly explores faith, poverty, and the Black American experience in Atlanta. The title reflects JID’s belief that God sees beauty in struggle. He wrote on promotional materials: “God loves you right where you are. Broken or whole. God does like ugly.”

The album spans juke, soul, boom bap, and Atlanta trap, with JID even singing in Spanish on one track. “Glory” positions him as a spiritual guide, while “Gz” recounts getting his car robbed outside a Falcons game—an only-in-Atlanta story. “Community” features Clipse painting vivid pictures of run-down apartments where residents have lost their agency.

The album’s closing track revealed JID is now a father, with him asking a baby, “Daddy got best bars in the world?” Critical reception proved mixed compared to The Forever Story‘s universal acclaim. Some reviewers noted the album feels disjointed, lacking the cohesive narrative of its predecessor.

JID’s Height and Stage Presence

As confirmed by IMDb profile, JID stands 5’6¼” (1.68 meters) tall, a detail that becomes irrelevant once he steps on stage. At a February 2025 concert at Ithaca College, the crowd jumped so hard they bent the venue floor and cracked the ceiling of the food court below. “I broke a floor, bro—at a college. Who does that?” JID recalled.

His “heart check” tradition demonstrates his connection with crowds. He throws up a hand heart gesture between songs, using the call-and-response to gauge audience energy. This simple gesture creates intimate moments even in venues holding thousands of fans.

During the 2023 Luv Is 4Ever Tour with Smino, audiences at Chicago’s Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom watched iPhone flashlights turn into a sea of stars during “Stars.” His physical stature never diminishes his commanding performance energy. JID focuses on technical skill and authentic connection to make his mark.

JID’s Father Reveal and Privacy

JID maintains strict privacy around his romantic relationships. As of 2025, no public records confirm whether he’s married or in a committed relationship. He’s never posted about a partner on social media or mentioned one in interviews.

His biggest personal revelation came in 2025 on God Does Like Ugly‘s closing track when he revealed fatherhood (via Rolling stone). JID asks a baby “Daddy got best bars in the world?” and the child gurgles back “Yes.” He’s shared no further details about the child or co-parent, maintaining the privacy boundaries he’s set throughout his career.

This revelation adds context to his legal ambitions. JID plans to pass the bar in Atlanta by age 40, stating his brother’s incarceration drives this goal. Fatherhood may intensify that drive, giving him another reason to understand the system that’s shaped his family’s story.

Musical Influences and Style

JID’s Mount Rushmore reveals his Atlanta roots: “We going Outkast at number one. We’re going T.I. We’re going Lil’ Wayne. We’re going Jay-Z.” He grew up listening to Sly and the Family Stone and Earth, Wind & Fire before discovering 1990s New York hip-hop. Jay-Z, Nas, and Mobb Deep shaped his lyrical approach.

Beyond hip-hop, JID names Yukimi Nagano from Little Dragon and Alex Turner from Arctic Monkeys as influences. “I’m talking about great writers. Alex Turner is a king. Yukimi Nagano just dropped an album called For You, she is a wizard with writing,” he said in a 2025 interview. This eclectic taste shows up in his melodic choices and song structures.

His technical style draws from multiple eras and regions. Critics consistently praise his fluent rapping and wordplay. His “damn near impeccable” memory allows him to recall specific moments years later, turning them into detailed narratives that separate him from purely technical rappers.

Read Also: 42 Dugg Height, Age, Net Worth, Family, Career and Biography

Relationship with Yasiin Bey

Yasiin Bey, formerly known as Mos Def, became both mentor and collaborator for JID. Their relationship predates JID’s mainstream success, with Yasiin praising him publicly on Hot 97 in 2017. Yasiin told the station: “If some new n-ggas come through—just like my man JID from Dreamville—fire.”

Yasiin appears on The Forever Story, bringing their relationship full circle. JID grew up studying Yasiin’s intricate wordplay and conscious lyrics. The mentorship extends beyond music, with the two discussing life, spirituality, and the music industry’s challenges.

JID plans to honor another influence by getting Atmosphere on a remix of his God Does Like Ugly track. Their 2002 album God Loves Ugly shares thematic similarities with his latest project. “I didn’t get the idea from them, but I respect them even phrasing [their album] like that,” JID explained.

JID Live Performance Philosophy

JID’s first show taught him everything he needed to unlearn. Opening for Curren$y, he came out rapping over his vocals with a blunt, thinking that’s what rappers do. The performance bombed so badly he considered quitting music but learned to never use backing vocals and always be authentic on stage.

His performance philosophy centers on energy transfer. “The first form of music being made was live performance. It was all about energy and making somebody feel something,” JID stated. He spent roughly eight months of 2019 touring between his Catch Me If You Can Tour and opening for Logic’s Confessions of a Dangerous Mind Tour.

The Forever Story tracks physically drain him during performances. “The [setlist] stretch from ‘Sistanem’ to ‘Kody Blu 31,’ I’m cooked. I’m an emotional wreck at that point.” JID relives the family struggles and personal trauma he wrote about, turning each performance into a cathartic experience.

Dollar and a Dream Tour (2025)

JID launched his Dollar and a Dream tour in 2025 with tickets costing just $1. The pricing strategy aimed to eliminate economic barriers between him and his core fans. He described it as “a way to get close to my family, and actually touch them before we do those big tours.”

The tour sold out instantly despite the minimal ticket cost. One fan told JID: “Every time I see you, it’s gotten better. Tremendously. Exponentially,” having attended shows from 2017 to 2023. These interactions fuel JID’s performance energy and validate his approach to artist-fan relationships.

The $1 ticket price represents his commitment to accessibility in hip-hop. While other artists charge hundreds for meet-and-greets, JID created an entire tour around removing financial gatekeeping. This strategy prioritizes fanbase building over immediate profit.

Atlanta’s Influence on JID’s Music

Atlanta’s racial history permeates JID’s work. On “VCR” with Vince Staples, he references Oscarville—a Black town destroyed by a white mob in the early 20th century before being flooded to create Lake Lanier. “The pungent reek of slavery is still present in Atlanta [today]. It definitely drives me,” JID explained.

JID’s music also references Atlanta’s oppressive Red Dog police unit that brutalized Black residents from the late 1980s through the 2010s. His relationship with Vince Staples helps him process these themes. JID describes Vince as “kind of like my shrink” who helps him delve through issues of police brutality and systemic racism.

The city’s hip-hop legacy equally influences his approach. “It’s a Black city, man, a city of good culture. A history of pain, but prominence,” JID said. That tension between pain and prominence runs through every project he creates.

JID’s Work Ethic and Creative Process

When JID initially locked in on his craft, he created three songs daily—verse and hook. This intensive training period built the technical foundation that now defines his style. His memory allows him to recall specific moments and conversations years later, turning them into detailed narratives.

His hyperproductivity continues today. When Dreamville asked for two singles for God Does Like Ugly, JID delivered a four-track EP featuring Eminem, Lil Yachty, and 6lack. When asked what he does during downtime, JID responded deadpan: “I haven’t been to that place. That’s for when I retire.”

The song “2007” from The Forever Story took two years to complete. This meticulous approach contrasts with his rapid output, showing JID balances quantity with quality. He’ll write dozens of songs but spends years perfecting the ones that make the final cut.

Chart Success and Streaming Milestones

JID joined the billion-stream club on Spotify as of 2025, placing him among hip-hop’s elite streaming artists. “Enemy” with Imagine Dragons accounts for a massive portion, approaching two billion plays across all platforms. According to Spotify data verified in 2025, this single has generated more streams than some artists’ entire catalogs.

“Surround Sound” became his second major streaming hit after going viral on TikTok in December 2023. Billboard chart data from that period shows the song peaked in the top 40 nearly two years after its initial release. This late-breaking success demonstrated JID’s catalog has longevity beyond traditional album cycles.

Rolling Stone ranked The Forever Story third in their 25 Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2022, ahead of Kendrick Lamar’s release. NPR and Billboard also included his albums in their year-end lists. These accolades validate JID’s technical approach in an era where melody often trumps lyricism.

Grammy Snub and Cultural Recognition

JID received zero Grammy nominations for The Forever Story despite its critical acclaim. He admitted he “spiraled” briefly after the snub before quickly moving past it. During a meet and greet, a fan handed JID a plastic Grammy for Best Rap Album that looked identical to the real award.

“My fan base knew we deserve something, but you can’t really say what you deserve,” JID reflected. He called it being happy as hell and philosophized: “You got a Grammy in the streets.” That perspective keeps him grounded—industry awards matter less than authentic connection with listeners.

When JID became a Jeopardy answer in 2025, he called it “a big win.” The contestant knew his name immediately, and JID’s parents saw it. This cultural penetration beyond hip-hop circles validated his impact more than any industry award.

Collaborations Across Hip-Hop

JID’s feature work spans hip-hop’s stylistic spectrum. In 2023, he appeared on tracks by Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, and Eminem. His verses typically steal the spotlight through technical prowess rather than commercial hooks.

He formed Zoink Gang with Smino, Buddy, and Guapdad 4000, expanding his creative network beyond Dreamville. Their 2023 release BlakkBoyz Present Half Doin Dope/Van Gogh EP continued his prolific output. He also toured extensively with Smino, with their Luv Is 4Ever Tour selling out venues nationwide.

James Blake appears on The Forever Story, which JID described as a “full circle moment.” These diverse collaborations show JID’s ability to match energy with artists across genres. His versatility makes him a sought-after feature artist beyond traditional hip-hop circles.

Political Engagement and Social Justice

JID supported Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock during the 2020 United States Senate elections in Georgia, as confirmed by AJC. He performed at a rally for both candidates, using his platform to encourage voter turnout. This political engagement aligns with the social consciousness running through his music.

His legal ambitions tie directly to his brother’s incarceration. JID plans to become a lawyer by age 40 to navigate the judicial system. “I’ve always had good verbiage and dialect, and I would love to get more knowledgeable and work on the case,” he explained.

JID’s spirituality grounds his activism. “I’m definitely a spiritual man. Unwavering belief in God,” he stated. His album God Does Like Ugly explores how faith intersects with poverty, racism, and struggle—theology through the lens of lived Black experience.

Read More: ASAP Rocky Height, Age, Net Worth, Kids & Rihanna Facts 2025

Future Projects and Ambitions

JID announced his next solo album will be titled The Forever & A Day, featuring 10 to 12 songs. He initially stated it would arrive in fall 2024, but as of November 2025, no official release date has been confirmed. The project’s title suggests a continuation of The Forever Story‘s narrative.

He’s also working on JIDTRO, a collaborative album with producer Metro Boomin set for 2025. This marks JID’s first full-length collaboration with a single producer. Metro’s signature dark, cinematic production could push JID’s storytelling into new directions.

Beyond music, JID plans to pass the bar exam and direct films. He wants to adapt his life story into a movie, citing influences like Friday and Roots. “I’m big into directing and all of that stuff. I want to make sure I tap into that before my time is,” he stated.

JID’s Net Worth and Business Strategy

JID’s net worth stands at an estimated $2 million as of 2025, according to The City Celeb. This figure reflects steady growth from touring and catalog streaming rather than breakthrough commercial singles. His Dreamville and Interscope Records deals provide infrastructure while allowing creative freedom.

Brand partnerships with Adidas and Reebok supplement his music income. These deals position JID in the athletic wear space, connecting his football background with his current career. He’s managed by SinceThe80s, which has guided his trajectory since his early days.

His Dollar and a Dream tour strategy prioritizes fanbase building over immediate profit. Charging $1 per ticket represents a long-term investment in loyalty. This approach mirrors his overall philosophy—steady, authentic growth over viral moments and quick cash grabs.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

As of 2025, JID occupies a unique space—universally respected by critics and peers but not yet a household name. His billion Spotify streams prove commercial viability, while his technical skill earns comparisons to the genre’s best lyricists. XXL’s Freshman Class inclusion and Rolling Stone rankings validate his position among hip-hop’s elite.

His willingness to incorporate family recordings and address Atlanta’s racial history sets a template for personal storytelling. The Forever Story‘s critical success demonstrated listeners still value intricate lyricism in an era dominated by melodic trap. This influence extends beyond streaming numbers into how artists approach vulnerability in their work.

When asked how his life changed, JID responded: “Everything’s just been going up… Just more opportunities and just more visibility.” Yet he remains driven by the work itself rather than accolades. His fan-made Grammy meant more than industry recognition—proof that cultural impact matters beyond award shows.

Conclusion

JID’s journey from East Atlanta to global stages illustrates hip-hop’s meritocratic potential. At 34, with four acclaimed albums, he’s built a career on technical excellence and authentic storytelling. His billion streams and critical recognition prove talent and work ethic still matter.

His future ambitions—becoming a lawyer, directing films, releasing new albums—suggest JID views music as one chapter in a larger story. Fatherhood adds new dimensions to his perspective, while his legal aspirations honor his family’s struggles. He hasn’t reached the “rest” place yet and likely won’t until retirement.

From Domino’s timesheets to sold-out tours, from family conversations at Thanksgiving to tracks with Imagine Dragons, JID’s forever story unfolds one meticulously crafted bar at a time. As he told his infant child on record: “Daddy got best bars in the world.” The culture increasingly agrees.

FAQ’s About JID

What is JID’s real name? 

Destin Choice Route. His grandmother nicknamed him “jittery” for his hyperactive behavior, which became his stage name JID.

How tall is JID? 

JID stands 5’6¼” (1.68 meters) tall, though his stage presence makes his physical height irrelevant during performances.

Is JID married or have kids? 

JID revealed he’s a father on his 2025 album God Does Like Ugly but maintains strict privacy about his romantic relationships.

What is JID’s net worth in 2025? 

Industry estimates place JID’s net worth at approximately $2 million as of 2025, earned through music sales, streaming, touring, and brand partnerships.

What is JID’s biggest hit song? 

“Enemy” with Imagine Dragons peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2021 and has nearly two billion streams as of 2025.