Russell Simmons Preps 'The Russell Simmons Project' for Oxygen

Russell Simmons of Def Jam Poetry mastermind Russell Simmons is developing a new reality series for Oxygen, Variety reports. The series, which is currently titled The Russell Simmons Project, will center on the team of women serve as his business associates, including "confidantes, fierce gatekeepers, dating coaches, spiritual advisers, philanthropic czars, business liaisons and more."

The Simmons Lathan Media Group is developing the project, the Production Company behind HBO's Def Comedy Jam, Russell Simmons Presents Def Poetry, and MTV's Run's House, in addition to Picture This TV.

Simmons both conceived and produced Broadway's Def Poetry Jam in 2002. The show won the 2003 Tony Award for Best Special Theatrical Event. With Rick Rubin, he pioneering hip-hop label Def Jam. He has additionally created the clothing fashion lines Phat Farm, Argyleculture, and American Classics. In January 2009 he was named Editor-In-Chief of GlobalGrind.com: The World According To Hip-Hop.