Not everyone is born the same; some people may stray from the right path if they are brought up in an environment that could ruin their chances of living a more holistic and wholesome life. Growing up in the Southside of Chicago, David Wells, better known for his rap name Sm00v3$1n, knew that he had to overcome his circumstances to make his path straight. First finding purpose in boxing and eventually in music, David aims to inspire others, especially the youth, who are struggling to get out of similar situations.
Sm00v3$1n grew up in poverty. After hanging out with the wrong crowds, he became a troubled kid. Together with his friends, the artist was constantly in less than ideal situations. But during that time, he knew that there was a better way to live life. Sm00v3$1n never understood the value of living with a purpose, having something to look forward to every day. But he was determined to find himself a better place in the world.
After searching for answers, Sm00v3$1n found boxing as a saving grace, a lifeboat that took him away from his life in the streets. His strength, once used in negligence, was now put to better use. But despite his newfound sport, leaving his life on the streets never came easy. He was shot in the left arm back in 1991 simply for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. The injury almost derailed his boxing career, but Sm00v3$1n continued on his journey to becoming a boxer. With his tenacity, he was able to achieve an outstanding amateur record of 67–13. Despite his impressive run, he stepped away from boxing due to personal reasons.
Eager to open a new page in his life, Sm00v3$1n turned to music, one of his greatest passions. Thus, music became his avenue for telling his story. His debut album entitled Plea Instantly made quite the buzz in the music industry. The album contains nine singles: “It is WHAT it is,” “They Do Like to Fight,” “She’s Long Gone,” “Highs and Lows,” “Chill With You,” “Living Life,” “Wet Dreams,” “I Don’t Give a Damn,” and “Been Around the Block.” All his songs captivated listeners across the globe after being released on all music streaming platforms.
Furthermore, Sm00v3$1n also pursued a career in the film and entertainment industry. He has been in front and behind the camera for over two decades. One of his most notable claims to fame is playing the role of Turner on Prison Break Season 1. The artist was also part of the four-time award-winning Amazon Prime documentary When the Bell Rings.
Through all the storms he has faced in life, Sm00v3$1n faced them with grit and resilience. He is motivated to share his journey as an open book, knowing that there are many more like him who struggle to turn their lives around. “I want to inspire others to achieve whatever goals they desire. My trials and errors in growing as a ‘journeyman’ are what truly motivates me besides my children and wife,” he shared.
Learn more about Dino Wells aka Sm00v3$1n on this site.
