Proof was a rapper and actor from the Detroit, Michigan area. He is best known for rapping with groups like D12 and 5 Elementz. Even years after his death, several questions still remain around his death. 

How Much was Proof’s Net Worth: Earnings?

The veracity of the claim that Proof built a decent net worth between $3 million and $5 million has been substantiated by reputable sources. Notably, Proof’s primary source of income came from the substantial earnings he earned from his Yeezy sneaker line.

Although he may have embellished the magnitude of his business over time, the monetary gains he acquired from his profession were undoubtedly substantial, positioning him as one of the most lucrative celebrity cashouts in history. It is pertinent to mention that Proof’s primary income stream predominantly originated from his successful endeavors as a musician, singer, and songcreator.

Proof famous for?

In his short but memorable rap career, Proof was best known for his freestyle skills. Proof also performed with his highschool friend, Eminem, and other rap legends like Dr. Dre and Ice Cube. 

Proof’s Childhood and Coming Up

Proof, born DeShaun Dupree Holton, was a founding member of the Detroit-based hip-hop group D12. Proof was born on October 2, 1973, and unfortunately, he passed away on April 11, 2006, at the age of 32. DeShaun Holton was raised by his single mother, Pepper Holton, in Detroit, Michigan. His father, who had a background in music production for rock bands and underground groups, left the family during Proof’s formative years. 

Initially attending a private school, Proof later transitioned to Osbourne High. During their teenage years, Holton and Marshall Mathers (Eminem) first crossed paths outside Holton’s predominantly black school, bonding over their shared love for hip-hop music. Adopting the moniker MC Proof, Holton joined forces with Eminem in the rap group Soul Intent. In a lighthearted manner, Eminem and Proof playfully referred to each other as “Doody.”

Eminem, another Detroit native, and Proof were big fans of the Detroit Pistons. During their NBA Finals runs in 2004 and 2005, Eminem, was featured prominently at their games. Also, millions tuned into network televisions and at the top online casinos in Michigan to live stream his Super Bowl LVII with live odds of his halftime performance with Rihanna. It’s unfortunate that Proof wasn’t alive to freestyle with him. 

Proof’s Early Career

• In 1992, Proof joined the local Detroit group “Soul Intent.”
• In 1995, Proof joined the group D12.
• During this time Proof worked with Eminem in his underground album “Infinite.”
• In 1996, Proof debuted his album “Anything.”
• In 2005, Proof release his last album “Searching for Jerry Garcia.”

Proof’s Run In with the Law 

DeShaun Holton encountered legal trouble in 2004 when he was arrested for the offense of “public possession of firearms” in conjunction with rapper Royce da 5’9″. Both were taken into custody on the same day for the same charges. Their time behind bars was only 30 days, during which they shared a cell and worked towards resolving their disputes. In an earlier incident, DeShaun Holton, Eminem, and Champtown were also taken into custody for shooting paintballs at unidentified individuals. However, none of them faced any sentencing for this particular offense.

Proof’s Rapping Feuds

Proof has been involved in headline worthy disputes with several notable rappers, such as Ja Rule, Royce da 5’9″, Canibus, and the renowned group Limp Bizkit. Within his solo track “Ja In A Bra” from the album “I Miss The Hip Hop Shop,” Proof skillfully directs his lyrical assault toward Ja Rule.

Who Was Proof Dating?

Proof Rapper married Sharonda Holton. She would give birth to three of his children. 

Proof’s Death

Proof was at the CCC Club in Detroit, Michigan, on April 11, 2006, engaging in a game of pool with Kieth Bender, Jr. Unfortunately, an altercation ensued between Proof and some other patrons of the CCC Club. Tragically, one of the individuals involved, Keith Bender, a veteran, was shot in the head by Holton. In a shocking turn of events, bouncer Mario Etheridge drew his firearm and fatally shot Holton, striking him three times, once in the head and twice in the chest, resulting in immediate death. 

A close friend of Proof, who preferred to remain unidentified, was standing beside him during this distressing incident, inadvertently getting some of Holton’s blood on his shirt. Acting swiftly, Proof’s friend carried him to his vehicle and promptly drove him to the hospital. Regrettably, upon arrival at the hospital, Proof was pronounced dead.

Pepper Holton, the mother of Proof, established The Proof Foundation following his passing. Numerous rappers have admired Proof and incorporated his life and death into their lyrics. Eminem, Proof’s closest friend, has dedicated songs such as “You’re Never Over” and “Going Through Changes” to address Proof’s untimely demise.

Eminem has openly shared that his decision to seek rehabilitation was driven by his desire to make Proof proud, as Proof had expressed his wish for Eminem to overcome his struggles with sobriety. In his 2009 album, Relapse, Eminem paid tribute to Proof by dedicating the entire album to him. Within the album booklet, Eminem expressed, “Proof, not a single day passes without thoughts of you. 

Quick Facts about Proof