Michael Harris

Death Row Records In the fall of 1991, Harris states he introduced his lawyer, David Kenner, to Suge Knight. Harris states he invested $1.5 million to co-found Godfather Entertainment with Knight, inclusive of the Death Row division. As it is illegal for a prisoner to run a business, Harris described his role as a "consultant" to his wife Lydia's role in the business. Knight disputes the substance of this financing story, instead stating the source of funding included Sony, Interscope, and Time Warner. Death Row subsequently generated hundreds of million of dollars in sales. After changing hands multiple times, Snoop Dogg purchased Death Row in 2022.

Clemency and activism Harris campaigned for early release from prison, after disavowing his prior criminal behavior and starting multiple educational programs in prison. On January 20, 2021, Harris's sentence was commuted by President Donald Trump. In October 2024, Harris endorsed Donald Trump in the 2024 United States presidential election.

Harris serves as chief operating officer of the newly formed Death Row Records, which is run by Snoop Dogg.

Harris's non-profit Our Community First Action drew praise from Donald Trump.

On May 28, 2025, Harris received a full and unconditional pardon by President Donald Trump.

Personal life Harris and wife Lydia divorced in 2005. Lydia has sung under the name Ms. Lydia. They have one daughter.