Thuggizzle
Phillip Hodge (born May 12, 1984), known professionally as Thuggizzle, is an American rapper, entrepreneur, and philanthropist based in San Antonio, Texas. He is the founder of the nonprofit Thuggizzle Cares Inc. and the creator of Thuggizzle Appalachian Mountain Spring Water.[1]
Early life
Phillip Hodge spent much of his childhood in the foster care system after being placed into state custody at age nine due to his mother’s struggles with drugs.[1] During this period, he lived in more than 25 emergency shelters and group homes. A pivotal moment came when a staff member at the Baptist Children’s Home encouraged him to channel his trauma into music, planting the seed for his rap career.[1]
Career
Music
Thuggizzle is recognized for his freestyle rap style, earning acclaim for composing lyrics spontaneously without writing them down.[1] He initially performed as “Young Thugster” before adopting the moniker “Thuggizzle,” which blends “thug” with “izzle,” meaning “is him.” Over time, he incorporated more storytelling and reflective themes into his music. He has performed alongside artists such as Snoop Dogg and DMX.[1]
Entrepreneurship
In 2021, Hodge launched Thuggizzle Appalachian Mountain Spring Water, a can-based, eco-friendly water brand aimed at steering youth away from sugary drinks through vibrant packaging.[2] The Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk began offering his branded water to market guests and VIPs, highlighting support for local entrepreneurs.[3]
Philanthropy
Thuggizzle founded Thuggizzle Cares Inc., a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, built on his experiences in foster care. The organization's mission is to support at-risk individuals, couples, and families through education, advocacy, and innovative programs. It addresses numerous causes, including breast cancer, autism, and domestic violence.[4]
He also initiated the I Am Not Alone campaign, an outreach program providing a support platform for survivors of sexual abuse.[4] Additionally, Thuggizzle regularly donates water through his philanthropic efforts; for instance, he donated nearly 2,000 bottles from his water brand to the San Antonio Food Bank and local charities.[3] In 2025, Thuggizzle Cares was awarded Best Community Activist in San Antonio.[2]
Public perception
Thuggizzle has also been the subject of online cultural references. For example, Urban Dictionary features definitions for both "Phillip Hodge" and "Thuggizzle," reflecting his recognition in popular culture.[5][6]
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