Lil Jon Details Childhood Eye Injury in Upcoming Memoir

Rapper Lil Jon, born Jonathan Smith, will detail a childhood eye injury in his forthcoming memoir, "I Only Shout So You Can Hear Me," set for release on Tuesday. The incident, which occurred when he was six years old, resulted in him wearing sunglasses constantly.

Smith recounts in the memoir that he observed his mother, Carrie, administering insulin injections. Out of curiosity, he attempted to mimic the process with one of her syringes, accidentally stabbing himself in the eye. Doctors later diagnosed him with a "traumatic cataract from the needle."

The accident led to multiple surgeries, including a corneal transplant. During his school years, he wore a metal eye patch, which resulted in him being teased and bullied by his peers. Smith noted that being different at that age often led to such treatment.

Despite the bullying, Smith stated he used the negativity as motivation. "Whenever people have put me down," he said, "I used that as fuel in my fire to excel."

As an adult, the incident contributed to a lazy eye, requiring further surgery. However, Smith continues to wear sunglasses regularly. He also learned to play the drums shortly before the accident, which fostered his early passion for music.

Smith expressed a determination to overcome obstacles, stating, "I'm the type, if an obstacle is put in front of me, I'm going to figure out how to go through it, over it, under it, around it."