Kasseem Dean Jr., the son of producer Swizz Beatz and singer Mashonda Tifrere, officially turned 18 on Sunday—and his family made sure the milestone was unforgettable.
Taking to Instagram, Swizz Beatz shared photos and videos from the special day, along with a touching message for his son.
He wrote, “HAPPY BIG 18th Birthday to Kasseem Dean JR @yayachronicles. We love you and celebrate you on this day and everyday young King. Keep going, don’t stop.”
Beatz revealed that the family had been keeping a major secret under wraps: Kasseem’s acceptance to NYU! “The amazing part was he didn’t know he was accepted—we saved the news for his Bday,” Swizz shared.
Mashonda, Kasseem’s mom, also marked the occasion with a sweet tribute. “18 years have passed, and my excitement for you remains as strong as ever. It has been a true pleasure to witness your growth and transformation into a remarkable young man,” she wrote.
Reflecting on the big NYU surprise, she added, “Keeping the news about NYU under wraps was quite a challenge; we wanted to surprise you on your birthday, surrounded by family. Your life is a profound blessing to all of us. Now, it’s GO TIME, time to embark on this new journey. Know that I will always be here by your side, my son. Thank you to my incredible co-parents. HAPPY BIRTHDAY”
Alicia Keys, Kasseem’s bonus mother, chimed in with her own loving tribute. “My amazing young king @yayachronicles!! You are totally unstoppable!! I’m so excited about every moment this year is going to bring!! This is just the beginning of things you can’t even imagine!”
She continued, “Keep working hard and bringing that light and gratitude, everywhere you go!!!! The blessings of tomorrow will be greater than we can ever imagine today!!! I love you Kassy!! Always your Umi!!! Congratulations on NYU babyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!! letssss gooooo!!!!!!!!”
Kasseem Jr. was born to Swizz Beatz and Mashonda born on Dec. 22, 2006. Swizz is now married to Alicia Keys, with whom he shares two younger children.
