Lontrell Williams: The Father of Pooh Shiesty and One of the Most Respected Men in the Streets of Memphis

#KRITICIZM - Lontrell Williams, widely known in Memphis as “Mob Boss,” is a name that carries weight in South Memphis. Long before his son Pooh Shiesty rose to national fame in the rap world, Lontrell had already built a reputation of his own—one rooted in the streets, business, and influence.

Coming up from the tough neighborhoods of South Memphis, Lontrell was originally known for his street activities during a time when Memphis was deeply shaped by drug money, hustling, and underground power structures. He had close ties to Ronnie Woods, a major kingpin in the city, and the two developed a relationship that further solidified Lontrell’s standing in the streets. In an era where respect often meant survival, Mob Boss became a figure people knew not to play with.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Lontrell expanded his influence beyond the streets by opening Club Martini, one of Memphis’ most popular nightclubs at the time. The club became a major hub in the city, attracting athletes, drug dealers, street figures, and up-and-coming rappers all under one roof. Club Martini wasn’t just a place to party—it was a networking ground where deals were discussed, relationships were built, and Memphis culture came together.

As the rap scene in Memphis continued to grow, Lontrell began transitioning into the music business. He launched his own independent label, Mob Ties Records, and started using his platform to help local artists. Through Club Martini, he gave rappers opportunities to perform, gain exposure, and connect with people who could help push their careers forward. In many ways, he played a behind-the-scenes role in nurturing Memphis’ street-rap ecosystem before it gained mainstream attention.

Like many figures from that era, Lontrell’s life wasn’t without legal trouble. At one point, he was caught up in a trap house while a search warrant was being executed. Authorities found drugs, guns, and more than $10,000 in cash in his possession. The case was serious, reflecting the dangerous lifestyle he had long been associated with. However, after serving his time, Lontrell was eventually released and is currently out today.

Now, Lontrell Williams is often viewed through a different lens. While his past is firmly rooted in the streets, his legacy also includes entrepreneurship, influence, and being the father of one of Memphis’ biggest rap stars. In the city, his name still commands respect—a reminder of a time when power, loyalty, and reputation meant everything in South Memphis.