Raif-Henok Emmanuel Kendrick is an American public figure. He is the first biological grandchild of music icon Diana Ross and Motown founder Berry Gordy. Born on August 7, 2009, in Los Angeles, California, Raif-Henok gained international media attention after appearing at major award shows. He notably introduced his grandmother at the 61st Annual Grammy Awards in 2019.
- Who is Raif-Henok Kendrick?
- Biography Table: Quick Facts
- Parents and Family Background
- Key Public Appearances and Viral Moments
- Net Worth and Future Aspirations
- Frequently Asked Questions About Raif-Henok Kendrick
- When was Raif-Henok Kendrick born?
- Who are Raif-Henok Kendrick’s parents?
- Who are Raif-Henok Kendrick’s grandparents?
- How did Raif-Henok Kendrick first gain public attention?
- Does Raif-Henok Kendrick have any siblings?
- What are Raif-Henok’s interests?
Who is Raif-Henok Kendrick?
Raif-Henok Emmanuel Kendrick belongs to American entertainment royalty. He is the son of singer-songwriter and actress Rhonda Ross Kendrick and jazz musician Rodney Kendrick. He grew up surrounded by deep artistic and musical influences. His family lineage connects him directly to the historic Motown era through his grandfather Berry Gordy and grandmother Diana Ross. This places him among the most closely followed members of the next generation of the Ross-Gordy family.
Biography Table: Quick Facts
- Full Name: Raif-Henok Emmanuel Kendrick
- Date of Birth: August 7, 2009
- Age: 16 years old (as of 2025)
- Place of Birth: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Parents: Rhonda Ross Kendrick (Mother) and Rodney Kendrick (Father)
- Grandparents: Diana Ross and Berry Gordy (Maternal)
- Aunts and Uncles: Tracee Ellis Ross, Evan Ross, Chudney Ross, Ross Naess
- Nationality: American
- Known For: Grammy Awards introduction speech (2019) and American Music Awards appearance (2017)
Parents and Family Background
Raif-Henok is the only child of Rhonda Ross Kendrick and Rodney Kendrick. His parents spent nearly a decade trying to conceive before welcoming him in 2009. His mother, Rhonda, is an Emmy-nominated actress, jazz vocalist, and public speaker. She is the daughter of Diana Ross and Berry Gordy. His father, Rodney Kendrick, is a respected jazz pianist. He has collaborated with notable artists like Abbey Lincoln and J.J. Johnson.
Raif-Henok grew up within this prominent musical dynasty and enjoys a grounded upbringing. His mother chose to homeschool him to accommodate his specific learning pace. This helped him develop multilingual skills at a young age, and he spoke multiple languages by his pre-teen years.
Key Public Appearances and Viral Moments
Raif-Henok keeps a private life away from constant tabloid media. However, he has stepped into the spotlight for a few high-profile family milestones:
- 2017 American Music Awards: He joined his grandmother Diana Ross on stage. He charmed audiences with his energetic dance moves and stage presence.
- 2019 Grammy Awards: At just nine years old, he delivered a poised introduction for Diana Ross. He told the audience that “nothing is beyond our reach,” creating a viral internet moment.
- Fashion Events: He has occasionally appeared at fashion showcases with family members. These appearances display an appreciation for style inherited from relatives like his aunt, Tracee Ellis Ross.
Net Worth and Future Aspirations
Raif-Henok Kendrick is a teenager focused on his education. He enjoys creative interests such as filmmaking, storytelling, and the arts. His personal financial figures are not officially disclosed. However, his extended family shares an estimated collective net worth rooted in decades of musical success. Diana Ross and Berry Gordy built monumental legacies in the global entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Raif-Henok Kendrick
When was Raif-Henok Kendrick born?
Raif-Henok Kendrick was born on August 7, 2009.
Who are Raif-Henok Kendrick’s parents?
His parents are singer-actress Rhonda Ross Kendrick and jazz musician Rodney Kendrick.
Who are Raif-Henok Kendrick’s grandparents?
His maternal grandparents are legendary entertainer Diana Ross and Motown Records founder Berry Gordy.
How did Raif-Henok Kendrick first gain public attention?
He gained widespread attention when he appeared on stage at the 2017 American Music Awards. He later delivered a memorable introduction for Diana Ross at the 2019 Grammy Awards.
Does Raif-Henok Kendrick have any siblings?
No, he is the only child of Rhonda Ross Kendrick and Rodney Kendrick.
What are Raif-Henok’s interests?
He is known for his academic pursuits, multilingual capabilities, and interest in creative arts, filmmaking, and storytelling.
