Keith Sweat is a pioneering R&B and new jack swing singer known for hits like “I Want Her,” “Make It Last Forever,” and “Twisted.” While his music career has spanned decades, fans also search for details about his personal life, including his marriage, children, and family background.
Quick Facts: Keith Sweat Family
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Keith Douglas Sweat |
| Born | July 22, 1961 (Harlem, New York) |
| Parents | Charles Sweat and Juanita Sweat |
| Siblings | Four siblings (one of five children) |
| Ex-Wife | Lisa Wu (married 1992–2002) |
| Children | Multiple (including Jordan, Justin, and others) |
| Current Status | Divorced / appears single |
Early Life and Parents
Keith Sweat was born in Harlem, New York, to Charles Sweat, a factory worker, and Juanita Sweat, a hairdresser. His father died in 1973 when Keith was only 12 years old. Juanita raised Keith and his four siblings largely on her own in Harlem, near the Apollo Theater, which later became an important part of his early performing life.
Marriage to Lisa Wu
Keith Sweat’s only marriage was to Lisa Wu (also known as Lisa Wu-Hartwell). The couple married in 1992 and divorced in 2002 after 10 years together.
Lisa Wu later became known to a wider audience through her appearance on The Real Housewives of Atlanta. After the divorce, the pair had a publicized custody dispute. Keith was awarded primary custody of their two sons.
As of recent public statements (2025–2026), Keith Sweat has indicated he is single and has not remarried.
Children
Keith Sweat has children from his marriage to Lisa Wu and from other relationships.
With Lisa Wu:
- Jordan Sweat (born 1995)
- Justin Sweat (born 1998)
These two sons were the subject of the custody proceedings after the divorce. Keith has spoken about being an involved father.
Other children: Multiple reliable sources state that Keith also has additional children from previous relationships. These include daughters (often named as Keyshia/Keisha and Keia) and a son named Joshua. The exact total is commonly listed as between four and six children, though some details about the other children’s mothers and birth years remain private.
Keith has generally kept his children’s lives out of the intense public spotlight.
Siblings and Extended Family
Keith is one of five children. After his father’s death, his mother Juanita raised the family. Public information about his individual brothers and sisters is limited, as they have largely stayed private.
Career Context
Keith rose to fame in the late 1980s as a key figure in the new jack swing movement. He has released numerous solo albums, formed the group LSG (with Gerald Levert and Johnny Gill), and discovered acts such as Silk and Kut Klose. He continues to tour and perform into the 2020s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Keith Sweat married to?
He was married to Lisa Wu (Lisa Wu-Hartwell) from 1992 to 2002.
Does Keith Sweat have children?
Yes. He has two sons with Lisa Wu (Jordan and Justin) and additional children from other relationships.
Is Keith Sweat currently married?
No. He has been divorced since 2002 and has stated in recent years that he is single.
Who are Keith Sweat’s parents?
His parents were Charles Sweat (who died when Keith was 12) and Juanita Sweat.
How many siblings does Keith Sweat have?
He is one of five children, so he has four siblings.
Where is Keith Sweat from?
He was born and raised in Harlem, New York.
Sources & Accuracy Note This article is based on publicly available biographical information, including Wikipedia, major entertainment profiles, and reporting on Keith Sweat’s marriage and family. Some details about his additional children remain private. Last updated: August 2026.
