The world knows Kid Cudi for his music, creativity, and emotional honesty. His songs talk about love, pain, and self-discovery. But behind this famous artist stands a man whose love and values shaped him deeply — his father, Lindberg Mescudi.
The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? is not just a name in the past. He was a teacher, painter, veteran, husband, and father who played a powerful role in shaping one of the most honest voices in music today. Even though he passed away when Cudi was only eleven, his lessons still guide his son’s journey.
Let’s explore The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? and how his story continues to live through Cudi’s songs, spirit, and success.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lindberg Styles Mescudi |
| Known For | Father of rapper and actor Kid Cudi (Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi) |
| Birthplace | Cleveland, Ohio, USA |
| Date of Birth | Late 1920s – Early 1930s (Exact date not publicly known) |
| Ethnicity | African-American and Mexican descent |
| Occupation | World War II Air Force Veteran, Painter, and Teacher |
| Military Service | U.S. Air Force Veteran |
| Artistic Background | Skilled painter known for creative expression |
| Family | Married to Elsie Harriet Mescudi; father to four children including Kid Cudi |
| Children | Dean, Domingo, Maisha, and Scott (Kid Cudi) Mescudi |
| Influence on Kid Cudi | Inspired Kid Cudi’s creativity and emotional depth in music |
| Death | 1995 |
| Cause of Death | Cancer |
| Legacy | Remembered as a caring father, educator, and artistic influence on his son’s career |
A Look at Lindberg’s Roots
The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? was born as Lindberg Styles Mescudi on June 21, 1927, in Cleveland, Ohio. His family came from a diverse and rich cultural background. His father, Charles Manitow Mescudi, was of Mexican descent, and his mother, Essie Viola Lawson, was African-American.
Growing up in a multicultural home, Lindberg learned about different traditions and values. He had five siblings — three older brothers, one younger brother, and one sister. This strong family bond taught him discipline, teamwork, and respect.
His roots gave him a deep sense of pride and identity. Being raised in such a diverse home helped him understand life from many perspectives. Those qualities would later be passed down to his children, especially Scott, who the world would know as Kid Cudi.
Service and Strong Work Ethics
The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? was a man of courage and commitment. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Air Force, showing bravery and a strong sense of duty to his country.
After completing his service, Lindberg returned home to Cleveland. He worked hard to support his family. He took on many roles — as a substitute teacher and as a house painter. These jobs were not glamorous, but they showed his dedication and honesty.
Lindberg believed in doing what was right, no matter how small the job. His strong work ethic became a foundation for his children. He taught them that success comes from effort, patience, and doing their best every single day.
He inspired his son Scott to dream big but to stay humble. Cudi later said that his father’s work ethic helped him push through struggles and never give up on his goals.
Love and Family Life
| Family Member | Relationship | Occupation / Role |
|---|---|---|
| Lindberg Mescudi | Father | Veteran, Teacher, Painter |
| Elsie Harriet Mescudi | Mother | School Choir Teacher |
| Domingo, Maisha, Dean | Siblings | Older Brothers & Sister |
| Scott Ramon Seguro Mescudi | Youngest Son | Known as Kid Cudi |
In 1979, Lindberg married Elsie Harriet Mescudi, a loving and talented woman who worked as a school choir teacher at Roxboro Middle School in Cleveland Heights. Even though Lindberg was 21 years older, their love was strong and full of understanding.
Together, they built a happy home. They had four children — Domingo, Maisha, Dean, and Scott, who became known to the world as Kid Cudi.
As a father, The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? was kind but firm. He valued education, respect, and honesty. He wanted his children to have dreams but also to stay grounded.
At home, music was a big part of their life. Elsie taught choir, and Lindberg supported her love for music. That environment helped shape young Scott’s interest in rhythm, lyrics, and creativity.
This close family bond gave Cudi the love and strength he needed to face the challenges of growing up.
A Heartbreaking Loss That Shaped a Star
In 1995, tragedy struck the Mescudi family. Lindberg passed away from cancer when Scott was only eleven years old. It was a heartbreaking moment that changed his life forever.
The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? had always been his son’s hero. Losing him so young left a deep emotional scar. Cudi has often spoken about how this loss affected his mental health, leading to feelings of sadness and loneliness during his teenage years.
Instead of hiding his pain, Cudi turned it into music. His songs like “Soundtrack 2 My Life”, “Solo Dolo”, and “The Prayer” all touch on his father’s memory and the emptiness he felt after losing him.
Fans around the world connected to that honesty. Through his lyrics, Cudi turned pain into healing, helping millions of people who felt the same way. Lindberg’s influence can be felt in every emotional line Cudi writes.
How Lindberg’s Legacy Lives On
Even though The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? passed away decades ago, his spirit continues to live through his son. The values he taught — kindness, hard work, and strength — still guide Cudi today.
Cudi often talks about his father as his greatest inspiration. He has said that his dad’s creativity and discipline helped him believe he could achieve anything.
Today, Cudi is not just a musician. He’s also a father. His daughter, Vada Wamwene Mescudi, was born in 2010. Her name, with Germanic and Kenyan origins, means “strength and purpose.”
To honor her, Cudi launched a sneaker line called “Vadawam 326,” which includes her birthdate in the name. Through his daughter, Cudi continues the family’s legacy of love and creativity that started with Lindberg.
Lindberg’s story shows that one person’s values can influence generations. His bravery, faith, and love still shine through his son’s art and life.
FAQ’s
Who was Lindberg Mescudi?
He was Kid Cudi’s father, a veteran, painter, and teacher from Cleveland, Ohio.
What was Lindberg’s background?
He had Mexican and African-American roots and grew up in a large, multicultural family.
When did Lindberg Mescudi pass away?
He passed away in 1995 from cancer when Kid Cudi was just eleven years old.
How did Lindberg influence Kid Cudi’s music?
His love, work ethic, and early death inspired many of Cudi’s emotional songs.
Did Lindberg serve in the military?
Yes, he served in the U.S. Air Force during World War II, showing great courage and discipline.
Conclusion
The Man Behind Kid Cudi: Who Was Lindberg Mescudi? was more than just a name in Cudi’s history. He was a veteran, father, teacher, and artist whose strength and love shaped one of today’s most honest musicians.
Even though he died young, his legacy lives through his son’s success, music, and values. Every lyric about pain, hope, and family carries a piece of Lindberg’s spirit.
Lindberg Mescudi taught his children that no matter how tough life gets, love and hard work can help you rise above it. That timeless lesson continues to inspire Kid Cudi — and everyone who listens to his music.

