Townes was one half of the musical duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince alongside Smith. The group received their first Grammy before they both starred in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" in 1989 for "Parents Just Don't Understand," and they went on to win one more for their 1991 single "Summertime" during "Fresh Prince"'s run.
After "Fresh Prince" ended, Townes continued to make music, both solo and with Smith. He's worked with major artists such as Mac Miller and Jill Scott, and he continues to work with Smith to this day, performing shows together around the world every few years.
Townes is married to Lynette C. Jackson, and he has two sons.