Forbes Magazine crowns the 2013 Top 5 Wealthiest Hip-Hop Artists in their April issue. These extraordinary businessmen and executives are not only the epitome of American success, but also an inspiration to millions of people across the globe. They continue to change the world and the face of corporate America.
Sean “Diddy” Combs, the founder and CEO of Bad Boy Entertainment ranked #1 with an estimated net worth of $580 million. This Harlem-born entrepreneur has always been the blueprint of success in the hip-hop genre. He is a marketing genius and blessed with the natural gift of making money. He has a lucrative Cîroc endorsement deal, which yields him eight figure payouts. Diddy also generates money from marketing firm Blue Flame, his clothing lines Sean John and Enyce, and of course his record label. If Diddy continues succeeding, he may finally be the first billionaire hip-hop artist.
Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter, the founder and CEO of Roc Nation comes in at #2 with a net worth of $475 million. Brooklyn’s favorite hustler elevates the rap game and continues to amaze his peers. He sold Rocawear in 2007 for about $204 million but retained his stake in the company. Jay-Z co-owns the upscale bar and lounge 40/40 Club, part owner of the Brooklyn Nets and has investments in Carol’s Daughter and The Barclays Center. He also has partnerships with the likes of Duracell, Budweiser, and Bacardi’s D’ussé Cognac. His critics still cannot knock his hustle!
Andre “Dr. Dre” Young, the founder and CEO of Aftermath Entertainment bring the noise at #3 with a net worth of $350 million. He is responsible for the success of some of the biggest names in the hip-hop world such as Snoop, Eminem, and 50 Cent. Dr. Dre’s exceptionally lucrative Beats By Dre brand comprises an estimated 65% of the premium headphones market. Once again, Dr. Dre changed the world with sound!
Bryan “Birdman” Williams, co-founder of Cash Money Records flies to the #4 spot with a net worth of $150 million. He makes money off his artists from the Cash Money/Young Money Empire such as Lil’ Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. He recently launched an YMCMB clothing line and his GT Vodka. Make that money, Birdman!
Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the founder and CEO of G-Unit Records ranked #5 with an estimated net worth of $125 million. His greatest business move was when he sold his Formula 50 vitamin drink water to Coca-Cola. He earned $100 million from the deal after taxes. 50 Cent has profitable endorsement deals with SMS Audio, SMS Promotions, and SK Energy. In addition, he has his own film company, Cheetah Vision. This Queens, NY native proves that he has a great gift at building brands, and I do not see this man slowing down any time.
I salute these amazing people, and I hope they keep diversifying their hustles!