Forbes List of Hip Hop’s Richest Revealed – Who is Number One?

Okay, I'm just a little ol'DJ on the radio, but If I was a baller I would definitely be on the Forbes Hip Hop List. Just take a look at the way these artist are moving up and down the chain. When it comes to making money in the hip-hop game, everybody is staring up at Jay-Z’s throne.

The 41-year-old rapper and mogul took in $37 million over the past year, making him the highest-earning hip-hop star. The $37 million includes record sales, a 10-year, $150 million deal with Live Nation and part ownership of the New Jersey Nets, among other investments.

The artist presently known as Sean “Diddy” Combs snagged the second spot, with $35 million in yearly earnings. Jay-Z’s current partner in rhyme, Kanye West, was third at $16 million.

Cash Money label mates Lil Wayne and Bryan “Birdman” Williams tied for fourth, with $15 million in earnings, while Eminem, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg were right on their heals at $14 million apiece.

[Forbes]

 

Believe it or not, a lot of these artists are very influential in their communities, especially when it comes to sharing the profits for their consumers. Decades ago, there was not even the possibility of any artist, especially a hip hop artist, making it on the charts