Once again Music Mogul/Businessman/Entrepreneur, Diddy tops the “Forbes Five” hip-hop’s wealthiest artist of 2017 list.
With a staggering $820-million estate, Diddy is closing in on billionaire status and takes the crown of hip-hop’s wealthiest acts again. His fortune comes mostly from his very lucrative Ciroc deal with Diageo, Revolt TV network, alkaline water brand AquaHydrate, Deleon Tequila, his “Bad Boy Reunion Tour,” and other unspecified investments. No Dirty Money needed here (pun intended).
Jay-Z isn’t too far from Diddy and is sure to become a billionaire soon as well. If you combine his fortune with wifey, Beyoncé’s they’ve already reached billionaire status. Hov’s hefty bank comes from his TIDAL streaming service, which is worth more than 10x than what the rapper paid for it. Sprint’s $200-million investment in the company also doesn’t hurt. Jay is also making money from selling his Roc Nation logo, which he was paid $200-million for, as well as being a majority owner of Roc Nation, his film-TV deal with The Weinstein Company, and other side ventures.
Coming in at third place is LA’s very own, Dr. Dre. The Doctor is worth a reported $740-million with earnings from his 2014 selling of Beats headphones to Apple for $3-billion, a 14,000 square foot mansion in LA, which is now worth 20-percent more than the $40-million he purchased it for, other real estate property, royalties, and side ventures.
Birdman might not be paying his artists and maybe that’s why he’s eating so good. The Cash Money head-honcho takes the No. 4 slot with $110-million, thanks mostly to the success of Cash Money superstars like Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Lil Wayne. Put some “respek” on that.
Cash Money recording artist, Drake follows his boss with a No. 5 standing. Drizzy’s $90-million fortune is owed to the success of his music, touring, OVO record label and clothing, his Virginia Black whiskey, Apple music deal, and Nike and Jordan partnerships.
Who will become a billionaire first? Tell us in the comments below.
“FORBES FIVE” HIP-HOP LIST 2017
1. Diddy – $820 million
2. Jay Z – $810 million
3. Dr. Dre – $740 million
4. Birdman – $110 million
5. Drake – $90 million
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