Dr. Dre, Jay-Z and Diddy have built fortunes by mastering hip-hop and delving into entrepreneurship.
Dr. Dre’s Beats By Dre gave him a financial boost to go along with the publishing he collects from his albums and production of Eminem and 50 Cent. Jay-Z’s partial ownership of the New Jersey Nets and his 40/40 franchises have allowed him to earn millions.
But Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Russell Simmons, 50 Cent and Birdman are all behind Diddy when it comes to the chase to reach billionaire status.
According Zack O’Malley of Forbes magazine, Diddy has the best shot at becoming hip-hop’s first billionaire. Diddy’s Bad Boy Worldwide is having trouble selling records, but his business ventures outside of hip-hop will likely get him to the billion-dollar mark.
Diddy’s most prized business venture is his interest in Ciroc. Once an obscure liquor brand, Ciroc’s sales have increased since Diddy joined the brand. It’s estimated that Diddy could take home up to nine figures if the company is sold within the next few years.
Diddy also earns over $100 million for his Sean Jean and Enyce clothing lines and Blue Flame marketing firm.
During a recent interview, Diddy downplayed his worth of $475 million. “… I take pride in building something as a black man that’s worth that much,” Diddy said. “To everyone calling me for a loan today, I do not have that money today.” –amir shaw
