Jay-Z topped Forbes Magazine’s latest “Cash Kings List.” The list ranks hip-hop’s top earners. Jay-Z was easily #1 with $63 million in earnings over the last 12 months. Sean “Diddy” Combs was #2 with $30 million, followed by Akon with $21 million.
With album sales dropping, it’s no surprise that the top earners like Jay-Z and Diddy have plenty of income related to businesses other than selling albums. Jay-Z has nightclubs, is a part owner of the New Jersey Nets, has a fashion line, etc. Diddy has his own vodka, headphones, fashion line, and TV/film roles. Akon has his Konvict clothing line and benefited heavily from having Lady Gaga on his Kon Live label.
Kanye West took a big fall this year, going from $25 million last year to $12 million this year. 50 Cent, who was #1 in 2008 with $150 million (due to his VitaminWater deal), earned just $8 million this year. The biggest newcomer on the list was Drake with $11 million.
And for what it’s worth, Jay-Z isn’t the richest person in his family. Wife Beyonce brought in $87 million over the last 12 months.
Written by Michael Wash
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