There are perhaps more rappers in the entertainment industry today than ever. Since rap exploded on the scene in the late 80′s and early 90′s, many rappers have come and gone. Early rap leaders like N.W.A. and the Sugarhill Gang gave way to 90′s starts like Wu-Tang Clan and Outkast. As the popularity of these acts exploded in the 90′s, it became common place to rap about how much money you were making or how much of a better rapper you were than the guy who was calling you out. The bottom line of greatness today is how much money you can make when CD sales are no longer lucrative. Indeed, these great rappers are still able to make a great living even with the overall decline in CD sales.
1.) Eminem- Since bursting on to the scene in 1999, Eminem has quickly become one of the greatest and highest paid rappers in entertainment history. The rapper was discovered by Dr. Dre who also produces much of his music and acts as a frequent collaborator. For more than a decade, Eminem has churned out chart topping albums of fast paced, intelligent and often controversial rhymes. He has parlayed his success into a successful film and lucrative producing career.
2.) Lil Wayne- The man who does not write down a single rhyme can’t help but make a lot of money. That’s because he has a public willing to eat up whatever he puts out there and there is no shortage of raps in that brain. Weezy, as he is affectionately known, raps completely off the top of his head providing for a virtually unlimited source of income. As fast as the beats can be made, he can fill it with bar after bar of intelligent rhymes.
3.) Jay-Z- The biggest entrepreneur in rap history is also the richest. Jay-Z is not only a very skilled rapper but a business mogul to boot. He has his own record label and is also a minority owner of the New Jersey Nets professional basketball team.