Successful 90s Hip Hop Artists: Where are they now?
The 90s was a golden era for Hip Hop, with iconic artists paving the way for the genre’s dominance in popular culture today. The Hip Hop artists of the 1990s, including the likes of JAY-Z, Snoop Dogg, Dr Dre and the late Tupac, were known for their unique style, bold lyrics, and their ability to connect with their audience.
One thing all these artists had in common - apart from their rhythmic beats - is the fact that their exclusive music also landed them being listed amongst some of the highest net-worth celebrities in their era. And, since we’re on the subject of exclusivity and money - many online casinos offer hundreds of slots themed around these artists’ music genres, with special bonuses up for grabs too.
Have you ever stopped to wonder where these artists are now and what they have been up to? Let’s take a look at some of the most successful 90s Hip Hop artists and find out if they’re still on top, struggling financially, or facing legal battles.
1. Snoop Dogg
Snoop Dogg is one of the most recognizable names in the music industry, and he’s still going strong. With a career spanning over three decades, Snoop has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, won multiple awards, and even started his own media company. He’s also ventured into acting and has become a TV personality, hosting a few popular shows. Snoop is living a high life, and his net worth is now estimated to be around $150 million.
2. Dr. Dre
Dr Dre is another legendary 90s rapper who’s still making waves in the industry. After leaving Death Row Records, Dre founded his own label, Aftermath Entertainment, and signed some of the biggest names in Hip Hop, including Eminem and 50 Cent. Dre has also become a successful producer, working with artists such as Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, and Anderson Paak. His net worth is estimated to be around $820 million, making him one of the richest musicians in the world.
3. JAY-Z
JAY-Z is a renowned Hip Hop mogul with a career spanning over 30 years. He’s sold over 75 million albums worldwide, won multiple awards, and has ventured into business, launching his own record label, Roc-A-Fella Records, as well as a clothing line, Rocawear. He’s also a successful entrepreneur with investments in tech, real estate, and sports. JAY-Z’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.4 billion, making him one of the richest musicians in the world.
4. Nas
Nas is said to be one of the most respected rappers in the game, with a career spanning over 30 years. He’s sold over 30 million albums worldwide, won multiple awards, and is known for his poetic lyrics and storytelling. It hasn’t been smooth sailing for Nas, as he has faced legal battles over financial disputes with various record labels. In 2005, Nas sued his label, Sony, for $10 million, claiming that they had withheld royalties and mismanaged his finances. Despite some turmoil along the way, Nas still commands an impressive net worth of around $70 million.
5. MC Hammer
MC Hammer, who rose to fame in the late 80s and early 90s, was one of the most successful and recognizable Hip Hop artists of his time. His hit single “U Can’t Touch This” became a cultural phenomenon and won multiple awards. However, despite his initial success, Hammer faced financial difficulties due to overspending and a decline in album sales. He was known for his extravagant lifestyle, which included a large entourage, expensive cars, and a mansion in California. In 1996, he filed for bankruptcy with debts totaling around $13 million, which at the time was one of the largest personal bankruptcies in history. Despite his financial struggles, Hammer continued to pursue his passion for music and has released several albums in the years since his bankruptcy. He has also ventured into other industries, including acting, producing, and entrepreneurship, and has been able to rebuild his career and financial stability over time.
6. Ice Cube
Ice Cube is another 90s iconic rapper who’s still working hard to this day. After leaving the group NWA, Cube launched a successful solo career and has sold over 10 million albums worldwide. He’s also ventured into acting, starring in several films, including 21 Jump Street and Barbershop. Cube is also a successful entrepreneur with investments in sports, film, and TV. His net worth is estimated to be around $160 million.
7. Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah is one of the most respected female rappers of all time, and she’s still making music and acting today. With a career spanning over 30 years, Latifah has sold over 2 million albums worldwide and has won multiple awards. She’s also a successful actress, with several film and TV credits to her name, and has even ventured into producing. Her net worth is estimated to be around $70 million.
8. Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott is another great female rapper whose career kicked off in the 1990s.. With a career spanning over 25 years, Elliott has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, won multiple awards, and has even been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. She’s also ventured into producing and has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. Despite her continued success in the music industry, Missy Elliot faced financial difficulties in the mid-2000s.
In 2008, she filed a lawsuit against her record label, Atlantic Records, claiming that they had withheld royalties and unfairly distributed profits. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court, with Elliott receiving a reported $2.4 million. In addition to her legal battles, Elliott also faced tax issues, owing the IRS over $400,000 in unpaid taxes in 2012.
In short, the 90s was a golden era for Hip Hop, and many of the artists who rose to fame during this time are still relevant today. While some have faced financial struggles or legal issues, others have become successful entrepreneurs and moguls. Regardless of their current status, these artists have left an indelible mark on the industry and will continue to be remembered as legends.
