Jay-Z was Forbes’ first hip-hop billionaire.
Forbes reported in 2019 that Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter had reached billionaire status. The estimate included not only music income but also stakes in companies and investments associated with his business career, including entertainment, beverages, art and other ventures.
Jay-Z’s path is notable because his fortune grew beyond recorded music and performance. He co-founded Roc-A-Fella Records, built the Roc Nation entertainment company, and developed or invested in brands and businesses. Forbes’ assessment treated the combined value of these assets, after accounting for relevant liabilities, as the basis for the billionaire estimate.
The title is sometimes confused with “richest rapper,” which can change depending on the date and methodology. It also does not mean Jay-Z earned a billion dollars in one year. Forbes’ billionaire designation refers to estimated net worth, while annual musician lists measure income over a defined period.