There have been many rappers who have come and gone over the years. To find success in the music industry is a fleeting thing. But to find success not only in rap, but other business ventures, film, clothing, and the like? That’s something special. Here are three such rappers who have moved from the rap game to areas above and beyond.
Jay-Z
When you think of success stories within the music world, Jay-Z should be the first name to pop into mind. His was a rags-to-riches tale that has just gotten better with age. After the release of The Black Album in 2003, Jay-Z told the world that would be his last album. While this wasn’t the case, during this time he turned to other lucrative business ventures. He focused on the business side of music, becoming the president of Def Jam Records. Signings of Rihanna, Young Jeezy, Ne-Yo, and others to the label only helped to bolster his image. His Rocawear line of clothing, Roc-A-Fella films brand, clubs like the 40/40, and his part ownership in the New Jersey (soon to be Brooklyn) Nets, only added to his business mystique. Jay-Z is the definition of a true business man (Biography.com).
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Mos Def
Mos Def was once regarded as one of the most promising rappers out there. As he began to focus on acting, music became secondary for him. With acclaimed roles in Lackawanna Blues and Something the Lord Made — he earned a Golden Globe and an Emmy, respectively — Mos Def was on his way toward acting stardom. As a rapper/actor, he’s regarded by many as one of the most talented around. Starring in 16 Blocks, Be Kind Rewind, Cadillac Records, and the newest season of Dexter, Mos has proved that he’s not just a sensational rapper but an actor to be respected (MTV.com).
50 Cent
Always the consummate business man, 50 Cent gives other rappers/entrepreneurs a run for their money. With such endorsement deals as Vitamin Water, Reebok, Pontiac, and more, he’s pulling in some serious bank. His clothing line, G-Unit Clothing, pulled in $75 million in 2006. He’s released books, movies, and video games. 50 started a film production company called Cheetah Vision with Randall Emmett and he’s always looking to diversify, with real estate, the mining of platinum, and even dietary supplements and moisturizers, on his mind (Business Insider)?
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Honorable Mentions
- Shaquille O’Neal: First, is Shaq even a rapper? Second, can Kazaam be called a success?
- Snoop Dogg: He’s done films, TV, and music. Snoop’s done it all.
- Eminem: He starred as himself in 8 Mile and has a few more film projects currently in the works.
- Will Smith: He’s a pretty big one, but it depends if you count him as a rapper or not. If so, he’s one of the biggest stars in the world.
