Daniel Curtis Lee is an American actor, comedian, and rapper who has a net worth of $1 million.

Daniel Curtis Lee is best known for his work on two of the most recognizable youth-oriented television series of the 2000s. He rose to prominence as Simon Nelson "Cookie" Cook on Nickelodeon's "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide," where his rapid-fire delivery and eccentric intelligence made him one of the show's breakout characters.

He later became a fixture for a new generation of viewers as Kojo on Disney XD's "Zeke and Luther," cementing his reputation as a reliable ensemble performer in long-running youth television. Unlike many actors who remained narrowly identified with childhood roles, Lee steadily expanded his career into adult television, independent film, and behind-the-camera work. Parallel to acting, he has built an extensive music catalog as a rapper, singer, and songwriter, while also pursuing writing, directing, editing, and producing. Over time, his career has evolved into a multidisciplinary creative path that blends performance, storytelling, and music.

Early Life

Daniel Curtis Lee was born on May 17, 1991, in Jackson, Mississippi, and spent part of his childhood in Clinton. He began acting professionally at age seven and later moved to California, where his career accelerated. He balanced working in Hollywood with his education, eventually earning a college degree in linguistics from California State University, Long Beach. He is known to speak multiple languages, an interest that reflects his academic background.

Breakthrough and Nickelodeon Fame

Lee's first major film appearance came in "Friday After Next," where he played Bad Boy #2 in the 2002 holiday comedy. His defining breakthrough followed soon after when he was cast as Cookie on "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide," which aired from 2004 to 2007 and starred Devon Werkheiser as Ned and Lindsey Shaw as Moze. Cookie's hyper-intelligent, unpredictable energy made him a fan favorite and a central part of the show's identity, contributing to its long-lasting popularity in syndication and streaming.

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Disney XD and Continued Television Work

From 2009 to 2012, Lee starred as Kojo on Disney XD's "Zeke and Luther," appearing in more than 70 episodes. The role introduced him to a slightly older audience and allowed him to stretch into broader physical comedy and ensemble storytelling. He later appeared in series such as "Glee," "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," "9-1-1," "NCIS," and "Monster," often taking on sharply defined guest roles.

Film, Music, and Creative Expansion

In film, Lee has worked across independent and genre projects, including "Sundown," "Evening Installation," and "Payment Received." He is also an accomplished musician with hundreds of songs to his credit. In recent years, he has increasingly focused on writing and directing, including work on projects such as "The Time Travel Hills," reflecting a broader shift toward creative control and long-term storytelling beyond acting alone.

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Lil Mama is an American rapper, actress, and reality television personality who has a net worth of $2 million. Lil Mama had her career breakthrough with her 2007 hit single "Lip Gloss," which was subsequently included on her 2008 debut album "VYP (Voice of the Young People)." Among her activities since then, she has released further hit songs; served as a judge on the MTV dance competition show "America's Best Dance Crew"; starred in the television films "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story" and "When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story"; and appeared as a cast member in the "Growing Up Hip Hop" reality TV franchise.

Early Life

Lil Mama, whose real name is Niatia Kirkland, was born on October 4, 1989 in New York City. She has several siblings, including the rapper and dancer known as Arnstar. Kirkland's mother, Tara, passed away in late 2007 from breast cancer. Subsequently, Kirkland and her older brothers took guardianship of their younger siblings.

Music Career

Lil Mama released her debut single, "Lip Gloss," in mid-2007. It ended up peaking at number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Lil Mama's signature song. Also in 2007, Lil Mama was featured on the official remix of Avril Lavigne's hit single "Girlfriend." Lil Mama went on to release her debut album, "VYP (Voice of the Young People)," in 2008; supported by "Lip Gloss" as the lead single, the album reached number 25 on the Billboard 200. The same year, Lil Mama was featured on the song "Baby Baby" from Karina Pasian's debut studio album "First Love."

Kicking off the 2010s, Lil Mama released the singles "Doughboy" and "Hustler Girl." Her singles in 2011 were "Scrawberry," "On & On & On," and "NY NY LA LA," the lattermost featuring Snoop Dogg. In late 2015, over seven years after her first album, Lil Mama released the mixtape "Take Me Back." Its singles were "Sausage" and "Too Fly." The following year, Lil Mama released the non-album singles "Summer Sixteen," "4pm," and a remix of Rihanna's "Work." In 2018, she was featured on Drake Bell's song "Call Me When You're Lonely."

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Reality Television

In 2008, Lil Mama became a judge on the new MTV dance competition series "America's Best Dance Crew." She originally sat on the judging panel alongside JC Chasez and Shane Sparks. Lil Mama was later joined by Omarion and then D-Trix. She left the show after its seventh season in 2012. Lil Mama had a big year on television in 2018, competing on MTV's "The Challenge: Champs vs. Stars" and VH1's "Hip Hop Squares" and starring in the second part of the second season of the WE tv reality series "Growing Up Hip Hop: Atlanta." On the latter, she appeared alongside Kiyomi Leslie, Masika Kalysha, Ayana Fite, Deb Antney, and Da Brat, among other cast members. In 2019, Lil Mama continued her association with the "Growing Up Hip Hop" franchise as part of the recurring cast of "Growing Up Hip Hop: New York."

Acting Career

Lil Mama made her major acting debut in the 2013 VH1 biographical television film "CrazySexyCool: The TLC Story." She portrayed TLC member Lisa Lopes, with Keke Palmer portraying Rozonda Thomas and Drew Sidora as Tionne Watkins. Lil Mama returned to acting in 2017 to star in another biographical television film, "When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story." In this one, she portrayed the titular teen mom-turned-stripper who killed three men with her pimp Dino. The film premiered on TV One. Lil Mama went on to have a small recurring role in the first season of the CW sports drama series "All American" in 2018. Since then, she has appeared in such films as "All In," "True to the Game 2" and "True to the Game 3," "Fruits of the Heart," and "A Hip Hop Story."

Speeding Incident

In 2016, Lil Mama was arrested in Harlem for driving 38 mph in a zone with a 25 mph speed limit. Her license was consequently revoked.

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Fatlip is an American rapper who has a net worth of $1 million. Fatlip rose to fame in the 1990s as a member of the Los Angeles-based hip hop group the Pharcyde, with which he released the albums "Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde" (1992) and "Labcabincalifornia" (1995). He launched his solo career in 2005 with the album "The Loneliest Punk."

Early Life

Fatlip, whose real name is Derrick Stewart, was born on March 26, 1969 in Los Angeles, California.

Career Beginnings

Stewart began his career in the late 1980s as a dancer under the name Jammer D. Through the Los Angeles dance scene, he met future collaborators Slimkid3, Imani, and Bootie Brown and became the artist known as Fatlip.

The Pharcyde

Fatlip came to prominence as a member of the hip hop group the Pharcyde, which was formed in 1991. He was joined by friends Imani, Slimkid3, and Bootie Brown. The group went on to sign a contract with Delicious Vinyl Records. In late 1992, the Pharcyde released its debut album, "Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde," which received major critical acclaim for its playful and lush style. The album spawned the hit single "Passin' Me By," which peaked atop the Hot Rap Songs chart. Although "Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde" itself had underwhelming sales, the album was credited with helping to usher in a new alternative hip hop scene on the West Coast, and eventually became regarded as a classic of the genre. The Pharcyde went on to release its second album, "Labcabincalifornia," in late 1995. Supported by the hit singles "Drop" and "Runnin'," it reached number 37 on the Billboard 200. In 1997, Fatlip was kicked out of the Pharcyde amid tensions with the other group members.

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Solo Career

In late 2005, Fatlip released his debut solo album, "The Loneliest Punk." The title of the album is a play on the name of legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk. Among the tracks on the album was "What's Up, Fatlip?," which was featured on the soundtrack to the skateboarding video game "Tony Hawk's American Wasteland." Over the years following the release of "The Loneliest Punk," Fatlip collaborated on songs with various other artists. In 2007, he was featured on the song "The Salmon Dance" by the English electronic music duo the Chemical Brothers. The year after that, Fatlip appeared on two tracks from the album "Clin D'Oeil" by the French group the Jazz Liberatorz. He subsequently appeared on two tracks from the group's next album, "Fruit of the Past." Around this time, Fatlip appeared on Neon Neon's album "Stainless Style" and N.A.S.A.'s debut album "The Spirit of Apollo." In 2012, he collaborated with his former Pharcyde group member Slimkid3 on the album "Love."

In 2016, Fatlip collaborated on the song "Playtimee Over" with Boston rapper Edo G. The following year, he was featured on the song "Mr. Lonely" by the rock band Portugal. The Man, from the band's album "Woodstock." In 2019, Fatlip was featured on the song "Aw Hell You Motherfuckin' Right" from Toronto rapper the Mighty Rhino's album "A Joy Which Nothing Can Erase." Kicking off the 2020s, he collaborated with Blu and Hemlock Ernst on the song "Good for the Soul" and with Percee P and Phil Da Agony on the song "For You." In the summer of 2022, Fatlip released his second solo album, "Torpor," which was his first album in close to 17 years. Its singles included "Dust in the Wind," "Wake Up," and "My Bad," the last of which was recorded by all four original members of the Pharcyde. Fatlip went on to release his first live album, "Live from the End of the World," in 2023. It features fellow rapper Blu.

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Chingo Bling is a Mexican American rapper and producer who has a net worth of $2 million. Chingo Bling has carved out a unique place in hip hop through sharp humor, entrepreneurial drive, and Mexican American representation. Emerging from Houston's independent rap scene, he built a multimedia brand long before social platforms made that common. His early mixtapes blended Southern hip hop with comedic skits and social satire, helping him develop a cult following.

Chingo Bling rose to prominence through albums like "They Can't Deport Us All" and "Duro en la Pintura," which showcased his mix of bilingual lyricism, cultural pride, and parody-driven marketing. While known for humor and controversy, he also proved to be a savvy businessman, expanding into stand up comedy, indie films, podcasts, and merchandise. Over time, he became an influential voice within Latino entertainment and an early example of an artist using independent distribution to build a devoted audience outside traditional industry structures.

Early Life

Chingo Bling was born Pedro Herrera III and raised in a Mexican American family in Houston. His parents instilled a strong work ethic and entrepreneurial mindset, which became fundamental to his later career. He attended Trinity University, where he studied business and communication. The mix of academic training and cultural identity gave him the foundation to experiment with branding and satire when he began pursuing music.

Early Career

Chingo Bling started his career independently, pressing his own CDs, selling merchandise from the trunk of his car, and promoting himself relentlessly throughout Texas. His mixtapes gained traction partly because of their humor, partly because of their bilingual delivery, and partly because of his over-the-top persona. He used parody-inspired imagery and slogans to stand out in a crowded regional hip hop market. Early songs connected with audiences who appreciated his blend of comedy and commentary.

Rise To Prominence

His 2007 album "They Can't Deport Us All" became his national breakthrough. Although controversial, it highlighted his skill as both a rapper and satirist, addressing immigration and Latino identity through humor and defiance. The project expanded his fan base and brought attention from major labels and media outlets. Chingo Bling followed it with albums such as "Tamale Kingpin," "Duro en la Pintura," and numerous mixtapes that circulated heavily across the South and Southwest. Throughout this period, he appeared alongside artists like Baby Bash, Paul Wall, and other Houston rappers who were shaping the region's sound.

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Comedy, Film, And Media Expansion

Chingo Bling built a second career as a comedian, performing stand up and releasing comedy specials that showcased his ability to comment on culture and politics. He also wrote, produced, and starred in independent films, often blending scripted comedy with musical elements. His podcast and digital content kept him visible with younger audiences, and he frequently collaborated with other Latino creators. His talent for branding allowed him to sell merchandise, apparel, and novelty items tied to both his comedy and rap personas.

Music After The 2010s

While he shifted more of his energy toward comedy, Chingo Bling continued releasing music through independent channels, including Spanish language projects and collaborations within Texas's hip hop and regional Mexican scenes. His albums and mixtapes remained rooted in humor but also addressed social topics affecting Mexican American communities. His independence gave him freedom to experiment with formats and styles without label pressure.

Personal Life

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Baby Bash is a Mexican-American rapper who has a net worth of $3 million. Rising from regional fame in the Texas rap scene to mainstream success in the early 2000s, he developed a reputation for melodic hooks, relaxed delivery, and a knack for collaborations that amplified his visibility.

He first attracted national attention with the hit single "Suga Suga," a smooth, guitar driven track featuring Frankie J that became a defining song of the era and pushed his album "Tha Smokin' Nephew" to gold status. Over the next decade, Baby Bash balanced commercial hits with steady output in the Latin music market, releasing albums, mixtapes, and high performing singles while frequently partnering with artists such as Paula DeAnda, T-Pain, Pitbull, Akon, and E-40. His crossover appeal helped him sustain a long career outside typical industry cycles, and he eventually built a following not just in the U.S. but throughout Mexico and South America. Along the way, he evolved into a respected songwriter and collaborator, contributing to tracks for artists like Frankie J, Chingo Bling, and various regional Mexican and R&B performers. Baby Bash remained a consistent touring act and continued releasing new music across streaming platforms, rooted in the melodic West Coast and Texas influenced style that established him.

Early Life

Baby Bash was born Ronnie Ray Bryant and raised in a bicultural household in Vallejo, California. His father and uncles were professional musicians, which exposed him to rhythm and performance from an early age. Much of his childhood was shaped by the influence of his grandmother, who helped raise him, and by the extended time he spent between his family in California and relatives in Houston. Originally, he did not envision a career in music. He hoped to pursue professional basketball and played throughout high school until an ankle injury changed his path. That setback eventually redirected him toward the local rap scene, where he discovered he could channel his creativity and natural ear for melody into songwriting.

Early Career

Baby Bash's earliest musical steps took place in the Northern California rap community. During the 1990s, he joined several local groups, most notably Potna Deuce, and performed under the name Baby Beesh. These early years gave him the foundation to experiment with melody, hooks, and vocal blends that would later define his solo career. His connections with the rising Texas hip hop movement, particularly in Houston, helped expand his sound and his audience. During his time collaborating across California and Texas, he transitioned into a solo artist and shortened his name to Baby Bash.

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Breakthrough And Mainstream Success

The early 2000s marked Baby Bash's commercial rise. After signing with Universal Records, he released the 2003 album "Tha Smokin' Nephew," which became his breakthrough. The single "Suga Suga" featuring Frankie J reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and sold more than a million copies. It established him as a national artist with a signature mellow sound. He followed this success with the 2005 album "Super Saucy," which included the hit single "Baby I'm Back" featuring Akon. The track again broke into the upper tiers of the Billboard charts and affirmed Baby Bash's ability to create radio friendly collaborations that traveled across markets.

The girl who starred as the "UPS Delivery Girl" in the "Suga Suga" video is Jessica Sutta. A few weeks after this video was filmed, she became one of the Pussycat Dolls.

Continued Music Career

After his initial mainstream run, Baby Bash maintained a steady presence in both English and Spanish language markets. He collaborated frequently with Chicano and Latin artists and became a go to partner for R&B singers looking for a crossover hit. His albums "Cyclone" (2007) and "Bashtown" (2011) produced additional popular tracks, including "Cyclone" featuring T-Pain and Mickael, which performed well on the Hot 100.

As streaming reshaped the industry, he adapted by releasing singles, mixtapes, and joint projects that kept his audience engaged. He has recorded with artists spanning multiple genres, from Paul Wall and E-40 to Miguel, Beck G, and Pitbull. This versatility allowed him to maintain relevance far beyond his early 2000s chart peak.

Other Projects

Outside of his recording career, Baby Bash became involved in songwriting, mentorship, and small scale entrepreneurial ventures, including cannabis related businesses that connected to his longtime personal brand. He also appeared in independent films and music oriented projects and routinely toured U.S. cities with large Latino fan bases.

Real Estate

In January 2019, Baby Bash paid around $600,000 for a home in Montgomery, Texas. The 4,400-square-foot home sits on a third of an acre in a private community and is worth around $1 million today.

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Daz Dillinger is an American hip-hop recording artist and record producer who has a net worth of $300 thousand. Best known for his work with Death Row Records, Daz Dillinger's production helped define the G-funk sound that dominated radio and shaped the identity of artists like Snoop Dogg, Tupac Shakur, Nate Dogg, Kurupt, and Dr. Dre. As one half of Tha Dogg Pound with Kurupt, he delivered multi-platinum hits, gritty street anthems, and some of the most memorable tracks from the golden era of Los Angeles rap. Behind the scenes he was a prolific producer, contributing heavily to landmark albums including Snoop's "Doggystyle", Tupac's "All Eyez on Me", and Tha Dogg Pound's "Dogg Food". His career extended far beyond the Death Row era. Daz went on to establish his own label, release dozens of solo and collaborative projects, and maintain a long presence in independent hip hop. In later years he became known for his outspoken interviews, YouTube commentary, and public disputes over music ownership and royalties, including a renewed feud with Snoop Dogg in 2025.

Early Life

Daz Dillinger was born Delmar Drew Arnaud on May 25, 1973, in Long Beach, California. He grew up in a musically inclined family and gravitated toward hip hop at a young age. His cousin Calvin Broadus, later known as Snoop Dogg, also began rapping during this period, and the two developed a close creative relationship as teenagers.

Rise at Death Row Records

Daz joined Death Row Records in the early 1990s as one of the youngest in-house producers on the roster. Dr. Dre recognized his potential and frequently used him as an understudy and collaborator. Daz contributed production to Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle" and became an essential part of the label's creative engine.

In 1995 he and Kurupt released Tha Dogg Pound's debut album "Dogg Food", a chart-topping project that showcased their chemistry and solidified their place in the West Coast hierarchy. Daz's production on Tupac's "All Eyez on Me", particularly the single "Ambitionz Az a Ridah", remains some of the most celebrated work of the era.

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Independent Career

After the collapse of Death Row, Daz went independent and launched DPGC Records. He released a steady stream of projects including "R.A.W.", "Dillinger & Young Gotti", "Witit Witit", and multiple Dogg Pound reunions with Kurupt. His work ethic kept him active well into the 2010s and 2020s, collaborating with artists across the West Coast and maintaining a loyal international fan base.

Ongoing Feud With Snoop Dogg

Although Daz and Snoop are cousins and longtime collaborators, their relationship has been strained for more than a decade. In interviews dating back to the early 2010s, both have alluded to disagreements over business, loyalty, and the direction of their careers.

The conflict resurfaced sharply in late 2025 when Daz accused Snoop of trying to push him off Death Row's roster after Snoop acquired the brand. Daz claimed Snoop attempted to take control of his publishing and trademark his work without consent. He repeated the allegation on YouTube, stating that the catalog was being positioned for a major sale.

Snoop responded with a viral video telling Daz to stop publicly attacking him and warning that he would retaliate "business wise". Their dispute reignited widespread conversation about Death Row's legacy, catalog ownership, and internal family tensions. Leading up to the feud, Daz had hinted at a possible diss track and released "Retaliation, Revenge And Get Back 3" in September.

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K'naan is a Somali-Canadian rapper, singer-songwriter, and filmmaker who has a net worth of $1 million. K'naan rose to fame in Canada with his 2009 single "Wavin' Flag," which then made him an international star when it was used as Coca-Cola's promotional anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. In 2024, he won the Grammy Award for Best Song for Social Change for his track "Refugee," and also won the FIPRESCI Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival for his film directorial debut "Mother Mother."

Early Life

K'naan, whose real name is Keinan Abdi Warsame, was born on February 1, 1978 in Mogadishu, Somalia. His family had a strong artistic legacy, as his grandfather was a famed poet and his aunt was a renowned singer. This influenced K'naan, who grew up surrounded by the arts. However, his peace was disrupted by the Somali Civil War, during which he narrowly avoided death. Due to the violence, K'naan moved with his mother and siblings Liban and Sagal to the United States, where his father had already been living and working. They resided in New York City for some months before relocating to Ontario, Canada and settling in Toronto. There, K'naan learned English and started rapping.

Career Beginnings

In Canada, K'naan became connected with promoter Sol Guy, who helped get him a speaking engagement in 1999 before the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. K'naan used his time by performing a spoken word piece denouncing the UN for its failed peacekeeping efforts in Somalia. In the audience was Senegalese singer Youssou N'Dour, who was so impressed he invited K'naan to contribute to his album and go on tour with him. K'naan went on to perform at other UN events, as well, and also at music festivals.

Albums and Singles

After self-releasing the album "My Life is a Movie" in 2004, K'naan had his major-label debut in 2005 with "The Dusty Foot Philosopher," which was released by BMG. Lauded by critics, it went on to win the Juno Award for Rap Recording of the Year. In 2007, K'naan released his first live album, "The Dusty Foot on the Road." He had his greatest commercial success with his 2009 studio album "Troubadour," which charted in Canada, the US, Mexico, Austria, Switzerland, and Japan, among other countries. Moreover, it launched the hit single "Wavin' Flag," which became an international sensation when Coca-Cola used it as its promotional anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The version used by Coca-Cola, which had added lyrics, charted in the top ten in numerous countries around the globe.

In early 2012, K'naan released his first EP, "More Beautiful Than Silence." It yielded the hit single "Is Anybody Out There?," featuring fellow Canadian singer-songwriter Nelly Furtado. The single charted in several countries, reaching number one in New Zealand and going Platinum in Canada. "Is Anybody Out There?" became the lead single from K'naan's album "Country, God or the Girl," which was released later in 2012. The album's other singles were "Nothing to Lose" and "Hurt Me Tomorrow." K'naan didn't release another single as a lead artist until 2023, with the non-album single "Refugee." For the track, he won the Grammy Award for Best Song for Social Change.

In addition to his own albums, K'naan has contributed to many albums by other artists over the years. In the '00s, he contributed to M-1's album "Confidential," Amadou & Mariam's album "Welcome to Mali," Keane's EP "Night Train," and Wale's album "Attention Deficit." His credits in the 2010s included collaborations with such artists as Damian Marley, Nas, Simple Plan, KRS-One, and composer Howard Shore. K'naan also performed in the music video "Immigrants (We Get the Job Done)," which was part of Lin-Manuel Miranda's "The Hamilton Mixtape." In the early 2020s, K'naan was featured on Sharma Boy's songs "Waayo Waayo" and "Somalia Somali Baa Leh."

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Television and Film

In 2007, K'naan appeared on the MTV Canada reality show "4Real," which featured celebrity guests visiting local communities to discuss challenges facing the area. Later, in 2012, K'naan played rap artist Brutha Fez in David Cronenberg's film "Cosmopolis," based on the novel of the same name by Don DeLillo. He also contributed to the soundtrack. At the end of the decade, K'naan wrote the second episode of the second and final season of the Hulu supernatural horror series "Castle Rock." He went on to make his film directorial debut in 2024 with the drama "Mother Mother," which he also wrote. Focused on a widowed mother in Somalia, it won the FIPRESCI Prize at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Still intimately connected with his Somali roots, K'naan has been active in philanthropy and advocacy related to both Africa and the Toronto Somali community. In 2011, he became a spokesperson alongside Bono to raise awareness of the drought in East Africa. K'naan has also supported the Islamic Courts Union and has vocally opposed the clan system used in Somalia and among immigrant communities in Canada.

Personal Life

K'naan was previously married to a pharmacy technician named Deka, with whom he had two sons. The couple divorced ahead of K'naan's tour with Coca-Cola for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

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Pop Smoke was an American rapper who had a net worth of $2 million at the time of his death. Pop Smoke rose to fame with his singles "Welcome to the Party" and "Dior," both from his 2019 debut mixtape "Meet the Woo." Twelve days after the release of his second mixtape, "Meet the Woo 2," Pop Smoke was murdered in a home invasion in Los Angeles. A pair of hit studio albums were posthumously released.

Early Life and Education

Pop Smoke, whose real name was Bashar Barakah Jackson, was born on July 20, 1999 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City to Jamaican mother Audrey and Panamanian father Greg. He had an older brother named Obasi. Jackson attended nine different schools as a child before he was expelled in the eighth grade for bringing a gun to school. He subsequently spent two years under house arrest. Jackson went on to attend Rocktop Academy in Philadelphia, although he eventually left.

Career

Using the rap name Pop Smoke, Jackson released his debut single, "Welcome to the Party," in the spring of 2019. A drill track, it earned positive reviews and spawned a popular remix with Nicki Minaj. The single was included on Pop Smoke's debut mixtape, "Meet the Woo," which came out a few months later. "Meet the Woo" debuted at number 173 on the Billboard 200 and peaked at number 105 following Jackson's passing. It also charted in many other countries, including Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands. The mixtape's third single, "Dior," became a posthumous hit for Pop Smoke when it reached number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 2020. Before that, Pop Smoke released such singles as "War," "Drive the Boat," "100k on a Coupe," and "Christopher Walking," and was featured on JackBoys' hit single "Gatti." He released his second mixtape, "Meet the Woo 2," on February 7, 2020, less than two weeks before he was murdered. A major hit, the album charted around the globe and debuted at number seven on the Billboard 200.

Following Pop Smoke's death, rapper 50 Cent decided to executive produce and finish Pop Smoke's debut studio album. The album, entitled "Shoot for the Stars, Aim for the Moon," was released in July of 2020. In addition to debuting atop the Billboard 200 and spending several weeks at number one on both the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums and Top Rap Albums charts, the album had all 19 of its tracks chart on the Billboard Hot 100. It also reached number one in several other countries. Among the album's biggest hit singles were "The Woo," "Mood Swings," "For the Night," and "What You Know Bout Love." A second posthumous studio album by Pop Smoke, "Faith," came out in July of 2021. Like its predecessor, it debuted atop the Billboard 200 and reached number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Singles from the album included "Mr. Jones," featuring Future, and "Woo Baby," featuring Chris Brown. Also in 2021, Pop Smoke had a small acting role in Eddie Huang's film "Boogie," which featured Pop Smoke's song "AP."

(Photo by SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty Images)

Grand Theft Auto Charge

Upon returning from Paris Fashion Week in early 2020, Jackson was arrested by federal authorities at John F. Kennedy International Airport for stealing a Rolls-Royce Wraith. The owner of the car reported that Jackson stole it after he had originally borrowed it in California for a music video shoot. Authorities recovered the vehicle at the house of Jackson's mother in Brooklyn. Following the arrest, police questioned Jackson about a non-fatal shooting that had occurred in Brooklyn in mid-2019 and tried to pressure him to disclose information about various Brooklyn street gangs. He was ultimately charged with grand theft auto and was warned to stay away from known gang members.

Murder

On February 19, 2020, Jackson was murdered and robbed in a home invasion in the Hollywood Hills. Through Airbnb, he had been renting the house of reality television personality Teddi Mellencamp Arroyave and her husband, Edwin Arroyave, when four hooded men broke into the home. After a reported struggle over Jackson's gold watch and jewelry, 15-year-old intruder Corey Walker fatally shot him multiple times, and made off with his Rolex. All four intruders were eventually convicted.

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Joell Ortiz is an American independent rapper who has a net worth of $3 million. Emerging from New York's underground hip-hop scene in the early 2000s, Joell Ortiz built a reputation as one of the most lyrically skilled MCs of his generation. He gained national attention after signing with Dr. Dre's Aftermath Entertainment and later as a member of the acclaimed rap supergroup Slaughterhouse alongside Joe Budden, Royce da 5'9″, and Kxng Crooked. Over two decades, Ortiz has maintained his credibility as a lyricist while evolving into a respected veteran voice within hip-hop.

Early Life

Joell Christopher Ortiz was born on July 6, 1980, and raised in the Cooper Park Houses in Brooklyn, New York. The son of Puerto Rican parents, Ortiz grew up in a working-class neighborhood where hip-hop served as both escape and expression. As a teenager, he began writing rhymes and recording demos, inspired by East Coast rap legends like Big Pun, Nas, and Jay-Z.

After graduating from high school, Ortiz turned down college scholarship offers to pursue music full-time. He honed his skills through street cyphers, mixtapes, and freestyle battles, quickly earning respect across the New York hip-hop circuit for his sharp delivery and authentic voice. His raw talent and relentless work ethic eventually attracted industry attention.

Career Beginnings

Ortiz's breakthrough came in the mid-2000s when his mixtape "Who the F*** Is Joell Ortiz?" drew widespread acclaim in underground circles. His reputation as a gifted lyricist caught the attention of Dr. Dre, who signed him to Aftermath Entertainment in 2006. Although the partnership didn't produce an official album, the affiliation elevated Ortiz's profile and solidified his place among the East Coast's rising stars.

In 2007, he released his debut studio album, "The Brick: Bodega Chronicles," through Koch Records (later known as E1 Music). The project featured appearances from Big Daddy Kane, Akon, and Styles P, and earned critical praise for its vivid depiction of Brooklyn life and Ortiz's lyrical precision. That same year, XXL magazine named him one of its "Top 10 Freshmen," further cementing his reputation as one of rap's most promising MCs.

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Slaughterhouse and Mainstream Recognition

In 2008, Joell Ortiz joined forces with Joe Budden, Royce da 5'9″, and Kxng Crooked to form Slaughterhouse, a rap supergroup known for complex rhyme structures and unapologetically technical lyricism. Their self-titled debut album, "Slaughterhouse" (2009), received critical acclaim for revitalizing lyrical hip-hop in an era dominated by radio-friendly rap.

The group's success led to a deal with Eminem's Shady Records, and in 2012 they released "Welcome to: Our House," which debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200. Ortiz's verses were consistently praised for their emotional honesty and craftsmanship, balancing braggadocio with introspection. Although Slaughterhouse eventually disbanded due to creative differences and label delays, their legacy as one of the most skilled lyrical collectives of the 21st century remains strong.

Solo Career and Later Work

Following his time with Slaughterhouse, Ortiz refocused on solo work, releasing a string of acclaimed projects including "House Slippers" (2014), "That's Hip Hop" (2016), and "Monday" (2019). His music often explores themes of perseverance, identity, and resilience, with a particular emphasis on his Puerto Rican heritage and Brooklyn upbringing.

In 2022, he reunited with Kxng Crooked for "Harbor City Season One," continuing their long-standing creative chemistry. Ortiz's collaborations with artists like Eminem, Tech N9ne, and Talib Kweli have further cemented his reputation as a versatile and respected MC.

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Max B is an American rap artist who has a net worth of $20 thousand. Known for his distinctive vocal delivery and laid-back charisma, Max B became a cult hero in the mid-2000s through a prolific run of mixtapes and collaborations that blended street storytelling with melodic hooks. Despite his rising fame, his career was derailed by legal troubles that led to a lengthy prison sentence in 2009. Even while incarcerated, Max B's legend grew, as his sound continued to shape mainstream hip-hop and inspire artists to carry on the "wave" he created. Often hailed as a pioneer of melodic rap, Max B remains a symbol of resilience and creativity in the face of adversity. After serving sixteen years, Max B was officially released from prison on November 9, 2025, marking one of hip-hop's most anticipated returns.

Early Life

Max B was born Charly Wingate on May 21, 1978, in Harlem, New York City. Raised in a tough neighborhood by his mother and grandparents after his father left early in his life, Wingate faced instability and poverty throughout his youth. His mother's death when he was still a teenager deeply affected him, and he began running the streets to survive. During his time in Harlem, he became close friends with several local rappers, including Jim Jones, which would later lead to his entry into the music industry. Before pursuing rap full-time, Wingate served several short stints in jail, experiences that would later color his gritty lyrical content.

Career Beginnings

Max B's rap career took off in the mid-2000s after being discovered by Harlem rapper Jim Jones, who brought him into his ByrdGang collective. He appeared prominently on Jones's 2005 album "Harlem: Diary of a Summer" and 2006's "Hustler's P.O.M.E. (Product of My Environment)," contributing to hits like "Baby Girl" and "G'z Up." Max's unique singing-rap hybrid immediately stood out, with his raspy harmonies and streetwise humor helping to define a new sonic aesthetic.

During this period, he adopted the moniker "Max Biggaveli," a fusion of the names of his idols—The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z (Jigga), and Tupac Shakur (Makaveli). However, tension soon developed between Max B and Jim Jones over money and creative control, prompting Max to split from ByrdGang and pursue a solo path. The fallout became one of New York rap's most talked-about feuds of the late 2000s.

Mixtape Run and "Wave" Movement

After parting ways with Jim Jones, Max B became one of the most prolific mixtape artists in hip-hop. Between 2006 and 2009, he released a series of influential projects such as "Public Domain," "Million Dollar Baby," and "Coke Wave," the latter in collaboration with French Montana. These tapes established Max's signature "wave" sound—an experimental blend of melody, raw emotion, and swaggering street narratives.

Songs like "La La," "Blow Me a Dub," and "She Touched It" showcased his ability to turn rough-edged stories into smooth, hypnotic anthems. His carefree persona and knack for creating catchphrases like "wavy" became a cornerstone of his identity. Though he never released a major-label debut album, his underground catalog built a devoted following and laid the groundwork for artists who would later popularize melodic trap and "singing rap" styles.

Legal Problems and Incarceration

In 2007, Max B was arrested in connection with a botched armed robbery at a hotel in Fort Lee, New Jersey, that ended in the death of one man. Though he was not physically present at the scene, prosecutors alleged he orchestrated the robbery. In 2009, he was convicted on charges including conspiracy to commit robbery, kidnapping, and felony murder, and was sentenced to 75 years in prison.

Years later, his legal team successfully challenged the conviction, arguing that his original defense attorney had a conflict of interest. In 2016, Max's conviction was vacated, and he accepted a plea deal for aggravated manslaughter, reducing his sentence to 20 years. From behind bars, he remained musically active, recording verses over the phone and releasing the 2011 album "Vigilante Season." His voice also appeared on Kanye West's "The Life of Pablo" in 2016, as well as on Wiz Khalifa's "Max B Interlude" from the 2025 project "Kush + Orange Juice 2."

Release and Comeback

Max B teased his impending release in early 2025 during an appearance on "The Joe Budden Podcast," telling listeners, "We got a date! November 9, 2025, baby!" True to his word, he walked out of prison on that very day after sixteen years behind bars. His longtime friend and collaborator French Montana celebrated the moment on Instagram, writing, "CANT MAKE THIS UP! MY BROTHER REALLY CAME HOME ON MY B DAY! HAMDULILLAH WALKED IT DOWN! NO MORE FREE YOU."

Upon his release, Max quickly reemerged in public, attending the New York Jets–Cleveland Browns game dressed head-to-toe in Louis Vuitton. Smiling in a viral video, he declared, "Fresh out the can. They gave me 75, but I'm back." He told fans he felt "good" and "grateful" to be home and encouraged others to "be yourself and get what you can afford."

Musical Legacy

Even during his imprisonment, Max B's influence never faded. His melodic "wave" style helped shape the sound of modern rap, inspiring artists like Wiz Khalifa, Drake, A$AP Rocky, Kanye West, and The Weeknd. The term "wavy," which he popularized, became a fixture in hip-hop slang.

Through a combination of charm, authenticity, and melodic experimentation, Max B helped usher in a new era of rap that prioritized emotion and flow over rigid lyricism. His comeback is widely anticipated, with fans and peers expecting him to pick up right where he left off. As he announced in his first post-release message, "It's time to open the floodgates."

Read more: Max B Net Worth