Drake is a Canadian rapper, an actor and a producer who has been dubbed one of the most influential personalities in music today. He grew up from small beginnings in Toronto to become the most impactful global music star as well as among the richest people in hip-hop.
His financial achievements match his chart-topping hits and incredible performances. But how much is “God’s Plan” rapper really worth? Let’s delve into Aubrey Drake Graham’s financial world and see what kind of empire he built.
What is Drake’s Net Worth?
As of 2024, Drake has an estimated net worth of $250 million which is mind-boggling figure making him one of the richest rappers globally due to his exceptional musical skills, business acumen and tireless work ethic.
Drake’s path to riches started when he was still a young boy playing characters on “Degrassi: The Next Generation,” a Canadian television show.
Yet, it was his foray into music that thrust him into stardom. Since the release of his debut studio album called “Thank Me Later” in 2010, many successful albums and singles have followed with Drake earning over $430 million throughout his career before taxes and expenses.
The Journey to Wealth: Drake’s Rise to Fame
From Degrassi to Dominance
Drake’s path to financial success began long before he topped the charts. Many fans might remember him as Jimmy Brooks from the Canadian teen drama “Degrassi: The Next Generation.” This early acting career provided Drake with a steady income, earning him about $50,000 per year. While this might seem modest compared to his current wealth, it was a crucial stepping stone in his journey.
Mixtapes to Millions
Drake’s transition from actor to rapper wasn’t overnight. He released his first mixtape, “Room for Improvement,” in 2006, selling 6,000 copies independently. This grassroots approach laid the foundation for his future success. By 2009, he had caught the attention of Lil Wayne, leading to a record deal with Young Money Entertainment.
Breaking Down Drake’s Income Streams
Music Sales and Streaming
Drake’s primary source of income comes from his music. With over 170 million records sold worldwide, he’s one of the best-selling music artists of all time. In the streaming era, Drake continues to dominate:
- He’s the most-streamed artist on Spotify, with over 50 billion streams
- His album “Scorpion” became the first to surpass 1 billion streams in a week
Tours and Performances
Live performances are a significant contributor to Drake’s wealth:
- His “Summer Sixteen Tour” grossed $84.3 million
- The “Aubrey & the Three Migos Tour” brought in $79 million
- He earns up to $2 million per concert
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Drake isn’t just a musician; he’s a savvy entrepreneur:
- OVO Sound: His record label and clothing brand
- Virginia Black Whiskey: A bourbon whiskey brand he co-founded
- Stake: A cryptocurrency casino where Drake is a brand ambassador
- Endorsements with major brands like Nike, Apple, and Sprite
Real Estate Investments
Drake has made headlines not only for his music but also for his extravagant real estate investments. He owns multiple properties, including:
- The YOLO Estate in California, purchased for $7.7 million, featuring luxurious amenities like a massive pool and a basketball court.
- A $6.7 million mansion in Toronto, which he designed to be a sprawling 50,000 square feet.
- A $75 million mansion in Beverly Hills, which he listed for sale at $88 million just a year after buying it.
These properties reflect his taste for luxury and have significantly contributed to his overall wealth.
Drake’s Earnings by Year
To understand how Drake built his wealth, let’s look at his earnings over the years:
- 2010: $10 million
- 2011: $11 million
- 2012: $21 million
- 2013: $11 million
- 2014: $33 million
- 2015: $40 million
- 2016: $40 million
- 2017: $95 million
- 2018: $47 million
- 2019: $75 million
- 2020: $50 million
- 2021: $40 million
- 2022: $30 million
Total earnings from 2010-2022: $503 million
Luxury Lifestyle: How Drake Spends His Millions
Drake isn’t shy about enjoying his wealth:
- Air Drake: His custom Boeing 767 private jet, worth an estimated $185 million
- Jewelry collection: Including a $1 million heart-shaped diamond ring
- Car collection: Featuring Rolls-Royces, Bentleys, and Lamborghinis
- Charitable donations: Supporting various causes and communities
The Future of Drake’s Wealth
With his continued musical success and expanding business ventures, Drake’s net worth is likely to grow. His recent deal with Universal Music Group, reportedly worth $400 million, ensures a steady income stream for years to come.
Conclusion
Drake’s hard work, talent as well as his business dealings have seen his net worth stand at $250 million. He built a global music icon out of nothing when he began “Degrassi” and is now the CEO of an expanding empire. It would be safe to say that his network will only continue growing with time considering he’s in the process of extending his brand and seeking new opportunities. All these developments embed him deeper into the industry.
For both fans and aspiring artists, Drake’s journey offers food for thought about what could be achieved with one’s natural talents, persistence, and prudent financial decisions.
If you want to know more about how other musicians made money, please see our article on Kendrick Lamar’s net worth.