Drake, whose full name is Aubrey Drake Graham, has built an impressive empire over the past two decades, amassing a net worth of approximately $250 million as of 2024. Born on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, the 37-year-old rapper, singer, and entrepreneur has diversified his income streams far beyond music. Known for hits like “Child’s Play,” “One Dance,” and “Started From the Bottom,” Drake initially gained fame through his role as Jimmy Brooks on the teen drama Degrassi: The Next Generation. As of now, Drake is not publicly known to be in a relationship, and he shares a son, Adonis, with artist Sophie Brussaux.
Early Stardom
Drake’s career began in the early 2000s when he starred as Jimmy Brooks in Degrassi: The Next Generation. His portrayal of a basketball player who becomes paralyzed after a school shooting earned him significant attention, particularly among millennials. However, Drake always had his sights set on music, and he used his earnings from the show to fund his early mixtapes. This led to his debut album, Thank Me Later, released in 2010, which catapulted him into the mainstream music industry.
Music Success
Drake’s music career has been nothing short of phenomenal. Over the years, he has released multiple chart-topping albums and singles, cementing his status as one of the most influential artists of his generation. His hits, including “Take Care,” “All Me,” and “God’s Plan,” have not only topped charts but also earned him five Grammy Awards. Beyond music, Drake’s influence extends to popular culture, where he is often cited as a trendsetter in fashion, language, and even social media.
Business Ventures
Drake’s business acumen is as sharp as his musical talent. He has ventured into various lucrative partnerships and endorsements that have significantly boosted his net worth. In 2013, Drake signed a $10 million contract with Nike, aligning himself with one of the world’s most iconic brands. His collaborations don’t stop there; he also inked deals with Sprite, Apple Music (reportedly worth $19 million), and Beats by Dre. Each of these partnerships has contributed to his expanding wealth and influence.
Virginia Black Whiskey
In 2016, Drake further expanded his business portfolio by co-founding Virginia Black Whiskey with Brent Hocking, the creator of DeLeón Tequila. The brand quickly gained popularity, with its sleek packaging and smooth taste appealing to both fans and whiskey connoisseurs. A 750ml bottle of Virginia Black Whiskey is priced between $30 and $50, depending on the retailer, making it a mid-range option that is accessible yet premium. This venture solidified Drake’s status as more than just an artist; he is a full-fledged entrepreneur.
Lavish Lifestyle
Drake’s success is reflected in his luxurious lifestyle. One of the most notable symbols of his wealth is his mansion in Toronto, a sprawling 50,000-square-foot estate that was featured in Architectural Digest in 2020. The home, constructed with limestone, bronze, and exotic woods, is a testament to Drake’s desire to leave a lasting legacy in his hometown. The mansion boasts a 3,200-square-foot master-bedroom suite, an NBA-size basketball court, a two-story closet, and a great room with over 40-foot ceilings. It also features a hall adorned with jerseys from basketball legends and an entertainment lounge that doubles as a recording studio.
Drake’s Family
Despite his public persona, Drake has kept his personal life relatively private. However, he occasionally shares glimpses of his life with his son, Adonis, born in 2017. Adonis is the product of Drake’s brief relationship with Sophie Brussaux, a French artist and former adult film star. Drake has embraced fatherhood, often sharing moments with his son on social media, including a recent video where Adonis teaches him French. This softer side of Drake has endeared him to fans who appreciate seeing the human side of the megastar.
Comparative Wealth
In the world of hip-hop, Drake’s net worth, while impressive, is still dwarfed by some of his peers. Jay-Z tops the list with a staggering $2.5 billion net worth, thanks to his ventures in music, fashion, and alcohol, among others. Sean “Diddy” Combs follows with a $1 billion fortune, largely from his investments in Cîroc vodka, Revolt TV, and music royalties. Dr. Dre, once crowned as hip-hop’s first billionaire, has seen his net worth settle around $500 million after taxes on the sale of Beats by Dre to Apple. Kanye West, despite his recent controversies, still boasts a net worth of $400 million, while Pharrell Williams, known for his production work and solo hits, shares the same $250 million valuation as Drake.
Legacy Building
As Drake continues to expand his empire, his focus seems to be on building a lasting legacy, not just in music but also in business and personal endeavors. His diverse portfolio and ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing industry are testaments to his adaptability and foresight. With new projects always on the horizon, Drake’s influence shows no signs of waning, ensuring that his name will be remembered for generations to come.
Continued Growth
Looking ahead, Drake’s career trajectory suggests that his wealth and influence will only continue to grow. Whether through new music, business ventures, or cultural impact, Drake remains a dominant force in the entertainment industry, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps while solidifying his place among the greats.