Birdman, also known as Baby, has been a driving force in the hip-hop industry for several decades. His unique style, characterized by the Southern hip-hop tradition, propels his music into its own category. Yet, several other rappers’ music echoes the style and spirit of Birdman, sharing his affinity for gritty lyrics and heady beats. These artists represent a remarkable fusion of talent, creativity, and individuality within the same genre.
Birdman’s most famous protégé, Lil Wayne, often mirrors his mentor’s style. As a crucial member of the Cash Money Records family, Lil Wayne developed under his leader’s tutelage. His lyrics often interweave personal experiences with the harsh realities of life, a characteristic signature of Birdman’s music.
Rick Ross, another giant in the Southern hip-hop scene, also shares similarities with Birdman. With his smooth flow and charismatic presence, Ross echoes the Louisiana icon’s artistry, though he injects his brand of Miami-infused flavor. His lyrics encompass themes of hustling and success, paralleling Birdman’s career trajectory.
Young Thug, a relatively newer name than others on this list, brings his own twist to the Southern hip-hop tradition. His genre-bending approach often mirrors Birdman’s innovative spirit. Not confined by traditional hip-hop boundaries, Young Thug’s music is a testament to the evolving landscape of the genre.
Juvenile: The Cash Money Veteran
A fellow Cash Money Records veteran, Juvenile, shares a similar background with Birdman. Their music, deeply rooted in the streets of New Orleans, often carries the same raw energy and authenticity. Juvenile’s music, like Birdman’s, is a reflection of the struggles and triumphs inherent in their shared experiences.
Future, an Atlanta-based rapper, also echoes Birdman’s style, although he infuses it with his unique, melodic spin. His music, characterized by his innovative use of auto-tune and emotive storytelling, resonates with Birdman’s ability to balance classic hip-hop elements and modern musical trends.
The artists mentioned above have carved their path in hip-hop, though their music often resonates with Birdman’s unique style. Their connection to Birdman isn’t solely in their similar styles but also in their shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of Southern hip-hop. This commitment has allowed them to create a distinctive musical identity and contributed to the genre’s evolution.
The influence of Birdman’s style on these artists is a testament to his legacy. His impact on Southern hip-hop is undeniable, and these artists’ music clearly indicates his pervasive influence. While each artist possesses their unique style, their music often resonates with the style and spirit of Birdman. They serve as a testament to the power and influence of Southern hip-hop and its ability to produce artists that push the genre’s boundaries while remaining true to its roots.
If you’ve been paying attention to the South, then the name Rob49 has definitely popped up on your radar within the past year. Hailing from New Orleans, LA, the Welcome To Vulture IslandMC has undoubtedly become one of the rappers that should be on everyone’s radar. Throughout the past year, he’s kept his foot on the gas and continued to elevate from the underground into mainstream cognizance. Meanwhile, he’s also gained some massive co-signs from hip-hop’s biggest stars.
As the momentum continues to build up, Rob49 came through with the release of his new album, 4GOD II. Serving as the sequel to 2021’s 4GOD, Rob49 comes through with a slew of incredible talent attached to the tracklist. Birdman, once again, helps lead the campaign on “Woedy.” DaBaby appears on “Hate It Or Love It,” as well, while Roddy Ricch comes with the assist on “TRX.” Additionally, the project boasts features from G Herbo, Icewear Vezzo, Trippie Redd, and NoCap.
Rob49’s Big Moment
The release of Rob49’s 4GODII will undoubtedly leave fans anticipating his next moves for the remainder of the year. His vulnerable, gut-wrenching delivery on records like “TRX,” for instance,” provides fans with a glimpse into the complexity of his emotions. Meanwhile, the rapper doesn’t fail to look back on the shooting earlier this year. On “Pill Head,” the rapper directly addresses the situation, rapping, “I’m feelin’ like Scarface in the trenches with a sling (Brrt)/ I just got shot, I’m back outside like I ain’t feel a thing.”
The release of 4GODII arrives over a year after he released Welcome To Vulture Island, which found him rubbing shoulders with some of rap’s biggest stars. From appearances from Midwest stars like Babyface Ray, Icewear Vezzo and Doe Boy to Lil Baby’s appearance on “Vulture Island V2,” Rob49 already proved that all eyes are on him. Check out his new album above and sound off with your thoughts in the comments.
Beef in hip-hop can often be an incredibly cost-efficient marketing tool, depending on the stakes involved. For the most part, a few comments on Twitter or Instagram can galvanize the timeline into a frenzy, especially when its legendary rap figures are at the center of the controversy. While Rick Ross hasn’t necessarily traded bars with any of his foes recently, he’s added to his list of beefs after trading shots with DJ Envy. Last weekend, the two began trading shots over their competing car shows.
Things escalated rapidly for a few days. What began as slight jabs on social media transformed into a war of words where DJ Envy would dress up as a correctional officer to mock Ross’ previous career path. In response, Rozay turned up the hostility by mentioning The Breakfast Club host’s wife – an evident sore spot, as we’ve seen with Desus & Mero.
Fortunately, there’s always room for forgiveness (at least, we hope). In his autobiography, Hurricanes, he revealed tension between him and DJ Khaled that began when he put up $1,000 for a Terror Squad chain belonging to the DJ. His reason? “Dissing Khaled and everybody else was my way of trying to get something going,” Ross said. Of course, that feud didn’t last long; these days, they comically debate the origins of almond milk.
In the wake of Ross’ latest feud with DJ Envy, we decided to dive into some of Rick Ross’ biggest beefs that rattled the rap world. Although many of his feuds deserve to be unpacked by themselves, we’re briefly breaking down Ross’s issues with other figures in pop culture.
Birdman
Thanks to Rick Ross, “idols become rivals” became cemented in hip-hop jargon due to his issues with Birdman. Now, there were a few moments that led to their feud. For starters, Drake and Meek Mill’s beef blew up, leading to the infamous bars in 2015’s “Color Money,” where Ross raps, “I got more money than that pussy that you’re signed to.” Birdman ultimately brushed it off, feigning ignorance of Ross’ motives before the MMG boss came out the gates swinging with “Idols Become Rivals,” where he finally addressed the root of their issues. It was not only Birdman’s dealings with Lil Wayne but also his friend DJ Khaled during his Cash Money stint that left a bad taste in Ross’ mouth. Ultimately, the issues appear to be water under the bridge, as neither Birdman nor Rick Ross has addressed the matter further.
“Freeway” Ricky Ross
Rick “Freeway” Ross, the reformed drug kingpin, sued the Miami rapper Rick Ross for using his name without permission. In a $10M filing, Freeway accused Ross of copyright infringement for using his moniker as a rap name. Although Rick Ross seemingly denied knowing about the notorious drug trafficker, the reference was undoubtedly evident, especially for a rapper who continues to namedrop drug lords as a benchmark of wealth. Ultimately, a judge ruled in the rapper’s favor.
50 Cent
The long-standing issues between Rick Ross and 50 Cent stand among the pettiest of beefs in recent rap history. Apparently, 50 Cent looked at Rick Ross the wrong way at an event, although Fif denied ever seeing the Miami rapper. However, things only worsened when Ross released “Mafia Music,” where he dissed 50 Cent. In response, 50 unloaded “Officer Ricky (Go Head, Try Me).”
For over a decade, the two continued to throw shots at each other – through social media and diss tracks – while dragging other affiliates into the issue. As 50 stated on “Warning Shot,” “I’mma f*ck your life up for fun,” vowing to use his resources to make Ross’ life miserable. He followed through on the promise once he dragged the mother of Ross’ child into the equation, who confirmed Ross’ past as a correctional officer. In addition, 50 Cent also began to aim at DJ Khaled while members of G-Unit, namely Lloyd Banks and Tony Yayo, piled on. Eventually, Meek became involved when he defended Ross on 4/4 EP. Rick Ross and 50 Cent still haven’t resolved their issues, nor will they ever. Both have seemingly made peace with the idea of taking this one to the grave.
Jeezy
What began as a shout-out to America’s biggest kingpin became one of the most explosive beefs in Rick Ross’ career. Rick Ross hit single “BMF” appeared on the Albert Anastasia EP before landing on Teflon Don. However, the song’s success seemingly spurred tension between the two parties. When Jeezy released his remix of the record – including a cameo from Big Meech himself – fans dug deeper into the line, “How you blowin’ money fast, you don’t know the crew? Oh, you part of the fam, sh*t I never knew.” Although Jeezy and Ross denied issues, things began to bubble following several subliminal shots. Ross released “The Summer’s Mine,” containing what seemed to be a slight jab at Jeezy. However, the ATL rapper later returned fire in an interview shot in the streets of Miami.
Despite being signed to the same label (Def Jam), it seemed that no industry executive had the pull to put their issues to rest. The two rappers ran into each other at the BET Awards in 2012, where their crews got into a physical fight. Rumor has it that G-Unit was also involved in the melee.
Eventually, the two rappers put their differences aside and joined forces on 2014’s “War Ready,” ending their long-standing issues. Ironically, Rick Ross, who received a few shots from then CTE-signee Freddie Gibbs at the time, recently said that he wanted to help the Atlanta rapper and the Gary, IN MC patch things up with one another.
Gillie Da King
In recent years, Rick Ross has found more value in trolling his adversaries online than on wax. Such as the case of DJ Envy, Rick Ross found himself trading barbs with Gillie Da King. Ross called Gillie a “fraud” following the podcast host’s run-in with his former adversary, Lil Wayne, at Jackson State University.
During Southside’s interview on Million Dollaz Worth Of Game, Gillie slammed older rappers who resort to social media antics to regain their footing in the culture. However, Gillie specifically began mentioning Ross’ collection of cows before resorting to the correctional officer jabs. In response, Ross said he spends more monthly money on his cows than Gillie does on his family. Eventually, Ross joked about joining the podcast circuit as a direct competitor to Million Dollaz Worth Of Game. Gillie then suggested Rozay call his podcast the “Mickey Mouse Show.” Sure, it lacks originality, but it seemingly silenced their online beef.
Tory Lanez
While some of Rick Ross’ beefs have been nothing short of petty, his tirade against Tory Lanez appeared to come from a good place. A day after a Kentucky jury declined to charge the officers involved in Breonna Taylor’s murder, Tory Lanez released Daystar. This album attempted to clear his name from allegations surrounding Megan Thee Stallion’s shooting. “Tory Lanez, poor decision brother,” Ross said. “Dropping that project… Just outta respect for Breonna Taylor, bruh, we gotta respect these sisters. That ain’t how you address the accusations you are facing. That was a poor choice, homie. You ain’t getting no money with that shit.”
While Tory claimed that Ross wasn’t even attending the protests for Breonna Taylor in Miami, the MMG Boss refuted that the Canadian rapper only showed his support because the rally passed by his home. Following a few more shots between the two, Ross offered a SmartCar to Tory Lanez – an apparent jab at the I Told You rapper’s height. Eventually, the two linked up and squashed their beef while Ross began promoting his annual car show at the Promised Land.
Rap OGs J. Prince and Birdman paid a personal visit to NBA Youngboy at his Utah home to address the recent diss track released by the young rapper aimed at Drake. The missive, titled “F*ck The Industry Pt. 2,” targeted various artists, including Drake and even shot at the Houston honcho. J. Prince, who is […]
Who knew the feud between NBA Youngboy and Lil Durk would somehow involve Drake? In the midst of speculation of an album showdown, YB released “F**k The Industry Pt. 2” where he addressed a number of individuals, including Lil Wayne’s protegé. “Talked to Drake ‘cross FaceTime, he wasn’t feelin’ me/ Told me that he fuck with Durk, damn, that shit gettin’ to me/ Told me that he like the shit I’m doin’, but can’t do shit with me/ So when we cross our ways, fuck what you say, bitch, you my enemy,” YB raps on the song.
Apparently, this required J. Prince’s intervention. Birdman seemingly set up a meeting in Utah between the Rap-A-Lot boss and the Richest Opp rapper where they could hash out their differences. “On behalf of the lil Homie YB, me and my brother Birdman were able to have a real conversation face to face,” J. Prince wrote in the caption. “We talked about the past, the present, and the future. But most importantly, we left each other with a mutual respect moving forward.”
J. Prince: Take Drake Off Your Enemy List
Prince explained that he wasn’t there to meet with Birdman but felt compelled to publicly speak on “F*ck The Industry Pt. 2.” “To the lil homie, as I said to you privately, I say to you publicly that Drake is my son, he roll with me,” he added. “Therefore, I think it’s a good idea to take him off your enemy list because the truth of the matter is that we got nothing but love for Durk and your accomplishments. When I put Drake on that facetime call with you, my intent was for y’all to move forward, not backwards.”
Both NBA Youngboy and J. Prince have exchanged words in the past, largely due to the latter’s public declaration of retrieving YB’s stolen car keys. In response, NBA Youngboy scolded Prince for sharing an Instagram post about the matter. “It’s plenty ways to get in touch with me,” YB said on Instagram at the time. “I’m good on them keys, gangsta. When you buy that shit cash, two keys come with the car anyways. Mind your fuckin’ business, mane.” Hopefully, the recent meeting maintains the peace between NBA Youngboy and J. Prince.
Birdman, born in 1969, is an American rapper, record executive, and entrepreneur who has significantly impacted the music industry. In this article, we will explore the factors that have contributed to Birdman’s impressive wealth, including his music career, record label, business ventures, and real estate investments.
Birdman Net Worth
As of 2023, Celebrity Net Worth estimates his net worth to be around $150 Million US Dollars.
Cash Money Records and Music Industry Success
Arguably the most significant contributor to Birdman’s net worth is his co-founding of Cash Money Records, which he established with his brother, Ronald “Slim” Williams, in 1991. Cash Money Records has become one of the most successful independent record labels in the industry.
The label has signed and released music from some of the biggest names in hip-hop, such as Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj. These artists’ successes have brought in millions of dollars in revenue, substantially increasing Birdman’s net worth.
Birdman: Music Career And Influence
Birdman, also known as Baby, gained recognition as an artist as part of the duo Big Tymers, alongside Mannie Fresh. Together, they released several successful albums in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Later, Birdman embarked on a solo career, releasing albums like Birdman and 5 * Stunna. His music career has generated substantial income through album sales, streaming royalties, and concert performances.
Birdman: Business Ventures And Diversification
Birdman’s entrepreneurial spirit has also played a significant role in his net worth. He has ventured into various industries, including fashion, spirits, and oil exploration.
In 2006, Birdman and Lil Wayne launched the fashion brand/Cash Money off-brand YMCMB (Young Money Cash Money Billionaires), which became a popular streetwear label. Moreover, he invested in a spirit company called GTV Vodka, which has brought in additional income.
His foray into the oil and gas industry with Bronald Oil & Gas, however, did not prove as successful as his other ventures.
Real Estate Investments And Lavish Lifestyle
Birdman’s real estate investments have contributed to his wealth as well. He owns several multi-million-dollar properties in cities like Miami and New Orleans. These properties not only serve as homes but also as investments that can appreciate over time.
It’s worth noting that the entrepreneur is known for his lavish lifestyle, often showcasing luxury cars, jewelry, and extravagant parties. While his spending habits may not directly contribute to his net worth, they are a testament to the wealth he has amassed over the years.
Birdman: Legal Issues And Controversies
Birdman’s wealth has not come without its share of controversies and legal issues. He has been involved in numerous lawsuits and disputes with artists signed to his label, such as Lil Wayne and Tyga. While these issues have the potential to impact his net worth, Birdman’s fortune remains substantial.
Conclusion/TLDR
Birdman’s estimated net worth of $150 million in 2023 can be attributed to his successful music career, record label, and business ventures. His influence and accomplishments in the music industry, as well as his diverse portfolio, have allowed him to amass a considerable fortune. With his continued involvement in the industry and his entrepreneurial endeavors, Birdman’s net worth is likely to remain impressive in the years to come.
Birdman is on a mission to get recognition for the CEOs in hip-hop. It’s no doubt that Birdman created a blueprint for rap moguls, but perhaps, he isn’t celebrated in the way he should be. He brought artists like Lil Wayne, Drake and Nicki Minaj to the game, while uplifting artists that came after them like Young Thug and NBA Youngboy. However, in the wake of Billboard’s rappers’ list, he sought to make sure that they don’t forget the people behind the scenes funding and making plays to turn these rappers into superstars.
“I see you’ll did 10 best rappers which is well respeked but what about tha CEOs who made thaway for these rappers to be Supa stars,” Birdman wrote in a lengthy Instagram post. “Fought tha battle behind doors so they kan be super stars. Put some respek on my name and stop playin with me. I’m tha best to ever doit nothing but love for all CEO ever in 50yrs of hip hop.” Prior to this, he explained that he hoped that platforms like Billboard would honor the businessmen in hip-hop who turned it into a multi-billion dollar industry.
Birdman Reacts To Top 10 CEO List
While Billboard didn’t respond to Baby, Earn Your Leisure shared their own list of hip-hop’s best CEOs. At number one is Birdman, followed by Diddy, Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, Russell Simmons, Master P, LA Reid, Dame Dash, Jermaine Dupri, and then Suge Knight at #10. However, the honorable mentions include Kevin “Coach K” Lee and Pierre “P” Thomas, Irv Gotti, Dee, and Waah, as well as J. Prince. Though there are definitely many names missing, the list that appeared was otherwise pretty accurate.
However, Birdman doesn’t feel like Earn Your Leisure got their rankings of CEOs correct, either. Despite topping the list, he said that he doesn’t think Diddy deserves to be at #2 but instead, P from Quality Control. “P Fom @QC should be 2nd no doubt noshade jus being real gangsta CMRG. my [opinion],” he wrote. Though no one has responded to Baby, his choice of Quality Control’s P doesn’t necessarily seem surprising. Last year, the QC founder told the Cash Money CEO that he wouldn’t be running a successful label if it wasn’t for Birdman. Check out Baby’s comments above and sound off with your thoughts in the comments.
It’s been nearly seven years since Birdman immortalized the phrase, “Put some respek on my name,” on the Breakfast Club. At the time, he took issue with the radio show’s coverage of his feud with Lil Wayne. If you recall, Lil Wayne felt as though he was stuck in his Cash Money contract which hindered his creativity. However, the infamous moment continued to be a staple in Internet culture for the years to come. Quite often, you’ll find someone use the gif of Birdman sitting behind a microphone with his arms crossed, demanding respect from Charlamagne Tha God.
However, the Cash Money founder apparently wants the same from Billboard. At the top of the year, Billboard and Vibe connected to deliver their definitive Top 50 Greatest Rappers list. Two of his artists – Lil Wayne and Drake – landed in the top 10. So, you’d expect him to be somewhat pleased about the list. This afternoon, he took to Instagram where he aired out Billboard for not giving the same acknowledgement to the CEOs of these labels who worked diligently to put on for the rappers.
Birdman Tells Billboard To “Respek” His Accomplishments
This week, Birdman addressed the controversial list, that he feels is “well respeked.” However, he felt as though they were playing him for not recognizing the CEOs at large. Cash Money undoubtedly changed hip-hop and the music industry forever, but his beef with Billboard largely has to do with the lack of acknowledgement for the CEOs, “made the way for these rappers to be supa stars.”
“I see you’ll did 10 best rappers which is well respeked but what about tha CEO who made thaway for these rappers to be Supa stars,” he wrote. “Fought tha battle behind doors so they kan be super stars. Put some respek on my name and stop playin with me. I’m tha best to ever doit nothing but love for all CEO ever in 50yrs of hip hop we held it down cash money rich gang STUNNAMAN tha best ever #THEGOATMAKER I doit do 4MS GLADYS.” Check out his post above and let us know if you agree in the comments.
As we celebrate hip hop’s 50th anniversary this year, people tend to focus mainly on the rappers and producers that pushed the genre to the worldwide status that it is today. However, Cash Money founder, Birdman, believes that the CEO’s should get their flowers too.
The legendary mogul took to Instagram where he wrote that CEO’s should be remembered just as the artists as they were the ones to truly keep the genre alive.
“Im confused about 50yrs of hip hop where they salute legendary artists which is well respeked Birdman wrote. “Also I think CEOs who kept these artists alive to be great [and] showed them how to keep hip hop alive should be saluted in a major way. I remember wen they said hip hop was dead and we kept it alive YMCMB 20plus summers respek our hussle CEOs kept hip hop alive frfr.”
Quality Control co-founder and CEO Pierre “P” Thomas commented under Birdman’s post, agreeing with the Cash Money founder. “Real talk OG,” he wrote. “This should be discussed in a major way. Let’s Go.” Snoop Dogg, who recently acquired Death Row Records, agreed with Birdman’s sentiments as well. “Facts” Snoop commented, adding “great work cuz u and slim did that.”
Irv Gotti even recently gave Birdman his flowers. On the Earn Your Leisure podcast, Gotti was asked if Birdman was the best to ever do it, to which Gotti responded that Cash Money is the greatest hip-hop label ever.
“Yeah. As far as labels goes, there’s no disputing Cash Money is the greatest label ever. … No one’s even close to Cash Money, I don’t think. No one’s close to them. And if they ever wanted to sell, Baby and Slim could get a billi. Someone will give them a billion dollars.”