Jadakiss is opening up in interviews recently, talking about what it’s like to get up on stage after 30 years. On Hot 97‘s GOAT Talk with DJ Enuff last Wednesday, the rapper admitted to suffering from anxiety before any live performance, despite the number of shows he’s done in his career. “Facts. Every show, there’s some butterflies before you gotta go out there,” he said to DJ Enuff. This nervousness is unbiased on which stage, what the show’s caliber is, or which city Jada is touring.
DJ Enuff replied that this was a testament to how much he cares about rap, to which Jadakiss agreed. Even though this is how he feels internally every time he’s up there, he performs like it’s his last show. The dedication to his craft is what keeps Jada going. That, and the love he has for the up-and-comers entering the rap industry. (Unless they’re trying to get fights started… then he doesn’t enjoy the pageantry.)
Jadakiss knows other young rappers must feel similarly. He recently gave some props to Bay Area rapper Symba for his lyrical range and current hot streak. The two performers embraced backstage at a 2023 BET Awards event this past weekend. Video of the encounter went viral, with Jada talking Symba up over and over. Cultural icons like LeBron James and Busta Rhymes commented on the social media post, showering praise for both the old guard and the young bucks of rap.
Jadakiss is doing plenty of talk show appearances these days, giving his take on everything from rap beef to industry history. Celebrating over 31 years of musical prominence, the Yonkers, NY, native is getting introspective while still pushing himself to perform. And we can all relate to Jada; going in front of a mass of people and being vulnerable is uncomfortable. He had the gumption to do it all these years. For that, we are truly grateful. Stay tuned to HNHH for more news from the music world.
Jadakiss has had a long and prolific career. The Yonkers rapper emerged as a member of The Lox alongside Styles P and Sheek Louch but his solo career has been just as fruitful. His lyrical prowess earned him the reputation of owning any track he’s on, whether alongside fellow formidable MCs or R&B singers. It’s impossible not to recognize his raspy voice on a song that became synonymous with his charismatic rapping style. As the rapper turned the age of 48 on May 27th, Jadakiss cemented his legacy in hip-hop and expanded his repertoire into different businesses. Today, we take a look into the evolution of Jadakiss.
Jadakiss’s Young Age Talent And Success With The Lox
Jadakiss’s development as a rapper goes back to his adolescence. At the age of twelve, Jadakiss began rapping while participating in freestyle rap competitions. He formed The Lox with his childhood friends, Styles P and Sheek Louch, creating demos and mixtapes that would eventually get them signed. Together, they created some of New York’s toughest street rap anthems. They initially signed to Diddy’s Bad Boy label, appearing on songs alongside the label’s staples including Biggie and Mase. One of their earliest career highlights as a group was their show-stealing verses on Diddy’s “It’s All About The Benjamins” remix. They released their debut album, Money, Power & Respect under Bad Boy in 1998 before moving to Ruff Ryders, reaching further success. The Lox also started their D-Block record label.
After The Lox released their sophomore album, We Are The Streets on Ruff Ryders in 2000, Jadakiss began focusing on his solo career. While still closely collaborating with Styles and Sheek, Jadakiss’s solo albums pushed his star power further. His debut album, 2001’s Kiss Tha Game Goodbye contained two of his biggest hits: “We Gonna Make It” and “Knock Yourself Out.” Jadakiss’s second album, 2004’s Kiss of Death was an even bigger commercial success. The album achieved number 1 spots on multiple Billboard charts and contained his two hit singles, “Why?” and “U Make Me Wanna” ft. Mariah Carey.
Jadakiss had already proved that he could make hit crossover songs with R&B artists, but “Why?” with Anthony Hamilton and “U Make Me Wanna” solidified Jadakiss’s status as a key collaborator. “By My Side,” the Ne-Yo-assisted lead single from his third album, 2009’s The Last Kiss also reinforced Jadakiss’s ability to make hit songs. Outside of The Lox, Jadakiss has also worked with notable R&B artists such as Usher, Ronald Isley, and Mario. Jadakiss has a deep history of being one of hip hop’s best guest features, appearing on songs with rappers like Big Pun, N.O.R.E., Ghostface Killah, Busta Rhymes, Lil Wayne, and others. He has also worked with some of the UK’s most famous rappers like Giggs and Young Adz, who signed with ‘Kiss’s D-Block as a member of D-Block Europe.
The Verzuz Champion
The freestyle rap competitions that Jadakiss entered at a young age set him up for success, but also encouraged his competitive spirit within hip-hop. Jadakiss declared himself “top 5 dead or alive” in hip-hop — a statement that inspired the title of his fourth studio album in 2015. He and close collaborator and fellow New York rapper Fabolous sparred with each other on their 2017 collab album, Friday on Elm Street.
However, that same competitive spirit that shaped his pen during freestyle battles also allowed him to shine in both solo and group Verzuz battles; one being Jadakiss vs. Fabolous while the other saw The Lox go head-to-head with Dipset. Jadakiss was crowned the winner of his battle with Fabolous while The Lox came out victorious against Dipset due to Jadakiss’s show-stopping charisma, specifically his “Who Shot Ya? Freestyle.” His deep catalog of both solo and group records helped support Jadakiss’s debatable position as “top 5 dead or alive.”
Today, Jadakiss is viewed as a hip-hop legend, giving new artists a shine and collaborating with fellow legends on his later albums like the aforementioned Top 5 Dead Or Alive from 2015 and 2020’s Ignatius. The Lox are also more unified than ever as they came together following each member’s solo works for recent group albums like 2016’s Filthy America… It’s Beautiful and 2020’s Living Off Xperience.
In addition to music, Jadakiss has stepped into business ventures that have also been successful. In 2014, Jadakiss and Styles P opened a juice bar in their hometown of Yonkers called Juices For Life before opening other locations in different parts of New York City. Keeping it in the family, Jadakiss also recently launched his own brand of coffee company called Kiss Cafe with his father and son. In a new Drink Champs interview promoting the new coffee product, Jadakiss’s father discussed working in the coffee industry long before Jadakiss started rapping at a young age. For them, working as a family was a full-circle moment.
Swizz Beatz has suggested a new twist to the usual Verzuz format for Jadakiss’ next battle. With the battle series set to return later this year, Swizz talked with Timbaland about what he would like to see from the upcoming third season. Swizz proposed pitting the MC against several of his contemporaries at the same time, based on freestyles rather than hit songs. “You know what I wanna see? I wanna see everybody versus Jadakiss,” he said. Timbaland responded, “Wait a minute, so five against one? Oh, okay.”
Jim Jonesrecently suggested that Jadakiss should have released an album after the contest to capitalize on the moment, a suggestion the MC agreed with. However, he wanted to get his business affairs right, and the Verzuz performance gave him leverage on the label to fix some stuff. Jadakiss renegotiated his contract with Def Jam and showed the world his worth. “My numbers went up for hostings and walkthroughs, for shows, and TV cameos,” he said after the battle. “Just in general my numbers went up. It also showed Def Jam that they got to do the right thing [and] restructure my contract. It really showed the world my true worth, what I can do.”
Jadakiss has said that he definitely should have dropped something after the Verzuz battle, but he cannot do “microwave music.” He has a bunch of songs on the hard drive, but he did not feel that he could just put out anything. He said, “I still feel like I’m gypping the people if I just put out anything. You know, I like to cook my meals.”
Diddy has announced that he will face off against Jermaine Dupri in Verzuz at New York City’s Madison Square Garden on September 8, although the battle has yet to be officially confirmed by Swizz Beatz or Timbaland. Jadakiss’ next Verzuz battle with the twist suggested by Swizz Beatz will be something to watch out for, given his MVP-worthy performance in the previous battle. What do you think about the twist that Swizz Beatz suggested? Let us know in the comments!
There’s no denying that the world of hip-hop is a lucrative one. And when it comes to wealth, Jadakiss, the renowned rapper, has amassed an impressive fortune. But, what is the rapper’s net worth in 2023? We’ll be taking a look at what has gone into his wealth in this article.
As of 2023, Jadakiss’ net worth is estimated to be around $6 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. This figure includes income from his music career, performances, and business ventures.
The Musical Journey Of Jadakiss
(Photo by Tim Mosenfelder/Getty Images for VIBE x Def Jam Recordings)
Born Jason Terrance Phillips, Jadakiss started his journey into the music industry as a freestyle rapper. His talent did not go unnoticed. He formed the group, The Lox, with his friends, and they soon caught the attention of prominent figures in the music industry. The group’s first album, Money, Power & Respect, was a commercial success, contributing significantly to Jadakiss’ net worth.
Jadakiss launched his solo career with his debut album,Kiss Tha Game Goodbye, in 2001. The album went on to be certified platinum, further boosting Jadakiss’ financial standing. His subsequent albums, Kiss of Death and The Last Kiss, were also commercially successful.
Business Ventures
(Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Like many other successful artists, Jadakiss has diversified his income stream. He co-owns the juice bar chain, Juices for Life. This venture aims to promote healthy living in neighborhoods where access to nutritious food options is limited.
In addition to this, Jadakiss has a lucrative merchandise line that further contributes to his net worth. From clothing to accessories, the merchandise appeals to his loyal fan base, thereby generating significant revenue.
Live Performances
(Photo by Johnny Nunez/WireImage)
Live performances form a substantial part of any musician’s income, and Jadakiss is no exception. His dynamic stage presence and lyrical prowess ensure his concerts are always sold out. These performances, coupled with appearances at music festivals and private events, have significantly bolstered Jadakiss’ net worth.
Conclusion/TLDR
Despite facing challenges and controversy in his career, Jadakiss has managed to stay relevant and successful in the ever-evolving music industry. His net worth is a testament to his talent, hard work, and business acumen.
From his platinum albums to his business ventures, Jadakiss has built an empire that continues to grow. As he continues to make music and engage in lucrative ventures, there’s no doubt that Jadakiss’ net worth will keep climbing in the years to come.
Mary J. Blige and Pepsi are teaming up to present the inaugural PepsiCo x Mary J. Blige Strength of a Woman Scholarship, which will give $200,000 to a lucky Historically Black College or University (HBCU) student. The scholarship is part of Pepsi’s return as a co-presenter at Mary J. Blige’s upcoming “Strength of a Woman” […]
Jadakiss is one of the most respected rappers in the game. The Yonkers rapper has had a highly prolific career, both as a member of The Lox and as a solo artist. He recently discussed the launch of his new coffee company on Drink Champs. Jada has made his fair share of street anthems and R&B crossovers, releasing five solo albums, six mixtapes, and his albums with The Lox and Fabolous. Jadakiss’s extensive solo catalog and group albums show that he is a great collaborator and when he is on a song with a guest, they bring the best out of each other.
This is a list of the best collabs on Jadakiss songs. The list includes Jadakiss’s solo catalog, his work with The Lox, and songs on producer albums where he is the only main or one of the main vocalists. He has too many iconic features to the point where his guest verses are their own separate list. The songs, listed in chronological order, look into the chemistry between Jadakiss and other artists. The songs show how he has been able to showcase his versatility over his legendary career.
“Ryde Or Die, Bitch” (1999)
It is impossible to discuss the best Jadakiss songs and his best collaborations without mentioning The Lox. Jadakiss, Styles P, and Sheek Louch have a chemistry as a group that is unmatched. Known for their irresistible street raps, the lead single from their second album, 2000’s We Are The Streets shows that they can make a hit with any kind of topic. The song features a groovy beat from Timbaland and a killer hook from Eve. The beat and the catchy chorus allow the three to spit slick lyrics about how they want a woman to hold them down in their street lifestyle. All three bring quality verses to the table, sticking to a consistent topic. Eve’s attitude on the hook perfectly fits the role of the woman The Lox are rapping about.
“F**k You” (2000)
This ruthless song from The Lox is the perfect way to open an album called We Are The Streets. The song is also possibly the most disrespectful way to open a Verzuz battle, which is exactly how The Lox started their historic battle against The Diplomats in 2021. The song is an ultimate display of unity of The Lox as a group and how they rudely look down on their competition. Over one of Swizz Beatz’s filthiest productions, Jadakiss, Styles P, and Sheek Louch spit some of their meanest and most vulgar lyrics that still remain as one of their strongest collaborations.
“Recognize” (2000)
Also from We Are The Streets, “Recognize” is arguably the best song in The Lox’s discography as the beat from DJ Premier allows the three to showcase their unique flows and cadences, which compliment one another. Jadakiss’s raspy voice, Sheek’s thick New York accent, and Styles P’s low voice make for a song that is quintessentially The Lox. It speaks to their chemistry as a group, which has stood the test of time.
“We Gonna Make It” (2001)
This classic song from Jadakiss’s debut solo album, 2001’s Kiss tha Game Goodbye, remains one of Jadakiss’s most popular songs and collaborations. The Lox had made plenty of classics before this song, but Jadakiss and Styles P specifically mastered their chemistry with their signature back-and-forth verses. Over a beat from The Alchemist, “We Gonna Make It” is a triumphant song about reaching success from streetlife. It is one of the best songs where the chemistry between Jadakiss and Styles P is on full display.
“Why?” (2004)
Possibly, Jadakiss’s biggest single, “Why?” sees Jadakiss asking questions about the state of the world and culture. Many of these questions are rhetorical although he does answer some of them, relating to politics, pop culture, and conspiracies. Each line may begin with “why?” but Jadakiss cleverly rhymes these questions over a Havoc-produced instrumental. “Why?” is one of Jadakiss’s best collaborations as he enlists Anthony Hamilton for the song’s chorus, providing his signature soul. The chorus is incredibly catchy and makes for an undeniable hit.
“U Make Me Wanna” (2004)
A majority of Jadakiss songs consist of bar-heavy raps over hard-hitting production, which his raspy voice goes so well with. Much like “Why?” with Anthony Hamilton, Jadakiss has made his fair share of R&B collaborations, including “U Make Me Wanna” with Mariah Carey. Though this song is more subdued and radio-friendly than a typical Jadakiss song, he does not compromise his rap style. The Scott Storch-produced beat along with Mariah Carey’s soft vocals and Jadakiss’s raps are the formula for a hit song. “U Make Me Wanna” is definitely a song for the ladies, but the song works because the collaboration is so strong.
“Cartel Gathering” (2009)
Jadakiss’s third studio album, The Last Kiss has a more polished sound than his first two albums, which both had hit records on them. The production is not as tough but the rapping definitely is. On “Cartel Gathering,” Jadaiss recruits Raekwon and Ghostface Killah, who are known for their tight chemistry as a duo similar to Kiss and Styles. The song does not have the typical Wu-Tang or Lox sounds but Jadakiss, Ghostface, and Raekwon perform at a high level. The magic of the song lies in each MC’s vocal inflections; Ghost’s voice is high, Rae’s is low and breathy, and Jada’s is raspy.
“By My Side” (2009)
Jadakiss has a spotless track record when it comes to collaborating with singers such as Usher, Anthony Hamilton, and Mariah Carey. “By My Side” is arguably the best R&B collaboration that Jadakiss has done as he links up with Ne-Yo for a smash single. Jadakiss spits over the uptempo groove of the glamorous instrumental. He raps about how “every good woman needs a thug.” Ne-Yo provides the perfect chorus about how he needs his lady by his side.
“Something Dirty / Pic Got Us” (2018)
Jadakiss has an extensive history of collaborating with both Styles P and Swizz Beatz, working with both of them early in his career. That history is what makes “Something Dirty / Pic Got Us” from Swizz’s Poison album so special. The song has a classic, traditional feel from the early Lox days even though it came out five years ago. Jadakiss and Styles P go back and forth while Swizz handles the beats and adlibs. Kendrick Lamar holds down the hook. He unfortunately does not contribute a verse, his hook brings the song together nicely.
“Huntin Season” (2020)
Jadakiss’s signature rasp voice is made for menacing hip hop tracks and “Huntin Season” is a perfect example. The drums on the beat are knocking and Jada’s voice goes perfectly with it. “Huntin Season” is one of his best collaborations as he teams up with Pusha T, who keeps the same energy with his high-level street raps. They set themselves apart from the rest as “when [they] think of these rappers, it’s huntin season.”
“Gov’t Cheese” (2020)
On this standout track from Jadakiss’s Ignatius album, everyone on the song understands the assignment. It is a song about pain and struggle and every feature does their part extremely well. Dej Loaf stands out with a heartfelt hook then Nino Man sets the bar with a killer verse. Boston rapper Millyz steals the show as he captures the listener’s attention with his imagery and melody. Jadakiss finishes the song with an effortlessly sincere verse. It stands out among the best Jadakiss songs and collaborations.
“America Is Canceled” (2020)
Released following the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, this song from Statik Selektah’s album is quite powerful in its messaging. The verses from Jadakiss, Termanology, and Styles P felt very urgent in the context of America’s political landscape in 2020. Over a jazzy beat, the three cover different serious topics about the state of the country. Termanology raps about police brutality, Jadakiss discusess racism, and Styles P covers topics of gentrification and Black education.
“King Kong Riddim” (2021)
The lead single from The Harder They Fall is a monumental collaboration between Jadakiss, Conway The Machine, JAY-Z, and BackRoad Gee. Each rapper brings a unique flow to the song’s off-kilter and minimal instrumental. BackRoad Gee’s aggressive hook sets the tone for the three rappers to spit. Jadakiss sets the bar incredibly high, effortlessly flowing over the beat’s unorthodox rhythm. Conway The Machine spits braggadocious bars before JAY-Z finishes the song with magnificent extended metaphors. “King Kong Riddim” is not only a exceptional song, but marks a historic collaboration between different generations of hip hop.
There are very few rappers who could get Jadakiss to rewrite a verse. Apparently, Kodak Black is one of them. During his appearance on The Breakfast Club, Jadakiss explained that besides the late Biggie Smalls, the Florida rapper requested that he redo his verse on their 2018 collaboration, “Mama.” After he was asked which artists made the request, Jadakiss said, “Kodak Black. My man Yak!” He added, “Yak told me to switch it, yeah, and it was like a song about our moms.”
As you could imagine, Jadakiss was taken aback by a then-20-something-year-old rapper asking him to rewrite a verse. As mentioned earlier, the only other artist to make such a request was Biggie Smalls when The LOX recorded “Last Days.” “I’m like, ‘Yak…’ But I switched it and he like, ‘No doubt.’ I’m a person that’s easy to work with. It was funny to me,” Jadakiss recalled. “I think I spoke to him, we was on—he asked me, he actually said it, I think.”
Jadakiss Recalls Kodak Black Collab
Besides working with Kodak Black, Jadakiss has some major plans in store for 2023. The rapper revealed that he has two solo albums expected to drop this year, along with a group project with The LOX to fulfill his contract with Def Jam. “I’m still the Samurai,” he said. “I’ma drop two projects this year, maybe three. A LOX joint and definitely two Kiss joints — fulfill my Def Jam contract and then do some other lucrative business that’s mainly beneficial for me. I think that’s what it’s about.”
He also recently revealed that he would be interested in going back into the Verzuz ring after Jim Jones called him out. “You gotta talk to my advisors (laughs). I would love to run it back, you know what I mean? Why not? For sure,” Jadakiss said. No word on if or when this might go down but we hope to see a second round of The LOX vs. Dipset sometime this summer. Check out Jadakiss’ recent comments about Kodak Black above and sound off with your thoughts in the comments.
Swizz Beatz is back with a new video for “Say Less.” The single featuring A Boogie wit da Hoodie and Lil Durk can be found on Swizz’s collaborative EP with Mass Appeal, Hip Hop 50: Vol 2.
The 6-track project marks the second EP in Mass Appeal’s Hip Hop 50: The Soundtrack. Coming off the first installment of the EP series with DJ Premier’s Hip Hop 50 Vol. 1, Hip Hop 50: Vol. 2 is entirely produced by Swizz Beatz. The EP is an ode to New York rap and includes star-studded features from Nas, Lil Wayne, Lil Durk, A Boogie wit da Hoodie, Jadakiss, Jay Electronica, Benny The Butcher, Fivio Foreign, Scar Lipand Bandmanrill. Fans can also stay tuned for the “Say Less” video featuring Lil Durk & A Boogie wit da Hoodie releasing next week.
Hip Hop 50: Vol. 2is the culmination of Swizz Beatz’s career spanning over two decades and the sound that inspired it. The Verzuz creator first rose to prominence as a Ruff Ryder producing songs for DMX and Eve. The success of “Ruff Ryder’s Anthem” launched Beatz’s career as a highly sought-after and regarded artist. He’s since gone on to create some of the most prolific songs in Hip Hop, working with JAY-Z, Noreaga, Busta Rhymes, Cassidy, Nas, Rakim, Lil Wayne, and many more. Hip Hop 50: Vol. 2will be followed by eight more EPs from iconic figures who’ve had a hand in expanding the culture from the streets of the Bronx to the global community. Hip Hop 50: The Soundtrack, distributed via Mass Appeal’s new deal with The Orchard, is the score to the biggest birthday bash ever.
A portion of all Hip Hop 50 proceeds will be donated to the various charitable organizations, including, the Universal Hip Hop Museum set to open its doors in 2024. Mass Appeal recently announced Hip Hop 50 partnerships with CÎROC Ultra-Premium Vodka – the official Vodka of #HipHop50, as well as Google Pixel and Sony Music Entertainment. In January, Mass Appeal partnered with Fotografiska to launch Hip Hop Conscious, Unconscious exhibition – currently on view in New York City till May 21st before traveling to other locations. Additionally, Mass Appeal has teamed up with Live Nation Urban to produce live event programming, as well as Paramount + / Showtime for a premium content partnership with captivating documentaries such as: YOU’RE WATCHING VIDEO MUSIC BOX, CYPRESS HILL: INSANE IN THE BRAIN, SUPREME TEAM and more.
