The Jay-Z Brand Decoder

Prolific, cryptic, and intellectual, Jay-Z is a rap icon whose brand goes well beyond the music

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

Hip-hop has more than a few playaz in the 35 percent tax bracket. Lil Wayne's not-so-little bank account holds an estimated $85 million. 50 Cent, with a net value of $250 million, has the distinction of being worth 500 million times the amount in his name. But of these musicians/businessmen (they've all done an endorsement deal or two, and can certainly sell music)–only one has leapfrogged the demographic boundaries of rap to become, in one cross-cultural, multi-categorical swoop, a living brand.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in