Kanye West is an American rapper, music producer, fashion designer and entreprenuer. As of 2024, Kanye West’s net worth is approximately $400 million—a significant drop from his former billionaire status.
West was once one of the three richest self made black billionaires in the United States. His massive net worth drop was primary fueled by the dissolution of his contract with Adidas.
Read on as we explore Kanye West’s net worth, lifestyle, and bold business moves that shaped his career.
Quick facts
| Full name | Kanye Omari West |
| Legal name | Ye |
| Date of birth | June 8, 1977 |
| Profession | Rapper, Music Producer, Fashion Designer |
| Family | Ex-wife: Kim Kardashian Children: Four (North, Saint, Chicago, Psalm) Wife: Bianca Censori |
| Notable albums | The College Dropout, Late Registration, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy |
| Yeezy Brand | Fashion line and sneaker collaboration with Adidas |
| Controversies | Antisemitic remarks, political statements, ‘White Lives Matter’ |
| Net worth | Approximately $400 million(2024) |
From music stardom to fashion icon
Kanye West first emerged as a music artist in the early 2000s, and quickly became popular as a rapper and producer. He released his debut album, The College Dropout, in 2004. The album, featuring innovative production style and introspective lyrics, propelled West into stardorm.
The success of this album led to other critically acclaimed albums, including Late Registration released in 2005, and My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy of 2010. These albums helped Kanye West secure his place as one of the most talented musicians of his time.
West leveraged his popularity and growing net worth to venture into fashion design. He eventually launched the Yeezy brand, producing high-end streetwear and sneakers.
In 2014, West struck a shoe collaboration deal with Adidas. The partnership turned Yeezy into a fashion empire, with the brand’s sales topping $1 billion in 2019.
However, Kanye recently lost his billionaire status after Adidas terminated its contract with the Yeezy brand after he made antisemitic remarks. The contract termination reportedly cost the American rapper $1.5 billion.
Yeezy’s influence and fall from billionaire status
Yeezy sneakers became a cultural phenomenon characterized by limited drops and high resale value. The sneakers garnered global attention, bringing an annual revenue of $1.5 billion. This propelled West into the Forbes World’s Billionaires List in 2020, making him one of the few rappers to achieve this milestone.
However, West’s public persona, marked by outspoken and often polarizing remarks, began to affect his partnerships, including his contract with Adidas.
In 2022, West faced public backlash following a series of antisemitic remarks. He also wore a White Lives Matter shirt in public, resulting in fierce criticism. These actions caused several companies to cut ties with him, including Adidas.
Despite the loss of his most lucrative deal, Kanye remains the owner of the Yeezy brand. With his massive and loyal fan base, the Yeezy brand remains a viable and profitable venture even without corporate backing.
Real estate investments and lifestyle choices
Kanye West has heavily invested in real estate across the United States, and his properties contribute significantly to his net worth. His real estate portfolio includes multiple homes in Hidden Hills, California, and two ranches in Wyoming.
Kanye acquired the two ranches in Wyoming with the aim of building a creative compound and event venue. However, these properties have not been developed, partly because Kanye shifted his focus to other interests.
West’s love for luxury extends beyond high-end properties. He owns a vast car collection that includes high-end luxury models like the Lamborghini Urus. In addition, he recently owned a private jet.
