Jay-Z has officially reached a new milestone: he is now the world’s richest musician with an estimated net worth of $2.5 billion. This achievement has sparked renewed debate about who earns more in the long run — musicians or footballers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Are musicians richer than footballers?
Footballers are known for making jaw-dropping salaries during their careers. Stars like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Kylian Mbappé can earn anywhere between $50 million to $200 million per year from wages, sponsorships, and endorsements.
However, football has an expiry date. Most players retire in their mid-to-late 30s, and once they stop playing, the enormous salaries dry up. Unless they build businesses or make strong investments, their wealth eventually slows down.
Musicians, on the other hand, have something footballers don’t — songs that live forever. A single hit can keep generating money from streaming, concerts, film licensing, adverts, and royalties long after the artist’s peak years.
Why does music create long-term wealth?
Music doesn’t just stop paying once a song is released. A classic hit can bring money decades later. Look at names like Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, and Bob Marley — their estates continue to earn millions every year.
This is why artists like Jay-Z, Rihanna, and Dr. Dre have climbed into billionaire status. They don’t just rely on music sales; they’ve expanded into fashion, liquor brands, tech, and investments that keep multiplying their fortunes.
How does Jay-Z make his money?
Jay-Z’s wealth comes from more than just rap. Some of his biggest business moves include:
Armand de Brignac champagne and D’Usse cognac – luxury drinks that made him hundreds of millions.
Roc Nation – his entertainment company that manages artists, athletes, and events.
Music catalog – his songs still stream worldwide, keeping royalties flowing. Investments in tech and real estate – which have appreciated over time.
Why are Messi and Ronaldo not as rich as Jay-Z?
Messi and Ronaldo are global icons, and both have net worths estimated between $600 million and $700 million. They are two of the richest athletes in history. But their wealth is mostly tied to active playing and endorsements. Once they retire, their earnings will slow down unless they grow their brands into long-term businesses.
Jay-Z, on the other hand, built wealth that doesn’t depend on his age or physical performance. Even if he never releases another album, his business empire and music catalog will continue to generate revenue.
