Where Are They Now? Here's What the Original Cash Money Millionaires Are up to Today
Cash Money Records took over for the 99s and the 2000s, but where are the original artists who were signed to the label now? Here's the truth.
By D.M.Jan. 22 2024, Published 1:20 p.m. ET
Cash Money Records took over in the 99s and the 2000s, dropping hit after hit and dominating the hip-hop scene.
From its inception, the label introduced a roster of groundbreaking artists who became synonymous with the Southern rap movement. Founded in 1991 by Birdman and his brother, Ronald “Slim” Williams,” the label played a pivotal role in shaping the musical landscape.
The original Cash Money Records artists – namely Lil Wayne, Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, Turk, and B.G. – have since become rap icons.
Despite their early success, artists signed to Cash Money Records have openly discussed their disdain for the label. While many of the artists originally signed to the label have since left the collective, others have remained faithful to their Cash Money roots.
So, where are they now? Read for an update on the original Cash Money Millionaires.
Mannie Fresh
When Cash Money Records began, Mannie Fresh was hired to be the label’s in-house producer. He is credited as the engineering mind behind some of the label’s biggest releases — including songs by Lil Wayne and Juvenile.
His musical abilities allowed him to seamlessly transition from producer to artist.
While Mannie sometimes appears for special performances, he has largely stepped away from the music scene. In April 2023, Mannie sold his entire music catalog to Reservoir Media, relinquishing his publishing and recording rights.
Turk
Turk’s life after Cash Money was riddled with turmoil.
In 2004, the rapper was arrested after a shootout with police officers who were attempting to execute a search warrant on his home. Per MTV News, two officers were wounded in the altercation – which resulted in Turk spending close to nine years in jail.
A year before the incident, Turk left Cash Money. However, he later expressed regret for that decision. “I should have stayed with Cash Money,” he said during an appearance on Big Facts.
B.G.
Like Turk, B.G.’s time in the spotlight was filled with trials and tribulations.
B.G. – also known as Baby Gangsta – was arrested in 2012 for witness tampering and gun possession. The rapper was sentenced to 14 years in prison but was released into community confinement in September 2023 (according to TMZ.)
Upon his release, Birdman was there to welcome B.G. home – a clear sign the two are still on good terms.
Juvenile
Juvenile carved out a distinct style that continues to resonate with fans. However, his time with the label was riddled with drama.
Juvie left the label in 2001 but returned in 2014.
“Way back then we cleared up everything we had between each other because they paid me,” Juvenile told Rolling Stone of the contractual dispute that caused him to part ways with the label. "We settled the money thing. That was way back and that was solved.”
Juvenile is still signed to Cash Money and even released a joint album with Birdman in 2019.
Lil Wayne
Following his tenure with Cash Money Records, Weezy pursued a solo career that saw him achieve unparalleled success.
He scored his first Billboard Hot 100 hit with 2008’s “Lollipop,” which also earned the rapper his first Grammy Award.
Despite his success with the label, Lil Wayne left Cash Money in 2018. The rapper cited financial disputes and creative conflicts as reasons for his exit. He later sued the label and reportedly walked away with an eight-figure settlement.
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