Rap Queens Ruling the Business World: Female Rappers' Success Beyond Music
Female rappers are proving that you can be hot on the mic and strategic in the boardroom. These five MCs are also successful business owners!
By D.M.Mar. 28 2024, Published 4:32 p.m. ET
Female rappers are at the top of their game, dominating in the music and entrepreneurial spaces. The rise of female rappers in business reflects a shift in the rap community.
Female MCs are diversifying their portfolios, venturing into industries like fashion and technology. These artists are not only redefining success but also inspiring a new generation to pursue their passions outside of hip-hop.
Here are five female rappers who also own businesses.
Nicki Minaj is the queen of the boardroom.
Nicki Minaj attends the launch of the Nicki Minaj Collection at KMart
Since her introduction to the rap game in the 2010s, Nicki Minaj has made it a point to secure successful business deals. She launched a clothing collection with Kmart in 2013, which included clothing and accessories, per WSJ.
Since then, the “Moment 4 Life” rapper has created her own perfume, a MAC Cosmetics collection, and a beverage line. Nicki expanded her business portfolio with a line of press-on nails called the Pink Friday Nails, WWD reports.
Cardi B has several successful business ventures.
Cardi B and Starco Brands launch Whipshots at The Goodtime Hotel
GRAMMY-winning rapper Cardi B has ventured into various business endeavors. Since bursting onto the scene, Cardi has collaborated with major fashion brands like Fashion Nova and launched her own line of Reebok sneakers.
In 2021, the “Bodak Yellow” rapper partnered with Starco to launch Whipshots – a line of alcohol-infused whipped cream. Cardi has sold more than two million cans of the boozy treat, which is available at Walmart and other retailers.
Megan Thee Stallion owns a Popeyes restaurant.
Megan Thee Stallion at the Pre-GRAMMY Gala
There is no slowing Megan Thee Stallion down. Megan has worked with brands like Nike and Revlon, but she took things a step further when it comes to her Popeyes collab. In 2021, she forged a partnership with the chain, resulting in a deal that not only led to a six-figure donation but also granted Megan ownership of her very own Popeyes restaurant.
“I’m appreciative of Popeyes commitment to empowering Black women and look forward to opening Popeyes Restaurants,” she said, per Black Enterprise.
The City Girls are up, and Yung Miami is leading the charge.
Yung Miami speaks onstage during Day 2 of Revolt World.
City Girls star Yung Miami is becoming a mogul. The self-proclaimed “Black Oprah” has ventured into realms outside of music, proving she is more than just an entertainer.
Miami created her card game, Resha Roulette, and it’s become a best-seller on Amazon. Resha Roulette is an adult drinking game that comes with shot glasses and a stack of trivia cards. The game is inspired by Miami’s Caresha Please podcast, which gives guests the option to answer raunchy questions or take a drink.
JT is stepping into the fashion world with her own clothing line.
JT of the City Girls attends 2nd Annual The Black Ball Quality Control's CEO Pierre "Pee" Thomas Birthday Celebration
Yung Miami is not the only City Girl breaking into the business world. In July 2023, JT announced the launch of TheGirlJTWorld, a line of clothing inspired by her personal fashion choices. The collection includes hoodies, sweatpants, and other streetwear staples.
“Hope that y’all will love TheGirlJTWorld just as much as I do,” the rapper wrote on Instagram (via Yahoo). “I’m excited to explore fashion more as a lane for myself and can’t wait for you guys to see what I’ve been up to.”
