How much money does Memphis Bleek really have? As a longtime protégé of Jay-Z and a key figure in Roc-A-Fella Records, many fans assume he built substantial wealth.
However, his financial story is more complex than expected. While he once enjoyed success in the music industry, financial struggles, including bankruptcy, have shaped his journey.
In this article, Aupeo breaks down Memphis Bleek net worth, income sources, financial setbacks, and business ventures. If you’re curious about how he built—and lost—his fortune, keep reading.
Memphis Bleek Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | Malik Deshawn Cox |
Popular Name | Memphis Bleek |
Birth Date | June 23, 1978 |
Age (as of 03/11/2025) | 46 |
Birthplace | Brooklyn, New York, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African-American |
Education | N/A |
Marital Status | Married |
Spouse | Ashley Coombs |
Children | Two (Son: 2002, Daughter: 2018) |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | One older brother |
Parents | N/A |
Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) |
Net Worth | $200,000 (estimated) |
Source of Wealth | Music, Record Labels, Business |
What is the Net Worth Of Memphis Bleek in 2025?
As of 2025, Memphis Bleek’s net worth is estimated at $200,000. Despite his early success with Roc-A-Fella Records and four studio albums—two of which achieved Gold certification—his financial standing is modest compared to his peers.
For context, Jay-Z, his longtime mentor, boasts a billion-dollar empire, while Beanie Sigel and Casanova have also built their own financial paths.
Memphis Bleek’s decision to start his own label, Get Low Records, and later Warehouse Music Group, contributed to his income but did not generate sustained wealth.
His financial challenges became evident in 2016 when he filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, citing debts surpassing his assets. Unlike some of his Roc-A-Fella peers, he never reached the financial heights of rap’s elite. However, his journey remains a case study in music industry economics.
Related Figures in His Financial Story
- Jay-Z
- Roc-A-Fella Records
- Get Low Records
- Warehouse Music Group
- Mass Appeal Entertainment
- IRS
- Beanie Sigel
- Missy Elliott
- Casanova
- Rihanna
Interested in how other hip-hop stars rank financially? Check out this list of the richest celebrities.
Memphis Bleek Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn and What Are His Financial Sources?
Memphis Bleek’s earnings primarily came from music, business, and touring. His biggest income sources included:
- Album Sales – He released four studio albums, with Coming of Age and The Understanding achieving Gold certification. These albums brought in revenue but were not blockbuster hits.
- Collaborations and Features – He appeared on several Jay-Z albums, including Reasonable Doubt and The Blueprint 2, which boosted his exposure.
- Touring and Performances – He worked as Jay-Z’s hype man for years, earning money from live shows.
- Record Labels – He founded Get Low Records (1998) and later Warehouse Music Group (2016), signing artists like Casanova.
- Other Ventures – He had business deals but none that matched Jay-Z’s billionaire empire.
Did He Face Financial Struggles?
Yes, his finances declined over time. In 2016, he filed for bankruptcy, revealing:
- Assets: $274,190 (including a house in New Jersey, a Chevy Impala, and personal items).
- Liabilities: $384,804 (debts included $9,000 owed to the IRS and $13,000 in court fines).
- Bank Balance: $0, with only $100 in cash at the time.
- Income: $6,000 per month, with $5,350 in expenses, leaving him little financial flexibility.
Unlike some rappers who recover financially, Bleek struggled to bounce back fully.
What Businesses and Investments Does He Own?
He attempted to build wealth beyond music with two major business ventures:
- Get Low Records (1998) – A label launched under Roc-A-Fella, though it didn’t achieve major success.
- Warehouse Music Group (2016) – A second label where he signed Casanova and Manolo Rose.
Although these ventures provided additional income, they were not game-changers in his financial recovery.
What Are His Most Successful Music Projects?
While his wealth fluctuated, his music career left a mark. His most notable projects include:
- Best-Selling Album: Coming of Age (1999) – Peaked at #7 on the Billboard 200.
- Biggest Hit Single: Is That Yo Chick (feat. Jay-Z & Missy Elliott) – Peaked at #7 on Billboard Hot Rap Singles.
- Collaborations: Worked with Jay-Z, Rihanna, Beanie Sigel, DMX, Ja Rule, and T.I..
Has He Received Financial Help from Industry Peers?
Despite rumors, Jay-Z did not bail him out financially. Instead, Jay-Z encouraged Bleek to run his own label and become independent.
While he had the support of Roc-A-Fella Records, he never relied on others for long-term financial help.
What Lessons Can Be Learned from His Financial Journey?
Memphis Bleek’s financial ups and downs offer key takeaways:
- Success in music doesn’t guarantee long-term wealth.
- Financial management is crucial, even for famous artists.
- Business ventures need proper execution to thrive.
- Debt can be a major downfall if not managed properly.
Conclusion
Memphis Bleek’s net worth tells a story of early success, financial struggles, and ongoing efforts to rebuild. While he never reached Jay-Z’s billionaire status, his impact on hip-hop remains. Want to learn more about celebrity finances? Visit Aupeo.