Jay-Z Is Hip-Hop’s Richest Rapper

Jay-Z has been unveiled as the hip-hop industries richest star in a new survey.

The rapper – real name Shawn Carter - narrowly topped the richlist ahead of fellow rapper 50 Cent.

The forbes.com ‘Hip-Hop Cash Kings’ survey reveals that Jay Z earned $34 million last year thanks in part to the success of his ‘Kingdom Come’ album.

The rapper’s substantial income was also bolstered by his role as the President and CEO of Def Jam Recordings and part ownership of the New Jersey Nets basketball team.

Curtis Jackson – who is better known as 50 Cent – came in second place on the list with earnings last year of $32 million.

The rest of the top five consisted of P Diddy, Timbaland and Dr Dre, reports NME.