Got your mind on your money and your money on your mind? You’re not the only one. It turns out that a lot of rap moguls have some legit financial lessons to share. From building empires to making savvy investments, many artists have transformed their hustle into lessons that can teach us all a thing or two about managing money. Here are a few of our favorite financial mic drops from money-savvy rappers.
1. ‘Save Dat Money’ – Lil Dicky
Lil Dicky’s anthem “Save Dat Money” might not seem serious at first, but it’s got a message that’s as real as it gets. The lyrics are all about living below your means and saving money, even when it’s tempting to splurge on luxuries. Lil Dicky’s approach? He’d rather save his cash than blow it all on Lamborghinis and fancy parties.
This is one of the most critical financial lessons: financial stability starts with smart spending. It’s about finding joy in living within your means and building up that savings account instead of trying to keep up with a lifestyle that can drain your wallet. You don’t have to spend big to live big, and Lil Dicky’s ‘Save Dat Money’ is the perfect reminder to keep your eye (and your mind) on your money.
2. ‘Financial Freedom’s My Only Hope’ – Jay-Z, (‘The Story of O.J.’)
Jay-Z, one of the most successful artists-turned-entrepreneurs, drops plenty of financial gems in his music, but ‘The Story of O.J.’ is a masterclass in wealth building. In this track, he raps that ‘financial freedom’s my only hope / f*** livin’ rich and dyin’ broke.’ Jay-Z emphasizes the importance of financial independence and generational wealth over simply looking rich.
The lesson here? It’s not about what you flaunt—it’s about what you keep and how you invest it. Jay-Z’s lyrics encourage listeners to focus on long-term goals like saving, investing, and building assets that grow over time. Real wealth isn’t just about looking successful on the outside; it’s about making smart decisions that set you up for a financially secure future.
3. ‘I’m Not a Businessman, I’m a Business, Man’ – Jay-Z (Again!)
Okay, Jay-Z makes our list twice, but can you blame us? His line from Kanye West’s ‘Diamonds from Sierra Leone (Remix)’ is iconic for a reason. When he says, ‘I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man,’ he’s talking about turning himself into a brand, leveraging his name and influence to build an empire.
This line is a powerful reminder that you can be your own best asset. Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or just building a career, investing in yourself can pay off huge. It’s all about taking your skills, talents, and reputation and turning them into something profitable. Think of yourself as a brand, and never underestimate the power of networking, skill-building, and creating opportunities for yourself.
4. ‘Hustle Hard’ – Ace Hood
Ace Hood’s ‘Hustle Hard’ is the perfect anthem for anyone who’s out there grinding and working to achieve their goals. While the song focuses on the hustle culture that’s so central to rap, it’s also a reminder that financial success doesn’t come without effort. Ace Hood’s message is simple: if you want to make money, you’ve got to put in the work.
The takeaway here is the importance of persistence and dedication—one of the most important financial lessons. Whether you’re saving for a house, starting a new side hustle, or investing in the stock market, building wealth requires a consistent effort. Just like Ace Hood says, you’ve gotta hustle hard to make those financial dreams a reality. There’s no such thing as easy money, but if you’re willing to put in the time, the payoff can be huge.
5. ‘Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems’ – The Notorious B.I.G.
Let’s be real: sometimes, having more money comes with its own set of challenges, and the late Notorious B.I.G. knew this all too well. His classic hit ‘Mo’ Money, Mo’ Problems’ gets into the idea that more wealth can sometimes mean more headaches—whether it’s dealing with increased expenses, managing expectations, or attracting unwanted attention.
The lesson here is that with great financial success comes great responsibility. It’s crucial to stay grounded and have a plan for managing your finances as they grow. Earning more doesn’t necessarily mean you should spend more. It’s about finding balance, making smart investments, and remembering that money can’t solve every problem.
