One of the most unmissable and critically acclaimed youngest hip-hop stars today is NBA YoungBoy, also known as Cantrell DeSean Gaulden. And the 24-year-old Baton Rouge native, fresh from pushing super hit music out of himself, has indeed earned an overwhelming fan base alongside chart-topping hits and a fortune that shows one’s religious commitment to grinding. But what is NBA YoungBoy’s true net worth, and how did he achieve so much financial success despite his legal and personal challenges? In this deep dive, we’ll explore his career, income streams, and the factors that shaped his wealth—while answering fans’ most burning questions.
NBA YoungBoy’s Rise: From the Streets to Stardom
NBA YoungBoy’s rise to fame was not an easy journey of privilege. Born into poverty, he turned to music as an escape from a tumultuous childhood that included family struggles and run-ins with the law. At 16, he released his breakout mixtape 38 Baby, which introduced his raw, emotional storytelling and rugged Southern voice. His authenticity resonated with audiences, catapulting him into the rap spotlight.
By 2020, he had become the most-watched artist on YouTube, surpassing giants like Drake and Taylor Swift. His ability to release music at a blistering pace — releasing more than 20 mixtapes and albums in just seven years — solidified his reputation as a workhorse. But how did that translate into his NBA YoungBoy net worth?
Breaking Down NBA YoungBoy’s Net Worth in 2023
As of 2023, the estimated net worth of NBA YoungBoy is about **12 million. The net worth of this rapper is stated to be about $12 million according to CelebrityNetWorth. Compared with his peers-though at a very different stratosphere-his $12 million net worth pales to the likes of Drake ($250 million) and Kanye West ($400 million), yet it has proved his own independent hustle as well as adaptability. Let’s break down the main sources that will keep feeding his coffers: 1. Sales and streaming from music Streaming NBA YoungBoy NBA YoungBoy is massive on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music. He has more than 14 million people streaming him per month on Spotify. He derives approximately
300,000
–
300,000–500,000 from streaming per month. His album Sincere, Cantrell released in 2021 debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, demonstrating his commercial viability, even with virtually no radio support.
- YouTube Monetization
YoungBoy’s YouTube channel has 12.8 million subscribers and 8.7 billion total views. Even after taking away the platform fees, it probably earns
5–10 million annually from advertising and partnerships.
- Legal battles and financial drain
While his career has gone well, legal issues have drained him. YoungBoy has been arrested several times, including a 2020 federal gun charge that put him under house arrest. The legal fees and settlements have reportedly cost him dearly.
1
–
1-2 million, long time accumulation of this fortune.
- Advantages of the Independent Label
In most cases, artists signed to major labels do not own their masters. However, YoungBoy has Never Broke Again, an imprint through which he owns his masters, thereby reaping most of the 70-80% gains from his music, which is a rare case in the industry.
Obstacles Encountering NBA YoungBoy’s Wealth
NBA YoungBoy’s career is paradoxical because it has reflected both success and struggle. Probation violations, custody battles, and other legal issues have made his life pretty expensive. Recently, in 2022, he was sent to house arrest, which doesn’t allow him to tour – the rapper’s main source of income.
Moreover, his nonconformity to the established norms of the industry (for example, not appearing at award shows) has kept him relatively underground. However, this same authenticity feeds his zealous fan base. As he once put it: “I don’t need validation. My fans are my award.”
NBA YoungBoy vs. His Contemporaries: How Does He Compare?
Here’s how YoungBoy compares with other young rappers (2023 estimates):
Lil Baby: $8 million
Roddy Rich: $20 million
Lil Durk: $8 million
While NBA YoungBoy has a net worth greater than some, it trails artists who have major label deals or diversified revenue streams, such as endorsements or fashion lines. However, this independence will also mean that YoungBoy maintains complete control over his earnings long term, a savvy move.
The Future of NBA YoungBoy’s Financial Empire
At 24, YoungBoy has the potential to be limitless. Tours, collaborations, and even acting may catapult him into superstar status if he steers clear of further litigation. He has indeed hinted at retiring at 25 to focus on family and his business ventures. Fans, however, are not so optimistic, given his tendency for overwork.
Questions and Answers from NBA YoungBoy’s FAQs
Q1: What is the real name of NBA YoungBoy?
A: His birth name is Cantrell DeSean Golden.
Q2: How does NBA YoungBoy make money when he’s not touring?
A: He streams, draws revenue from YouTube, and sells live music. He keeps releasing (3-4 projects per year), so his cash flow is constant.
Q3: Do legal issues help NBA YoungBoy’s net worth?
A: Sure. He’s lost millions to legal fees and touring bans but still generates constant revenue from fans who stream his work.
Q4: Which one of NBA YoungBoy’s albums is the most profitable?
A: AI YoungBoy 2 (2019) is a platinum album, and it sold more than $3 million.
Q5: Does NBA YoungBoy own his music?
A: Yes! With Never Broke Again, he owns all his masters to maximize profits.
Conclusion: The hustle behind the numbers
The number in NBA YoungBoy’s bank account is a result of the sweat, struggle, and strong relationship he shares with his audience. His path to success was paved with several bumps, but it is this very ability to generate money that sets him apart from others. In his adulthood, with his status as a father to 10 children, it is sure that the NBA YoungBoy saga will continue.
Whether you admire his music or question his choices, there’s no denying that Cantrell Golden is a modern rap phenomenon. And with millions still streaming his tracks daily, NBA YoungBoy’s net worth is set to soar just like his legacy.
Also read Longest Losing Streak in NBA History: A Tale of Struggle
