Cardi B is one of the most successful and influential female rappers in the music industry today. Born Belcalis Almanzar, Cardi B rose to fame with her debut single “Bodak Yellow” in 2017.
Since then, she has been making waves not only with her music but also with her entrepreneurial ventures. In this article, we will delve into how Cardi B made money and became a household name.
The Rise to Fame
Cardi B’s journey to success was not an overnight phenomenon. Before her music career took off, she gained popularity through social media platforms like Instagram and Vine. Her unfiltered personality and comedic videos resonated with audiences, quickly amassing a large following.
In 2015, Cardi B joined the cast of the reality TV show “Love & Hip Hop: New York,” which further boosted her visibility. Although she was already well-known on social media, this platform allowed her to showcase her charismatic personality on a larger scale.
During her time on the show, Cardi B began exploring opportunities in the music industry. She released a few mixtapes that received positive feedback from fans and critics alike. This marked the beginning of her transition from reality TV star to rap superstar.
The Breakthrough: “Bodak Yellow”
In June 2017, Cardi B released “Bodak Yellow,” which catapulted her to mainstream success. The single topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making Cardi B the first female rapper to achieve this feat since Lauryn Hill in 1998.
“Bodak Yellow” became a cultural phenomenon and established Cardi B as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. The success of this single opened doors for numerous opportunities for collaborations, performances, and endorsement deals.
Music Sales and Streaming
As an artist, Cardi B earns a significant portion of her income through music sales and streaming. Her debut studio album, “Invasion of Privacy,” released in 2018, received critical acclaim and commercial success. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and has been certified triple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
In addition to album sales, Cardi B’s songs are streamed millions of times on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. These streams contribute to her revenue through royalties paid by these platforms.
Live Performances and Tours
Cardi B is known for her energetic performances that captivate audiences worldwide. Live performances play a significant role in an artist’s income, as they allow them to connect with fans directly while generating revenue from ticket sales.
Since her breakthrough, Cardi B has embarked on several successful tours around the globe. Her live shows are highly sought after and often sell out quickly due to her immense popularity.
Endorsement Deals
Cardi B’s rise to fame has attracted numerous endorsement opportunities from various brands. She has collaborated with major companies like PepsiCo, Reebok, Fashion Nova, and more.
These endorsement deals not only provide additional income but also contribute to Cardi B’s overall brand image. By associating herself with reputable brands, she solidifies her status as a successful entrepreneur beyond just music.
Television and Film
In addition to her musical endeavors, Cardi B has also ventured into television and film. She made her acting debut in the movie “Hustlers” alongside Jennifer Lopez in 2019, receiving positive reviews for her performance.
Cardi B has also appeared as a judge on the reality TV show “Rhythm + Flow” and made guest appearances on popular shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.” These television and film appearances further contribute to her income and expand her reach to new audiences.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
Cardi B’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond music and entertainment. She has launched her own fashion line in collaboration with Fashion Nova, which offers affordable and trendy clothing options.
Additionally, Cardi B has ventured into the beauty industry by collaborating with brands like MAC Cosmetics. She released a limited-edition lipstick shade called “Cardi B” that sold out within minutes of its release.
In Conclusion
Cardi B’s journey from social media star to music icon is a testament to her talent, hard work, and business acumen. Through music sales, live performances, endorsement deals, television appearances, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has built an empire and secured her place in pop culture history.
As Cardi B continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, it will be exciting to witness what she accomplishes next in her career.