The Rise of Rappers: How Travis Scott and Machine Gun Kelly’s Net Worth Diverged in 2020
Rap music has taken the world by storm in recent years, and with it, the fortunes of its biggest stars have skyrocketed. Two of the most notable rappers of our time, Travis Scott and Machine Gun Kelly, have been making headlines for their astronomical net worth. But what sets them apart, and how did their fortunes diverge in 2020?
A Rise to Fame for Travis Scott
Travis Scott, whose real name is Jacques Webster, rose to fame with his debut mixtape “Owl Pharaoh” in 2013. However, it was his third studio album, “Astroworld,” released in 2018, that catapulted him to global superstardom. The album spawned several chart-topping hits, including “Sicko Mode” and “Butterfly Effect.” This commercial success catapulted his net worth to over $70 million by 2020.
Machine Gun Kelly’s Breakthrough and Banking
Machine Gun Kelly, alternatively known as Colson Baker, started his career in the music industry in the late 2000s, releasing his debut mixtape “Stamp of Approval” in 2006. However, it was his second studio album, “Lace Up,” released in 2012, that gained him significant attention. In 2020, his net worth stood at approximately $20 million, largely due to successful tours and endorsement deals.
Why Did Their Net Worth Diverge?
So, what factors contributed to this significant disparity in net worth between the two rappers? One key reason is their respective album sales and streaming figures. Travis Scott’s “Astroworld” sold over 1 million copies in the United States alone, compared to Machine Gun Kelly’s “Hotel Diablo,” which sold slightly over 500,000 copies. Furthermore, Travis Scott’s “Astroworld” generated over 7 billion streams on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, whereas Machine Gun Kelly’s “Hotel Diablo” garnered around 2 million streams.
Investments and Endorsements
Another significant factor contributing to Travis Scott’s higher net worth is his savvy business acumen. He owns a minority stake in Cactus Jack Records, a record label he founded in 2017. This venture has allowed him to sign talented artists and produce music, further increasing his revenue. Travis Scott has also partnered with several top brands, including Nike and McDonald’s, which have contributed to his substantial net worth.
Philanthropy and Public Image
While both rappers have shown generosity through charitable donations, Travis Scott has been more visible in his philanthropic efforts, particularly through his Astroworld Foundation. The foundation has supported various causes, including education, arts, and health initiatives, which have positively impacted his public image and further solidified his connection with his fans.
The Future of Rap Music and Its Stars
The music industry is constantly evolving, and it will be interesting to see how Travis Scott and Machine Gun Kelly’s fortunes continue to diverge in the coming years. With the rise of social media and streaming platforms, it’s easier for artists to connect with their audience and build their brand. However, the key to lasting success lies in the artist’s ability to adapt and innovate, while maintaining a strong connection with their fans.
Conclusion:
The net worth of Travis Scott and Machine Gun Kelly serves as a fascinating case study in the music industry. While both rappers have achieved significant success, their net worth diverged in 2020 due to various factors, including album sales, streaming figures, business ventures, philanthropy, and public image. As the music industry continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see which rappers rise to the top and build lasting legacies.
