Net Worth Ranker
What Is J. Prince’s Net Worth?
J. Prince, an influential figure in the American entertainment and business sectors, has accumulated a considerable net worth of $25 million. His financial success is primarily attributed to his role as the CEO of Houston-based Rap-A-Lot Records, a label that has significantly impacted the hip-hop industry, particularly in the Southern United States. Beyond his ventures in the music industry, J. Prince has also managed prominent boxers like Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Shakur Stevenson, further diversifying his income streams.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born James L. Smith on October 31, 1965, J. Prince’s early life was marked by humble beginnings in Houston’s Fifth Ward, specifically in the Coke Apartments, an area also known as “the Bloody Nickel.” His mother, Sharon Johnson, was sixteen when she gave birth to him and already had a one-year-old daughter, Zenia. Prince attended Kashmere High School, where he played football, and supplemented his income by mowing lawns and working on welding trucks. After graduating from high school, J. Prince secured a position in the Colonial Savings and Loan’s Fault Department. Following a layoff two years later, he transitioned into restoring and selling vehicles, eventually establishing Smith Auto Sales and specializing in exotic cars. His clientele primarily consisted of athletes with substantial disposable income. By age 21, J. Prince had accumulated over $100,000. With these savings, he purchased a 30-acre ranch and a house for his mother by the age of 23.
The Rise of Rap-A-Lot Records
In 1986, J. Prince founded Rap-A-Lot Records in Houston, initially operating the company from the second floor of his auto shop. His primary motivation was to provide his younger brother with a constructive activity to steer him away from the streets. The label also operates under the sub-label Smoke-A-Lot Records. In 1988, he relocated the label to New York City and observed Russell Simmons and Lyor Cohen, Def Jam executives. Rap-A-Lot’s most famous group, the Geto Boys, played a crucial role in putting Southern hip-hop on the map. J. Prince discovered rappers Scarface and Willie D, and the company launched “Grip It! On That Other Level” in 1989. In 1989, Rap-A-Lot faced investigation by the federal government. After no illegal activities were found, the case was dropped. The label maintained its success and focus on gangsta and Southern rap. From 1991 to 1994, it was distributed by EMI labels Priority Records, followed by Virgin Records from 1994 to 2000. During the 2000s, it was distributed by WEA’s Asylum Records. The Notorious B.I.G. referenced the label in the song “Flava in Ya Ear (remix),” with the line “I’m not from Houston, but I Rap-a-Lot.” At the end of the Devin the Dude song “What a Job” featuring Snoop Dogg, Snoop congratulates the record company by saying, “J. Prince, Jas Prince, Rap-a-Lot, still on top, 2007.”
J’s son Jay Prince has a label distributed by Rap-A-Lot called Southern Empire Entertainment. Jas Prince discovered Young Money/Ca$h Money/Universal Records recording artist Drake and holds the artist in a Rap-A-Lot management contract. He introduced Drake to rapper Lil Wayne which paved the way to get him signed to Young Money in early 2009.
Literary and Business Ventures
J. Prince expanded his influence beyond the music industry by publishing his memoir, “The Art & Science of Respect: A Memoir,” in 2018. This book provides insights into his life, career, and philosophy on respect. In 2020, he ventured into the liquor and wine industry with the launch of his brand, Loyalty. However, specific financial details, such as the initial investment and revenue generated by the Loyalty brand, have not been publicly disclosed.
Philanthropic Endeavors
J. Prince has dedicated over two decades to promoting Houston’s rap scene and artists. He is involved in initiatives to support underprivileged neighborhoods and communities. He initiated the construction of a community center in his old 5th Ward neighborhood to assist young children, teens, and adults in improving their lives. The Houston City Council and Mayor Bill White honored J. Prince by naming January 30, 2007, as J. Prince Day. In February 2007, Prince launched a campaign to educate youths about HIV/AIDS prevention and testing. In December 2007, he donated $100,000 to Bread of Life’s Meals that Heal program in Houston.
Personal Life and Family
J. Prince is married and has seven adult children. His sons, J. Prince Jr., Jas, and Jay “Baby Jay,” are involved in the music and boxing industries. While specific details about his wife remain private, it is known that he has been married since the late 1980s. Prince owns a ranch in Houston, which generates approximately $200,000 annually from Angus cattle. Additionally, he owns an island off the coast of Belize known as Prince Island. However, precise financial figures, such as the purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs for Prince Island, are not publicly available.
