What Is Parrish Smith’s Net Worth?
Parrish Smith, also known as PMD, is an American rap artist who has built a notable career in hip-hop. As of 2024, his estimated net worth is $1.5 million. This wealth primarily stems from his contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as one half of the influential hip-hop duo EPMD.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Parrish J. Smith was born on May 13, 1968, in Brentwood, Long Island, New York. Growing up in Brentwood, he attended Brentwood High School where he met Erick Sermon, who would later become his partner in EPMD. He was exposed to various genres of music such as jazz, funk, soul, rock, and reggae. At the age of 12, he started rapping, drawing inspiration from pioneers like Grandmaster Flash, Kurtis Blow, Run DMC, and LL Cool J. In 1987, Parrish and Eric formed EPMD (Erick and Parrish Making Dollars) after meeting at a block party in 1986, marking the beginning of his professional music journey.
EPMD: A Foundation for Financial Success
EPMD’s discography includes seven studio albums, which significantly contributed to Parrish Smith’s financial standing. Their debut album, “Strictly Business,” released in 1988, achieved Gold certification. “Strictly Business” stood out with its funk-flavored, sample-heavy sound, instantly establishing EPMD as an influential force in the genre. In 1989, they released “Unfinished Business”, which also earned Gold certification. “Business as Usual,” released in 1991, also went Gold, maintaining their streak of successful albums. “Business Never Personal” continued their success in 1992, also achieving Gold status. “Back in Business”, released in 1997, also reached Gold certification, selling 500,000 copies in the United States. The album peaked at number 16 on the Billboard 200 and number 4 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. EPMD has sold over 2,500,000 albums in the United States. The best-selling album by EPMD is “Unfinished Business,” which sold over 500,000 copies.
Solo Career and Chart Success
Beyond his work with EPMD, Parrish Smith has also established himself as a solo artist. He has released four solo albums: “Shade Business” (1994), which reached number 65 on the US Billboard 200 and number 12 on the US R&B/Hip-Hop chart, “Business is Business” (1996), “Underground Connection,” and “The Awakening” (2003). While specific sales figures for his solo albums are not widely available, several of his songs, including “I Saw It Coming,” “Swing Your Own Thing,” and “Rugged-n-Raw” (featuring Das EFX), charted in the Top 40 on the U.S. Rap charts. These chart placements contributed to his income through royalties and performance fees.
Touring and Performances
Parrish Smith has consistently toured the United States and Europe, both as a solo act and with EPMD. His appearances at events like the Midatlantic Music Conference, Rock the Bells, and the Lawyers4Musicians Hiphop Showcase have provided significant performance revenue. While exact figures for his touring income are not publicly detailed, consistent touring over decades would have contributed substantially to his net worth.
Real Estate and Assets
Information regarding Parrish Smith’s real estate holdings and specific assets is limited. However, it’s noted that he is known to own a house in Brentwood, New York, where he grew up and still resides. He also owns a recording studio in Long Island, where he produces his own music and works with other artists. The financial value of these assets contributes to his overall net worth.
Vehicles
Parrish Smith has been seen driving various car models such as a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a Cadillac Escalade, and a Chevrolet Suburban. The financial value of these cars also contributes to his overall net worth.