What Is Memphis Bleek Net Worth’ Net Worth?
As of 2023, Memphis Bleek’s net worth is estimated to be around $200,000. This figure is primarily attributed to his career as a rapper, record label owner, and his discography consisting of four albums.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Malik Deshawn Cox, known professionally as Memphis Bleek, was born on June 23, 1978, in New York City. He spent his formative years in the Marcy Projects, the same housing complex that housed Jay-Z. His cousin is Sean Price. Being in the same neighborhood as Jay-Z had a significant impact on the trajectory of his career.
Memphis Bleek started his career as a protégé of Jay-Z and was among the first artists signed to Roc-A-Fella Records, which was founded by Jay-Z. His initial exposure came through appearances on Jay-Z albums, including “Reasonable Doubt,” “The Dynasty: Roc La Familia,” and “The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse.” These early collaborations significantly raised his profile within the music industry.
Music Career and Album Releases
In 1999, Memphis Bleek released his debut album, “Coming of Age,” which peaked at number seven on the Billboard charts. The album sold approximately 120,000 units in its first week. This debut laid the groundwork for his subsequent releases and established him as a noteworthy artist in his own right.
His second album, “The Understanding,” achieved Gold certification, indicating sales of over 500,000 copies. Similarly, “M.A.D.E,” released in 2003, also reached Gold status. These certifications contributed significantly to his financial standing during that period.
In 2005, Memphis Bleek released “534,” which featured collaborations with Rihanna and Jay-Z. Although specifics about the album’s sales figures are not available, its commercial success was boosted by contributions from these well-known artists. One of his most commercially successful singles, “Is That Yo Chick,” featured Missy Elliott and Jay-Z and peaked at number seven on the Billboard charts.
Throughout his career, Bleek collaborated with many artists, including DMX, Ja Rule, T.I., Trick Daddy, Beanie Sigel, and Young Gunz. These collaborations increased his visibility and likely contributed to his income through royalties and performance fees.
Despite announcing an album titled “The Process” in 2005, it was never released. Later, he signed with Mass Appeal Entertainment, leaving Roc-A-Fella Records. Jay-Z supported this decision, advising Bleek to start his own company to achieve greater success.
In 2012, Memphis Bleek released “KG Vol. 2” and “The Movement” in collaboration with The Liberty Music Group. These releases, while not achieving the same commercial success as his earlier work, contributed to his income stream.
Record Label Ventures
Memphis Bleek founded his own record labels, Get Low Records and Warehouse Music Group. These ventures allowed him to explore opportunities beyond his recording career. However, detailed financial data regarding these labels is not publicly available.
Financial Issues and Bankruptcy
In 2016, Memphis Bleek filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, indicating significant financial difficulties. The filing revealed his total assets to be $274,190. These assets included a residence in New Jersey, a Chevy Impala, clothing, and wedding rings. His liabilities were listed at $384,804.
At the time of the bankruptcy filing, Memphis Bleek reported having no money in his bank account and only $100 in cash. The bankruptcy filing also indicated that his monthly income was approximately $6,000, with $5,350 coming from his business. His monthly expenses were about $5,350, leaving him with around $500 per month after expenses.
In addition to his mortgage and car payments, Memphis Bleek reportedly owed $9,000 to the IRS and $13,000 to the Monmouth County Superior Court. These financial obligations contributed to his decision to file for bankruptcy.
Personal Life and Marriage
In 2014, Memphis Bleek married Ashley Coombs in a ceremony in New Jersey. Jay-Z attended the wedding. In 2018, Coombs and Cox welcomed their first child.
Net Worth Over Time
While specific year-by-year income statistics are not publicly available, it is evident that Memphis Bleek’s net worth has fluctuated. His initial success in the late 1990s and early 2000s, marked by Gold and Platinum album certifications, likely contributed to a higher net worth during that period. However, financial issues and the bankruptcy filing in 2016 impacted his overall financial standing. As of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $200,000.
Assets
Memphis Bleek’s reported assets in 2016 included a residence in New Jersey, a Chevy Impala, clothing, and wedding rings. The specific address and value of the residence were not disclosed in the bankruptcy filings. No further information is available regarding additional real estate holdings or other significant assets.