What Is Plies’ Net Worth?
As of 2025, Plies, the American rapper, has accumulated a net worth of approximately $6 million. This valuation is primarily derived from his successful music career, including album sales, single releases, touring, and various collaborations. While precise figures for each revenue stream are not publicly detailed, we can infer the contributions based on available sales data and industry standards.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Algernod Lanier Washington, known professionally as Plies, was born on July 1, 1976, in Fort Myers, Florida. During his time at Fort Myers Senior High School, Plies excelled both academically and athletically. He played defensive back and receiver for the school’s football team, showcasing his athletic capabilities. He was named the valedictorian and best-dressed student of his graduating class.
Plies further pursued his football career at Miami University from 1995 to 1997, playing wide receiver. He then transferred to the University of Central Florida but decided to leave before completing the academic year. In the late 1990s, Plies partnered with his stepbrother, Big Gates, to establish an independent record label, Big Gates Records. Together, they recorded a single and promoted it extensively, eventually leading Plies to sign with Slip-N-Slide-Records in Miami.
Musical Career and Album Sales
Plies officially began his commercial music career with the release of his debut album, “The Real Testament,” in August 2007. The album’s lead single, “Shawty,” featuring T-Pain, reached the top spot on the Billboard Hot Rap Tracks chart and peaked at number 9 on the Hot 100. This initial success significantly boosted Plies’ Net Worth. Within six months of its release, “The Real Testament” achieved RIAA gold certification, indicating sales of over 500,000 copies. Though the exact sales revenue is not public, gold certification typically generates substantial income for the artist and label.
His second album, “Definition of Real,” came out in June 2008, just ten months after his first. The main single, “Bust It Baby Pt. 2,” featuring Ne-Yo, reached number 2 on the Hot Rap Tracks and number 7 on the Hot 100. The album peaked at number 2 on the Billboard 200, selling over 200,000 copies in its first week. Four months after its release, the album was certified gold. Based on industry standards, the album’s success contributed significantly to Plies’ earnings, likely adding hundreds of thousands of dollars to his Net Worth.
In December 2008, Plies released his third album, “Da REAList,” which sold over 110,000 copies in its first week. Featuring collaborations with Ashanti and Chris J, the album maintained Plies’ momentum in the rap scene. During this period, Plies also made guest appearances on Ludacris’ song “Nasty Girl” and DJ Khaled’s single “Out Here Grindin’,” further increasing his exposure and income.
Plies’ fourth album, “Goon Affiliated,” was released on June 8, 2010. The album’s first two singles featured Bei Maejor. Debuting at number 5 on the Billboard 200, “Goon Affiliated” continued to generate income through sales and streams, even though it received mixed reviews. Plies continued to appear on other artists’ songs, including Young Jeezy’s “Lose Your Mind,” which earned a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance By A Duo Or Group in 2011. Though the nomination did not result in a win, it enhanced his reputation and contributed to future earning potential.
In 2020, Plies released his fifth record, “The Real Testament 2,” as a sequel to his debut album. The album’s performance and sales figures have not been widely publicized, but it likely contributed to his overall Net Worth through streaming and digital downloads.
Collaborations and Guest Appearances
Plies has strategically used collaborations and guest appearances to increase his reach and revenue. His appearance on Ludacris’ “Nasty Girl” and DJ Khaled’s “Out Here Grindin’,” as well as Young Jeezy’s “Lose Your Mind,” enhanced his visibility. While the specific financial arrangements for these collaborations are not public, guest appearances generally come with performance fees and royalties that can significantly boost an artist’s income.
Legal Issues
On July 2, 2006, Plies was charged with illegal possession of a concealed weapon following a nightclub shooting in Florida. The incident led to charges against members of his entourage for attempted murder. The altercation reportedly started after Plies’ microphone was cut off during his performance, leading to a dispute that escalated into gunfire. In 2017, Plies was arrested in Wesley Chapel, Florida, for driving under the influence. He refused a roadside breathalyzer test and was taken into custody. Legal issues can significantly impact an artist’s finances through legal fees, fines, and potential reputational damage, which can affect future earnings. The specific financial impact of these incidents on Plies’ Net Worth is not detailed, but they represent potential financial setbacks.
Earnings From Performances and Touring
Beyond album sales, live performances and touring represent a significant revenue stream for Plies. While exact figures for his concert earnings are not publicly available, rappers of his stature can command substantial fees for live shows. Depending on the venue size, location, and demand, Plies could earn anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000 or more per performance. Over the course of his career, these earnings would have substantially contributed to his $6 million Net Worth.
Real Estate and Assets
Information regarding Plies’ real estate holdings is limited, but it is typical for successful musicians to invest in property. Without specific addresses or names, it is difficult to assess the precise value of his real estate assets. However, properties in Florida, where Plies resides, can range from modest homes to luxury estates. Depending on the scale of his investments, real estate could represent a significant portion of his overall Net Worth.
Luxury Assets
Details about Plies’ ownership of luxury assets, such as private jets or high-end vehicles, are not widely publicized. Artists with a Net Worth of $6 million may own luxury cars or invest in private air travel for convenience and efficiency. However, without concrete information, it is speculative to include these assets in a detailed breakdown of his Net Worth.
Net Worth Milestones
While specific year-by-year income figures are not available, Plies’ Net Worth has likely grown incrementally with each successful album release and tour. Key milestones include:
- 2007: Release of “The Real Testament” and achieving gold certification.
- 2008: Release of “Definition of Real” and “Da REAList,” both contributing significantly to his earnings.
- 2011: Grammy nomination for his collaboration on Young Jeezy’s “Lose Your Mind.”
Personal Life
Plies’ personal life includes his relationship with ex-girlfriend Brandy Lacole Lyons, who gave birth to their son in October 2003. While his personal life does not directly impact his Net Worth, it provides context to his overall life and career. Information on his lifestyle habits, spending, and charitable activities are not widely available.