As of 2025, Birdman’s net worth is estimated at $150 million, and he’s currently 56 years old. Known off-stage as Bryan Christopher Brooks, Birdman is a legendary name in hip-hop—not just for his music, but for building one of the most influential record labels in history, Cash Money Records. Alongside his brother Ronald “Slim” Williams, Birdman transformed a local hustle into a music empire that launched the careers of global superstars like Lil Wayne, Drake, and Nicki Minaj.
How Did Birdman Start His Journey?
Born on February 15, 1969, in New Orleans, Birdman faced tragedy early. After the loss of his mother in 1975, he and his siblings bounced between relatives and foster care. Eventually, he reunited with his father and lived in the Magnolia Projects, where survival meant hustling. His teen years were riddled with crime—he was arrested multiple times and even served time before age 20.
But that wasn’t the end of the story—it was just the beginning.
What Sparked the Creation of Cash Money Records?
By 1991, Birdman and his brother Slim saw the rising wave of bounce music sweeping through New Orleans clubs. Sensing opportunity, they scraped together about $100,000 in startup capital, allegedly from their half-brother Terrence’s street dealings, and launched Cash Money Records. They had no formal music industry background—but what they lacked in experience, they made up for with street savvy and hustle.
Who Was Birdman’s First Big Break?
Cash Money’s first artist was a local rapper named Kilo G, whose horrorcore album The Sleepwalker dropped in 1992. But the label truly took off when Birdman signed a 12-year-old prodigy named Dwayne Carter, better known today as Lil Wayne. Alongside Turk, Juvenile, and B.G., the group formed Hot Boys, which catapulted Cash Money into the Southern rap spotlight.
How Did Birdman Land a Historic Deal with Universal?
In 1998, Universal Music Group offered Cash Money a $30 million deal, including $3 million upfront and $1.5 million per album. But Birdman made history by retaining 100% ownership of the label’s masters—a move nearly unheard of in the music business. That one clause has kept millions flowing into his pockets every year since.
Did Birdman Have a Rap Career Too?
Absolutely. While running the label, Birdman also stepped into the booth. With DJ Mannie Fresh, he formed Big Tymers, dropping How Ya Luv That? in 1998 and following it up with I Got That Work and Hood Rich. His solo career peaked in the early 2000s with albums like Birdman, Fast Money, and 5 * Stunna. In 2006, he dropped a joint project with Lil Wayne called Like Father, Like Son, which hit #3 on the Billboard 200.
What Are Birdman’s Other Business Ventures?
Birdman isn’t just about beats and bars. In 2010, he and his brother launched Bronald Oil, combining their names (Bryan and Ronald). The goal? To tap into U.S. oil resources. While it’s unclear whether Bronald ever struck oil, it’s one more example of Birdman’s relentless ambition to expand his empire beyond music.
What Legal Battles Has Birdman Faced?
Birdman’s journey hasn’t been smooth. From marijuana possession charges in 2007 to lawsuits over unpaid royalties, he’s had his fair share of courtroom drama. The most notable case came in 2015 when Lil Wayne sued Birdman for $51 million, claiming Cash Money blocked the release of Tha Carter V and withheld payments. The fallout led to a public feud and temporary rift in their close relationship.
How Has Birdman Spent His Fortune?
Known for living large, Birdman claimed to buy 100 new cars every six months—giving away the old ones to friends and family. He’s worn millions in jewelry, including a $500,000 diamond grill and 15-carat black diamond rings.
He also owned an extravagant 20,000-square-foot mansion on Palm Island in Miami, which he bought in 2012 for $14.5 million. After facing foreclosure in 2018, he eventually sold it at a loss for $10.9 million in 2019.
Is Birdman Still Active in 2025?
Birdman remains an active figure in the hip-hop scene, though more behind the scenes than on the mic. He’s refocused on business and legacy, and in 2023, he even announced his intent to legally change his name back to Brooks, honoring his mother’s surname. Despite the ups and downs, Birdman continues to hold his spot as one of the most influential figures in modern hip-hop.
