Kimberly Denise Jones, better known as Lil’ Kim, is an influential American rapper born on July 11, 1974, in New York City. She rose to fame after being discovered by Notorious B.I.G., joining his group Junior M.A.F.I.A.. Her debut album Hard Core (1996) was certified double platinum and sold over six million copies.
Lil’ Kim’s hit singles include “No Time” and “Lady Marmalade,” earning her a Grammy. Known as the “Queen of Rap,” she has sold over 15 million albums and is recognized for her bold fashion and impact on female empowerment.
Table of Contents
Lil Kim Net Worth
Lil’ Kim has a net worth of $500,000. In June 2018, she filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in New Jersey, following the foreclosure of her 6,000-square-foot mansion valued at $3 million. She owed $1.5 million in back taxes and $667,000 in late mortgage payments, totaling $4 million in debt.
Kim listed $2.5 million in assets, including a 2005 Bentley, 2000 Mercedes, and jewelry. In 2016, she earned $823,000, and in 2017, $398,000, with average monthly earnings of $18,000.
Early life
Lil’ Kim, born in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York, is the second child of Linwood Jones, a former U.S. Marine, and has an older brother, Christopher. After her parents separated when she was nine, she was raised by her father, with whom she had a troubled relationship.
At 14, she left home, lived on the streets, and dropped out of school. She later attended Sarah J. Hale Vocational High School before transferring to Brooklyn College Academy to finish high school. She met Notorious B.I.G. during her teenage years.
Career
Lil’ Kim’s debut album, “Hard Core” (1996), was certified double platinum by the RIAA and sold over 6 million copies worldwide. It reached #3 on the U.S. R&B chart and #11 on the Billboard 200. Her follow-up albums, “The Notorious K.I.M.” (2000) and “La Bella Mafia” (2003), also went platinum.
“The Naked Truth” (2005) was released while she was in prison, reaching #3 on the U.S. R&B chart. Her fifth album, “9”, came out in 2019. She also featured on “Lady Marmalade” (2001).
Personal Life
Lil’ Kim had an on-again, off-again relationship with Notorious B.I.G. until his death in 1997. During the recording of her debut album, she became pregnant with his child but chose to terminate the pregnancy, later revealing in 1999 that their relationship wasn’t suitable for raising a child.
In 2017, she admitted the relationship was “very violent.” She dated Damion “World” Hardy (2002-2003), Scott Storch (2004), and briefly Ray J in 2007. In February 2014, she announced her pregnancy and gave birth to daughter Royal Reign in June.
How much does Lil Kim charge to perform?
An example fee to book Lil Kim is in the starting range of $40,000-$74,999. However, any recent popularity change would cause a price fluctuation well beyond this example.
Conclusion
Lil Kim’s journey in the music industry illustrates her resilience and enduring influence, despite financial and personal challenges.
FAQs about Lil Kim Net Worth
- What is Lil Kim’s current net worth?
- Around $500 thousand.
- How did Lil Kim start her career?
- She began with the group Junior M.A.F.I.A., mentored by Notorious B.I.G.
- What are some of Lil Kim’s notable achievements?
- Multi-platinum albums, Grammy awards, and iconic singles like “Lady Marmalade.”
- Has Lil Kim faced financial difficulties?
- Yes, including a bankruptcy filing in 2018.
- What is Lil Kim’s legacy in hip-hop?
- She is celebrated for breaking gender barriers and influencing a generation of female artists.
