How much is Da Brat net worth in 2025? The hip-hop legend made history with Funkdafied, the first platinum album by a female rapper. But despite her success, legal troubles and financial setbacks have shaped her wealth journey.
From music royalties to TV hosting and business ventures, let’s dive into her finances and see how she manages her wealth today.
Da Brat Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Shawntae Harris |
| Popular Name | Da Brat |
| Birth Date | April 14, 1974 |
| Age | 50 years (as of 02/27/2025) |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Kenwood Academy, Chicago, and Academy of Scholastic Achievement |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Jesseca Dupart |
| Children | 1 (son, born July 2023) |
| Dating | Previously private, married to Jesseca Dupart |
| Siblings | LisaRaye McCoy |
| Parents | David Ray McCoy, Nadine Brewer |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $100,000 |
| Source of Wealth | Music career, TV shows, acting, endorsements, appearances |
What is the Net Worth of Da Brat in 2025?
As of 2025, Da Brat net worth is estimated to be around $100,000, following financial challenges, including bankruptcy and legal settlements. Unlike rappers such as Missy Elliott and Nicki Minaj, who have built multimillion-dollar fortunes, Da Brat’s financial journey has been shaped by debts and lawsuits.
Despite setbacks, she still earns from music royalties, TV hosting, and business partnerships.
Related People & Companies
- Jesseca Dupart
- Jermaine Dupri
- Mariah Carey
- LisaRaye McCoy
- Kris Kross
- Sony Music
- BET Awards
- Dish Nation
- Rickey Smiley Morning Show
- So So Def Recordings
For more financial insights on industry moguls, check out this list of successful hip-hop entrepreneurs.
Da Brat Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Did She Build Her Wealth Over the Years?
Da Brat’s journey to financial success started in 1992 when she won a local rap contest sponsored by Yo! MTV Raps. This victory connected her with Kris Kross, who introduced her to Jermaine Dupri, leading to a record deal with So So Def Recordings.
In 1994, she made history with her debut album, Funkdafied, which became the first platinum-certified album by a female rapper. This success brought in substantial revenue from record sales, concerts, and endorsements. The album’s lead single, Funkdafied, topped the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart and peaked at #6 on the Billboard Hot 100, further solidifying her presence in the rap industry.
Over the years, she released additional albums, including:
- Anuthatantrum (1996) – Featuring Ghetto Love with T-Boz
- Unrestricted (2000) – Peaked at #5 on the Billboard 200
- Limelite, Luv & Niteclubz (2003) – Her final studio album
In addition to her solo career, she collaborated with top artists such as Mariah Carey, Missy Elliott, Lil’ Kim, and Ludacris. She also appeared on hit songs like:
- Not Tonight (Remix) – With Lil’ Kim, Missy Elliott, Angie Martinez, and Lisa Lopes
- Loverboy (Remix) – With Mariah Carey and Ludacris
- I Think They Like Me (Remix) – With Jermaine Dupri and Bow Wow
These collaborations played a major role in boosting her earnings. However, the lack of frequent album releases meant she had to explore other revenue streams beyond music.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Da Brat’s income sources have evolved over time. While her music career was the foundation of her wealth, she later diversified into television, business, and endorsements.
Music Royalties & Collaborations
Even though she has not released an album since 2003, Da Brat continues to earn royalties from her classic hits and collaborations. Songs like Funkdafied, Not Tonight (Remix), and I Think They Like Me still generate passive income through streaming platforms and licensing deals.
Television & Radio Hosting
In 2015, Da Brat pivoted to television and radio, securing a long-term position as a co-host on Dish Nation and the Rickey Smiley Morning Show. These roles have provided consistent income and increased her public visibility, making her a familiar face in entertainment media.
Business Ventures & Partnerships
She has also expanded into entrepreneurship, partnering with Jesseca Dupart, CEO of Kaleidoscope Hair Products. Together, they have launched beauty and lifestyle ventures, leveraging their brands to attract sponsorship deals and endorsement opportunities.
Touring & Guest Performances
While she no longer actively tours, Da Brat still makes guest appearances at concerts and festivals. She has previously joined Mariah Carey on tour, performing her verses on songs like Honey and Heartbreaker (Remix). These performances continue to be a source of income, though not as lucrative as in her prime years.
How Have Legal and Financial Issues Affected Her Finances?
Despite her initial success, legal troubles and financial mismanagement have significantly impacted Da Brat net worth.
The $6.4 Million Lawsuit Judgment
In 2007, Da Brat was involved in a violent altercation at an Atlanta nightclub, where she attacked a waitress with a rum bottle. She was later sentenced to three years in prison, along with seven years of probation and 200 hours of community service.
The victim later sued Da Brat in civil court, and in 2014, she was ordered to pay $6.4 million in damages. By 2018, the debt had grown to $8 million due to interest. Reports indicate that she has not fully paid the amount, leading to further financial strain.
Bankruptcy Filing
In August 2018, Da Brat filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, listing:
- $108,700 in assets
- $7.8 million in debts
Her liabilities included:
- $6.4 million lawsuit judgment
- $1.25 million owed to Sony Music
- $12,000 in car loans
- IRS tax debts
At the time, she reported an annual income of $75,000, which was not enough to cover her legal and financial obligations.
What Assets and Investments Does She Own?
Despite her financial struggles, Da Brat still owns a few valuable assets.
Vehicles
She has been reported to own:
- 1999 Mercedes 238i (Estimated value: $5,000)
- 2014 BMW 328i (Estimated value: $15,000)
- Jeep Wrangler (Estimated value: $23,000)
While these vehicles are not luxury cars by celebrity standards, they still represent some level of financial stability.
Business Investments
One of her biggest recent financial moves was partnering with Jesseca Dupart in beauty and branding ventures. Given Dupart’s success with Kaleidoscope Hair Products, this partnership may provide long-term financial security for Da Brat.
How Does She Manage Her Finances Today?
Since her bankruptcy filing, Da Brat has made significant changes to rebuild her financial stability.
Stable Income Sources
She continues to earn from:
- Dish Nation – A steady paycheck from television hosting
- Rickey Smiley Morning Show – A long-term radio contract
- Music Royalties – Ongoing revenue from streaming and licensing
- Business Ventures – Collaborations with Jesseca Dupart
Reduced Legal Burdens
While she still owes a significant portion of the $6.4 million lawsuit judgment, there have been efforts to restructure her debt and negotiate payment plans.
Smarter Financial Choices
Unlike in her early career, Da Brat has become more financially cautious, avoiding risky investments and focusing on consistent income streams.
Conclusion
Da Brat’s financial journey has seen highs and lows. Despite legal troubles and bankruptcy, she remains active in entertainment. Want to stay updated on celebrity finances? Explore more on AndoMoney. Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
