Tekashi69 Net Worth
Tekashi69, born Daniel Hernandez, is one of the most controversial and prominent figures in the world of rap and social media. His rise to fame was rapid, marked by his distinctive rainbow-colored hair, tattoos, and confrontational personality. But aside from his music career, Tekashi69’s financial journey has intrigued many. This article delves into Tekashi69’s net worth, examining his sources of income, controversies, and personal life.
Early Life and Background
Daniel Hernandez was born on May 8, 1996, in Bushwick, Brooklyn, New York. Raised in a tough neighborhood, he faced financial hardships and struggled with the challenges of growing up in a rough environment. Hernandez’s early life was marked by personal loss, including the tragic murder of his father when he was just 13. These events shaped his rebellious nature and influenced his path toward fame.
Tekashi69’s choice of the stage name is a nod to his gang affiliation, which played a significant role in his persona. His tattoos and the number 69 are emblematic of his association with the Nine Trey Gangsters, a notorious street gang. Though his musical journey initially began in the underground rap scene, Tekashi69 quickly gained attention for his unique style and vocal delivery.
The Rise to Fame: Social Media and Music
Tekashi69’s breakthrough moment came when he started releasing music on platforms like SoundCloud. His first single, “Gummo,” was released in 2017 and became a viral hit. The aggressive style of his music, combined with his distinctive look and catchy beats, propelled him into the mainstream. The success of “Gummo” was followed by several other hits, including “Kooda,” “Keke,” and “Billy.”
What set Tekashi69 apart from other rappers at the time was his savvy use of social media. He became a regular fixture on Instagram, posting provocative and sometimes outrageous content. His controversial statements and interactions with other celebrities generated media buzz, which only fueled his growing popularity.
Major Collaborations and Musical Success
As his fame continued to rise, Tekashi69 started collaborating with big names in the rap industry. His 2018 track “FEFE,” featuring Nicki Minaj and Murda Beatz, became one of his biggest commercial successes. The song reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and cemented his place as a prominent figure in the rap scene.
Despite his musical success, Tekashi69’s career has been marred by several public feuds and controversies. His beefs with other artists, including Chief Keef and Trippie Redd, generated significant attention and often led to heated exchanges on social media. While these disputes helped keep him in the limelight, they also contributed to his reputation as a polarizing figure in the entertainment industry.
Legal Troubles and Their Impact on Net Worth
One of the most significant events in Tekashi69’s life was his legal troubles, which had a profound impact on his career and financial standing. In 2018, he was arrested on charges related to racketeering, firearm possession, and conspiracy to commit murder. The rapper was implicated in a series of crimes tied to his involvement with the Nine Trey Gangsters.
Tekashi69’s legal battles culminated in a plea deal, where he cooperated with authorities, testifying against several members of the Nine Trey Gangsters in exchange for a reduced sentence. His decision to cooperate with the government was controversial and led to widespread criticism from fans and the hip-hop community. Despite the backlash, his cooperation ultimately resulted in a shorter prison sentence, and he was released from federal custody in April 2020.
However, the legal troubles didn’t seem to slow down Tekashi69’s career for long. Upon his release, he made headlines with the release of his song “Gooba,” which garnered millions of views on YouTube within hours. Despite the controversies surrounding his cooperation with law enforcement, Tekashi69’s ability to maintain a strong presence in the industry was evident.
Tekashi69’s Business Ventures and Entrepreneurial Endeavors
In addition to his music career, Tekashi69 has also ventured into various business opportunities. His social media influence has played a significant role in securing brand deals and endorsements. He has worked with companies in industries ranging from fashion to tech, leveraging his massive following to promote products and services.
Tekashi69 has also made investments in the world of merchandise. His own clothing line, which features his signature 69 logo and distinctive designs, has been a source of additional income. While his reputation has limited his opportunities in certain areas, his ability to capitalize on his online persona has allowed him to generate significant revenue.
The Impact of Controversies on Tekashi69’s Wealth
While Tekashi69’s controversies have often overshadowed his music career, they have also contributed to his wealth. Publicity is a double-edged sword, and Tekashi69’s ability to generate buzz through his actions, whether positive or negative, has kept him relevant in the media. His criminal charges, social media rants, and feuds with other celebrities may have alienated some fans, but they also keep him in the spotlight, which directly impacts his earning potential.
Many artists shy away from controversy, but Tekashi69 has embraced it. His polarizing nature means that people continue to talk about him, driving up engagement on his social media accounts and increasing the number of views on his music videos. Whether loved or hated, Tekashi69 knows how to maintain his relevance and use controversy to his advantage.
Tekashi69’s Net Worth: How Much Does He Really Have?
As of 2025, Tekashi69’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. His wealth has been accumulated through a combination of music sales, live performances, brand deals, and his entrepreneurial ventures. Despite the ups and downs in his career, Tekashi69 has managed to maintain a substantial income, largely due to his savvy social media presence and his ability to stay in the public eye.
His earnings from streaming platforms like Spotify and YouTube, along with the sales of his music and merchandise, have helped him maintain financial success. Additionally, his ability to generate millions of views on his music videos and social media posts has significantly boosted his income.
Tekashi69’s Personal Life: Relationships and Family
Beyond the headlines and controversies, Tekashi69’s personal life is just as interesting. He is the father of two children, a daughter and a son, whom he shares with his ex-girlfriend, Sara Molina. Tekashi69 has often posted about his children on social media, and despite his tumultuous public persona, he has expressed deep love for his family.
His relationship with Sara Molina has been rocky, with the couple breaking up following his legal troubles. Molina has been vocal about the challenges of being in a relationship with Tekashi69, including the strain caused by his legal issues and public behavior. Despite their breakup, Tekashi69 remains involved in his children’s lives.
In addition to his family, Tekashi69 has had several other high-profile relationships. His romantic life, like much of his public persona, has been the subject of media attention. His dating history has included short-term relationships with women who are often linked to his public image.
Conclusion: The Future of Tekashi69’s Career and Finances
Tekashi69’s career has been marked by extreme highs and lows, but his ability to bounce back after setbacks speaks to his resilience and business acumen. Despite the controversies, he continues to remain a relevant figure in the entertainment industry, capitalizing on his social media presence and diverse income streams.
While it’s unclear what the future holds for Tekashi69, one thing is certain: his financial success is tied to his ability to stir controversy, create viral moments, and maintain a strong presence in the public eye. Whether or not his fame will endure in the long term, Tekashi69’s ability to remain financially successful through his music and ventures has already solidified his place in pop culture history.