The world of hip hop is a force to be reckoned with having been a monster money maker and source of major social change for over 30 years. The artists who made the industry come alive have had to fight insurmountable odds to make their place in the industry and through raw talent, business skill, courage and controversy they have spawned some of the entertainment industry’s top money makers. Here is a list of the top ten richest rappers 2013 in the world.

Net Worth $95 million. The 30 year old from new Orleans rounds out our top ten. He’s been in the business for over 20 years and has quite the fortune. His first album “Tha Block Is Hot” reached platinum status and sent him on his way to fame and fortune.

Net Worth $100 million. From South Central, Los Angeles, California is not only one of the most popular and famous rappers of all time but he along with his friends Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, is one of the most notable celebrities in the world. No stranger to controversy he made his break with the groundbreaking NWA group of gangsta rappers. His notoriety has spawned a lucrative movie career spanning drama, science fiction, comedy and romance. A real action movie star too. His music is always a top chart topper and his opinions carry much weight throughout the world.

Net Worth $110 million. From Long Beach, California comes one of the most popular rappers of all time. He’s not the richest but his name is known in every corner of the planet. Discovered by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg has been successful in every area of entertainment bar none. From television to movies to talk shows and the web, Snoop Dogg’s often controversial lifestyle, antics, and run ins with the law keep him as the most endearing of not only rappers but personalities overall.

Net worth $120 million. This Missouri born rapper has really made a name and empire for himself. Discovered by Dr. Dre, he’s branched out to all sorts of businesses including critically and box office acclaimed movies.

Net worth $110 million. Owing much to famed hip hop mogul Dr. Dre, 50 Cent is a favorite of millions. His true story of harsh street life makes him a legitimate figure amongst the gangsta rap genre. He’s branched out to movies and television to amazing reviews. From endorsing products like Vitamin water, video games, promotions, and more. His staying power is banked on his personality and business sharpness.

Net worth $125 million. Williams made his claim to fame with his music and direction and cut a deal with Universal in 1998 for $30 million. That distribution deal for his Cash Money Records with his brother Ronald launched him into super business status. He brought to the fore rappers Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne and more.

Net worth $260 million. From the dangerous streets to music mogul, Dr. Dre His savvy is in building up new talent and has produced and discovered the top talent of the past 10 years or more. From his starts with the group NWA he’s launched the careers of fellow rappers Snoop Dogg and more. Add to that 50 Cent, Eminem and pals with Justin Bieber, he’s the new Ed Sullivan of rap. He’s branched into technology with headphones of impressive quality and computers and electronics. He’s a worldwide phenomenon and household name.

Net worth $350 million give him 3rd position in the list of richest rappers 2013. The 45 year old record mogul has reached top ten for quite a while. From New Orleans he’s expanded from music into other ventures that has made him a multi millionaire. It’s that business savvy that set him apart from other musicians. He’s had parts in major motion pictures such as “Gone In 60 Seconds”, “Soccer Mom” and even developed a children’s show “Gee Gee The Giraffe”. The CEO of No Limit Entertainment he’s a bona fide business mogul and ranked in Forbes’ list of America’s 40 top paid entertainers in 1998 alone.

Net worth estimated at $460 million. Not only is he wealthy but he’s married to one of the top women in entertainment, Beyonce. Quite the shrewd businessman he’s amassed his fortune through his music, sales of his Rocawear clothing line, a $150 million 10 year deal with Live Nation and more. He’s also got shares and holdings in sports most notably the New Jersey Nets. He’s also in restaurants and more.

Net worth estimated at $500 million that makes him the richest rappers of 2013 in the world. The boss of Bad Boy records and several ventures including clothing, perfume, cosmetics and acting, he’s amassed quite a fortune with sharp business acumen and grand associations throughout the business world.