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What Was Run-DMC Member Jam Master Jay’s Net Worth at the Time of His Death?

Run-DMC is considered one of the most influential acts in the history of hip-hop culture.
UPDATED FEB 1, 2024
Cover Image Source: Jam Master Jay | GettyImages | Photo by Vince Bucci
Cover Image Source: Jam Master Jay | GettyImages | Photo by Vince Bucci
Name Jam Master Jay
Net Worth -$1 million
Source of Income Music
Date of Birth January 21, 1965
Date of Death October 30, 2002
Gender Male
Profession Disc jockey, Musician, Rapper, Actor
Nationality United States of America

Born Jason William Mizell, Jam Master Jay was a legendary American musician and DJ. He was best known for his role in the iconic hip-hop group Run-DMC. During his time with the group, he contributed to many hit songs and albums. However, at the time of his tragic death in 2002, Jay's net worth was -$1 million

Image Source: GettyImages  | Photo by Fotos International
Jam Master Jay | GettyImages | Photo by Fotos International

Jay's primary source of income was his music career. In his early days, he played in parks and performed at bars. Soon, he began hosting small parties in the local area. He entered the DJ scene with a desire to be part of a band. In 1982, Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl McDaniels, and Jay formed the hip-hop group, Run-DMC.

The group's groundbreaking albums, including "Run-D.M.C." and "King of Rock," not only defined the genre but also contributed significantly to their financial success. On the album "Raising Hell," Jay played keyboards, bass, and live drums in addition to his turntable work.

American hip hop group Run-DMC | Photo by Vinnie Zuffante | Getty Images
American hip-hop group Run-DMC | Photo by Vinnie Zuffante | Getty Images

During the '80s, Run-DMC became pioneers in bridging the gap between hip-hop and mainstream culture. Their collaboration with Adidas, immortalized in the hit "My Adidas," made a strong cultural impact.

In 1989, Jay founded JMJ Records. The label was known for signing 50 Cent and Onyx. After Jay's death, JMJ Records closed down in 2002.

(L-R) Joseph
(L-R) Joseph "Run" Simmons, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels, and Jason "Jam Master Jay" Mizell | Photo by John Nordell | Getty Images

Jay was born on January 21, 1965, in New York City. He studied at Andrew Jackson High School in New York City's Queens. He has four children: Jason Jr., Jesse, TJ, and Tyra. 

Jam Master Jay's death

On the evening of Wednesday, October 30, 2002, the singer was shot dead in his recording studio on Merrick Boulevard in New York. Another individual in the room, 25-year-old Urieco Rincon, suffered a gunshot wound to the ankle but survived. 

In 2003, suspicions arose that the murder was connected to his defiance of a rap industry blacklist against rapper 50 Cent. A 2007 documentary explored the circumstances but did not reach a conclusive answer.

In 2020, Ronald Washington and Karl Jordan Jr. were arrested for the murder. In May 2023, a third suspect, Jay Bryant, faced charges.

Image Source: GettyImages  | Photo by Martyn Goodacre
Jam Master Jay | GettyImages | Photo by Martyn Goodacre

What was Jam Master Jay's net worth at the time of his death?

At the time of his passing, Jam Master Jay's net worth was -$1 million.

How did Jam Master Jay do before joining Run-DMC?

Before co-founding Run-DMC in 1983, Jay honed his skills in Atlantic City, New Jersey, playing in parks and bars.

What was JMJ Records famous for?

Jam Master Jay founded JMJ Records in 1989, signing acts like the Afros, Onyx, and Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. Onyx achieved Platinum success with "Bacdafucup" in 1993.

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