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What are the Top rap incomes to establish and justify higher booking fees?

  • Writer: BLACK ONYX TV
    BLACK ONYX TV
  • Oct 31
  • 14 min read

The top rap incomes and booking fees in 2025 are among the highest in the music industry, driven by both legacy acts and current chart-topping superstars.

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These high incomes serve as clear justification for premium booking fees, reflecting market demand, artist status, and global reach.


### Leading Rap Artist Booking Fees


- Kanye West regularly commands up to $8 million per show, according to direct statements and recent reports[4].

- Eminem's booking fee typically ranges from $1.5 million to $2 million per event, having reportedly turned down offers as high as $8 million for select performances[2][4].

- Cardi B has documented million-dollar single show fees, such as being paid $1 million for a 35-minute set[4].


### Current Top Earners and Their Influence


- Travis Scott, Drake, Kendrick Lamar, and Eminem remain consistently at the top of industry power rankings, boosting their event fees and incomes[5][9].

- Rappers like Post Malone and Travis Scott leverage touring spectacle and global brand extensions (fashion, tech, etc.), which further justifies their premium rates[7].

- Newer top names in the 2025 rankings include artists such as Doja Cat, Lil Baby, Playboi Carti, and Central Cee, who are frequently cited among the top 10 rap talents, with their demand translating directly into six-to-seven-figure appearance fees[3][5][9].


### How These Incomes Establish Value


- High daily streaming numbers (tens of millions per artist on platforms like Spotify and YouTube)[7].

- Multiple chart-topping hits, robust international fanbases, and consistent live show sellouts.

- Awards, brand endorsements, and influence on popular culture.

- Rarity and exclusivity: some of the highest earners perform sparingly, driving up demand and price.


### Industry Context


- The ability to charge higher booking fees is both a function of public demand and an established track record of drawing large audiences, both online and in physical venues[2][4].

- As reference rates, mid-level rappers may command $100,000–$200,000 per show, while top-tier artists regularly fetch above $1 million, and icons like Kanye West set new industry benchmarks[4].


These market dynamics substantiate and justify the high booking fees seen today for the most successful and influential rap artists[2][4][7].


What marketing, advertising, promotion plan does an artist use to climb to such levels starting with good music and $1000?


An artist starting with good music and just $1000 in 2025 can climb to higher income and booking fee levels by using a strategic, budget-conscious marketing plan focused on direct fan engagement and smart digital use.


### Key Marketing Strategies for $1000 Budget

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- **Build a Social Media Presence:** Prioritize TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and X (Twitter) with low-cost, authentic content such as behind-the-scenes videos, live sessions, and fan interaction. This creates organic buzz and engagement without big spend[2][5].

- **DIY Music and Video Production:** Use affordable tools like smartphones for music video shooting and self-release a mixtape or singles to rapidly build an authentic fanbase. Speed and genuine connection matter more than high budget polish[1].

- **Leverage Streaming Platforms:** Optimize artist profiles on Spotify, Apple Music, etc., release music consistently to trigger favorable algorithms, and pitch to playlist curators to get featured, maximizing streaming exposure with minimal cost[2][3].

- **Network and Collaborate:** Connect with other emerging artists, influencers, and micro-influencers for cross-promotion and exposure to their audiences, which can be more cost-effective than large-scale ads[8].

- **Engage with Fans Directly:** Respond to comments, share fan content, and create a community vibe on social media to convert casual listeners into loyal followers[5].

- **Create a Cohesive Brand:** Develop a strong and consistent artist identity (visual, sound, story) that makes the artist memorable and builds deeper fan connections[6][5].

- **Strategic Use of Paid Ads:** If spending on advertising, focus on influencer campaigns first over direct ads, as influencers provide more qualified and engaging exposure to target fans[8].


### Promotion Timeline Example


- Start building an online presence before music release.

- Drop singles regularly (every 6-8 weeks) to maintain visibility.

- Use short-form video content to tease releases and share stories.

- Pitch to playlist curators and music blogs within the digital influencer network.

- Host live or listening events on platforms like Twitch or Instagram Live.


This plan maximizes the impact of $1000 by harnessing digital platforms, direct fan contact, and creative content production, building momentum from the ground up with a focus on authenticity and consistency[1][2][5][8].


Where to spend $1,000 for max music promotion impact


The best way to spend $1,000 for maximum impact on music promotion in 2025 is to focus on targeted digital advertising, quality content creation, and getting your music in front of receptive listeners through playlists and strategic PR placements.


### Top Spending Recommendations

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- **Meta (Facebook/Instagram) Ads:** Around $600–$850 should be used for Facebook and Instagram ads that target your ideal audience, driving streams and follows to your Spotify and other platforms[2][4][3]. This yields broad awareness, new listeners, and increases streams if handled with conversion-optimized campaigns.

- **Playlist Campaigns:** Allocate $200–$500 for playlist placement services with legitimate curators, especially for Spotify. This will expose your music to niche audiences who already enjoy your genre and can dramatically increase your organic reach and streaming volume[3].

- **YouTube Ads:** If you have a music video, invest $100–$200 in targeted YouTube ad campaigns to boost video views and subscriber numbers, focusing on key markets rather than a global scattershot approach for best results[5].

- **Content Creation:** Spend $100–$300 on high-quality video production (for TikTok, Reels, YouTube Shorts) and strong visuals for your cover art. These resources fuel your ad campaigns and promote sharing across platforms[3].

- **PR and Blogs:** Use $50–$100 to secure placements in indie blogs, online magazines, or utilize low-cost PR methods which can build your credibility and SEO presence[3].

- **Micro-influencers:** Allocate $100 to partner with a few micro-influencers for collaborative content, reviews, or shout-outs[1].


### Sample $1,000 Allocation


| Channel | Amount | Impact

| Meta Ads (FB/IG) | $600–$850 | Streams, follows, and audience awareness[2][3][4] |

| Playlist Promotion | $200–$500 | Targeted listeners and organic growth[3] |

| YouTube Ads | $100–$200 | Video views, channel growth[5] |

| Content Creation | $100–$300 | Professional and shareable visuals[3] |

| PR/Blogs/Influencers | $50–$100 | Credibility, editorial support[3][1] |


Prioritize digital advertising and playlists for the fastest, highest-impact results, followed by content investment and selective press. Avoid expensive publicists or radio until your organic metrics are strong[2][3][7].



Build a 6-month marketing plan starting with $1,000


A 6-month marketing plan starting with $1,000 should focus on high-impact, low-cost channels and strategies that build momentum and grow your audience over time. Here’s a practical, month-by-month roadmap based on proven tactics for small budgets.


### Month 1: Foundation & Audience Research

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- Set clear goals (followers, streams, show bookings) and target audience persona[7].

- Set up essential social media (IG, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter) and streaming profiles.

- Invest $100 in logo/artwork and website setup using DIY or affordable freelancers[1].

- Begin following and engaging with similar artists and their fanbases organically[4].


### Month 2: Content Creation & Release Rollout


- Allocate $100–$150 for quality video and photo content using a smartphone.

- Share behind-the-scenes, freestyles, and daily music lifestreams on all platforms (TikTok and Instagram prioritized)[2].

- Release your first single and announce with a teaser video.

- Engage daily with comments, DMs, and similar artist hashtags for organic reach[2].


### Month 3: Digital Networking & Email List


- Spend $50–$100 on micro-influencer posts (collaborative content, not paid shoutouts).

- Run a small social giveaway (merch, song download) to encourage followers to join your email list.

- Start using free email marketing tools to nurture fans (monthly newsletter/update)[1].

- Reach out to playlist curators, music blogs, and local press for coverage[6].


### Month 4: Targeted Paid Promotion


- Use $100–$150 for a targeted ad: Instagram or TikTok post/boost focused on your top song/video[3].

- Pitch yourself for digital shows, online festivals, and local gigs to gain exposure.

- Drop a second single or remix, leveraging new contacts for playlist adds.


### Month 5: Collaborations & Retargeting


- Allocate $100–$150 for a collaboration (another artist, visual creator, or local brand) to cross-promote new songs or videos.

- Reinvest in a retargeting ad to fans who've engaged but haven't followed or streamed yet[3].

- Feature fans on your social pages or invite them to participate in remixes, challenges, or content[9].


### Month 6: Scale Successes & PR Push


- Analyze your stats: double down on the platforms and content types that performed best.

- Spend $100–$200 for a digital PR push (blog placements, small press releases, or a paid digital magazine feature)[9].

- Celebrate milestones publicly and run a final contest or event for engaged fans.

- Initiate conversations with local venues, booking agents, or promoters, showcasing your results and momentum[4].


***


#### Budget Allocation (Sample Breakdown)


| Channel/Activity | Estimated Total |

|---------------------------------|-----------------------|

| Art/Logo/Website | $100 |

| Video/Content Production | $150 |

| Micro-Influencers/Collabs | $250 |

| Social/Spotify Paid Ads | $250 |

| Email List Giveaways/Tools | $50 |

| PR Press/Blog Submissions | $100 |

| Reserve/Emergency/Extra Push | $100 |

| **Total** | **$1,000** |


***


Each step is designed to maximize fan building, reach, and credibility within a tight budget, setting the stage for larger investments as you grow[1][2][3][4][6][9].


Got my music in a physical fanbook with pics and qr codes to get streams. give me a solid monetizing strategy to sell these with the promo


To monetize your physical fanbook containing music, photos, and QR codes for streaming, combine direct sales with exclusive fan experiences and digital marketing. This approach maximizes both revenue and promotional impact while deepening fan relationships[2][1].


### 1. Direct Sales Bundles

- Sell the fanbooks at shows, pop-ups, and online (Bandcamp, Shopify, or your artist website). Bundle them with autographed versions, limited merch like lyric postcards or art prints, or exclusive access (e.g., “listening party wristbands”)[1][2].

- Offer “fan club edition” bundles: Signed fanbook, exclusive QR music, and a personalized thank-you note. Scarcity and personalization make these products highly desirable and encourage superfans to buy[2].


### 2. Exclusive Digital Perks via QR Codes

- Link QR codes to private content (unreleased demos, behind-the-scenes videos, personal shoutouts, or early access to new drops), creating an “experience” beyond just selling music[4][2].

- Use QR codes for contests: Fanbook buyers can access special contests or giveaways for VIP concert tickets or merch, boosting both streams and sales[2].


### 3. Social Media and Influencer Push

- Collaborate with micro-influencers or superfans on TikTok/Instagram to showcase the fanbook and drive FOMO through limited drops and unboxing videos[4].

- Run paid ads ($100–$300) targeting fans of similar artists with a focus on your fanbook message and QR music access[11].


### 4. Email List and Membership Upsell

- Collect emails with each sale and offer tiered memberships (Patreon, Fanbase) for deeper engagement: more exclusive music, private streams, advance fanbooks[4].


### 5. Event-Based Sales

- Host hybrid or live events (small gigs, virtual concerts) where fanbooks double as ticket stubs, backstage passes, or unlock digital experiences for attendees[1][4].


This approach blends physical merch, exclusive digital perks, and targeted promotion to maximize sales and streams, fostering true fan loyalty[1][2][4][11].


Marketing timeline and ad budget for the fanbook launch


Direct answer first: a clear, phased marketing timeline with a realistic ad budget can maximize a fanbook launch. Below is a practical 6-month plan that aligns with a $1,000 budget and focuses on high-ROI activities, built around the fanbook, QR codes, and streaming promotions.


## 6-month marketing timeline

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- Month 1 — Prep and foundations

- Finalize product offers: base fanbook, signed edition, and VIP bundles (early access, meet-and-greet, or exclusive content via QR).

- Create a dedicated landing page or shop section (Bandcamp/Shopify/Stripe checkout) and set up an email list opt-in tied to the fanbook launch.

- Produce a launch assets kit: cover design, unboxing video concept, and a short teaser trailer.


- Month 2 — Content and buzz creation

- Produce high-quality unboxing content and behind-the-scenes footage showing the fanbook’s value.

- Start drip content on social channels: short videos, photo carousels, and QR code reveals that lead to stream previews.

- Initiate pre-orders with limited-time bonuses (exclusive tracks or early access codes).


- Month 3 — Early promotion and partnerships

- Reach out to micro-influencers and superfans for unboxing content and preview reviews.

- Run a small targeted ad test (ads focused on fans of similar artists and genres) with a tight budget.

- Launch an email nurture sequence: welcome, behind-the-scenes, first listening party invite.


- Month 4 — Broad awareness and conversions

- Expand paid promotions to direct sales and streaming funnels (ads driving to product page and to streaming links via QR codes).

- Host a virtual listening party and offer limited-edition bundles during the event.

- Collaborate with local venues or pop-ups for on-site fanbook sales and QR-only drops.


- Month 5 — Scale with value adds

- Release a second wave of content tied to the fanbook (remixes, acoustic versions) that unlocks via QR codes.

- Launch a referral incentive: existing buyers share a link to earn exclusive merch or a digital bonus.

- Use a portion of ad spend on retargeting: visitors who viewed the fanbook but didn’t purchase.


- Month 6 — PR push and post-launch retention

- Compile and share performance data (units sold, streams generated, email signups).

- Pursue micro-press and influencer features with a concise press kit highlighting fan engagement and sales milestones.

- Plan ongoing fan engagement: monthly exclusive drops, future QR content, and a fan club tier to sustain momentum.


## Budget allocation (example, $1,000)


- Product development and assets: $150

- Design, mockups, photography, unboxing video production

- Landing page/shop setup: $50–$100

- Basic hosting and payment integration

- Content creation (video/photo): $200–$300

- Gear, editing, props, teaser videos

- Micro-influencers and collaborations: $100–$150

- Shared posts, unbox videos, reviews

- Targeted ads and promotions: $250–$350

- Social ads driving to pre-order page and QR-based streaming

- Email marketing and automation: $0–$50

- Free tiers or existing tools

- PR and miscellaneous: $0–$50

- Press kit distribution, small press outreach

- Contingency: $0–$50


Total: around $1,000


## Tactics by channel


- Social media

- Use unboxing videos, before/after content, and FAQ mini-videos to spark curiosity.

- Post consistently; leverage QR codes in all promo materials to drive streams.

- Email marketing

- Capture emails with the fanbook purchase and deliver exclusive content to nurture fans for future releases.

- Paid promotions

- Prioritize highly targeted ads with clear calls to action (buy fanbook, stream via QR, join fan club).

- Use retargeting to reach people who engaged but did not buy.

- Partnerships

- Engage micro-influencers and superfans for authentic content.

- Explore local events and pop-ups to sell physical copies and collect feedback.


## How to measure success


- Unit sales and revenue from fanbooks

- Number of QR code scans and subsequent streams

- Email list growth and open/click-through rates

- Social engagement rate and follower growth

- Conversion rate from paid ads to purchases


If you’d like, share your fanbook price points, expected bundles, and target audience (genre, demographics, geographies). A refined budget and timeline can be tailored to maximize your specific setup and desired milestones.


How to maximize profit efforts and time utilizing the above suggestions and a mobile club for performance with BMi license and song registration?


To maximize profit and time while utilizing the fanbook merchandise alongside a mobile club performance setup with BMI license and song registration, focus on integrated merchandising, live engagement, and efficient operational strategies.


### Key Profit Maximizing Strategies

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- **Diverse Product Bundles:** Offer exclusive bundles combining the fanbook with merchandise (e.g., signed copies, apparel, collectibles) available at your mobile club shows and online. Bundles increase average sale value and cater to different fan budgets[1][3][5].


- **Leverage Live Performances:** Use your mobile club as a unique venue for exclusive fanbook launches and performances, where fans are primed to purchase. Live settings boost impulse buys and create memorable experiences tied to merch[1][8].


- **Activate BMI and Song Registration for Royalties:** Ensure all performed and digitally consumed songs are properly registered for BMI collection, capturing revenue beyond merchandise sales. Registered works feeding into performing rights royalties create a passive income layer parallel to your merch[8].


- **Streamlined Sales Systems:** Use card readers (Square/Stripe) at gigs and pop-ups to avoid lost sales, and maintain tight inventory control to avoid overstock or shortage[3][2].


- **Promote Interactive QR Content:** Drive streams from QR codes in the fanbook towards Spotify and other platforms, spurring royalty accumulation and strengthening fan engagement[1][8].


- **Micro-Influencer Collaborations:** Partner with influencers or superfans to amplify your fanbook visibility and mobile event attendance, focusing ad spend on high-conversion niches[1][5].


- **Strategic Pricing & Scarcity:** Create limited edition fanbook versions or timed bundles to encourage urgency and premium pricing, increasing profit margins[1][5].


- **Effective Social & Email Marketing:** Use collected buyer emails to nurture fans with exclusive releases and future merchandise options, boosting lifetime value and repeat purchases[2][5].


### Time Utilization Tips


- Pre-schedule social content and email campaigns during production downtime.

- Combine merch sales, streaming promotion, and live performance marketing into unified campaign themes for efficiency.

- Use mobile club shows as both performance and high-touch sales opportunities, reducing the need for separate marketing efforts.


This integrated approach leverages your fanbook's unique physical/digital blend, regulatory music rights income, and mobile club performances for maximum profit and efficient use of effort[1][2][3][5][8].




Citations: 7

[2] Merch Strategy 101: Key Elements Every Artist Needs to Know https://blog.songtrust.com/merch-cat-strategy-key-elements-every-artist-needs-to-know

[3] How to Maximize Profits From Your Music Merch - Sonicbids Blog https://blog.sonicbids.com/how-to-maximize-profits-from-your-merch

[4] 3 Ways Music Artists Can Increase Merch Revenue - Golden Goods https://goldengoodsusa.com/blog-posts/3-ways-music-artists-can-increase-merch-revenue/

[5] 8 Artist Merch Ideas and Strategies to Help You Make More Money https://single.xyz/blogs/blog/8-artist-merch-ideas-strategies-increase-sales

[6] Creative Strategies to Increase Sales & Music Fan Engagement https://labelgrid.com/blog/music-marketing/music-merch-to-grow-sales/

[7] 8 Music Store Marketing Strategies To Improve Sales https://musicshop360.com/blog/music-store-marketing-strategies

[9] Music Merchandise 101: How to design, promote, and profit https://www.aimusicpreneur.com/ai-music-promotion/music-merchandise-design-promote-profit/





Citations: 6

[4] Book Marketing Budget Planning: 12 Simple Steps to ... https://www.automateed.com/book-marketing-budget-planning

[5] Marketing Launch Timeline Template: Step-by-Step Guide ... https://topmostads.com/marketing-launch-timeline-template-2025-guide/

[7] Planning A Launch Campaign & Budget | SV-Marketing https://www.sv-marketing.co.uk/blog/planning-a-launch-campaign-budget

[9] Project Timelines, What to Expect - Mafost Marketing https://marketing.mafost.com/hh/getting-started/project-timelines/

[10] How Much Should I Budget for Product Launch Marketing? https://graphosproduct.com/how-much-should-i-budget-for-product-launch-marketing/



Citations: 5

[1] Beyond Streaming: 7 Music Monetization Strategies (2025) - Chartlex https://chartlex.com/blogs/news/beyond-streaming-music-monetization-strategies-2025

[5] Small Fanbase? No Problem This Release Strategy Pays Anyway! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQGu_GAiEpk

[6] How to Promote Your Music Independently in 2025 (Ultimate Guide) https://thebuzznetwork.net/blog/how-to-promote-your-music-independently-in-2025-ultimate-guide

[7] Albums create the connection we NEED in 2025 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4BVRydoJX0

[8] The Ultimate Guide to Music Marketing in 2025 | DIY Musician https://diymusician.cdbaby.com/music-career/music-marketing-in-2025/

[9] Music Marketing Strategies 2025: For Massive Growth & Fans https://musicreviewworld.com/music-marketing-strategy/

[11] How to Market Your Music on a Budget ($100, $500, $1000) https://blog.boostcollective.ca/how-to-market-your-music-on-a-budget-100-500-1000




Citations: 4

[3] Planning a $1,000 Monthly Marketing Budget for Your Business https://thezoeteam.com/blog/1000-monthly-marketing-budget

[4] How would you spend $1000 on marketing? : r/Entrepreneur - Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/Entrepreneur/comments/154md41/how_would_you_spend_1000_on_marketing/

[5] The $1000 Marketing Plan(TM) http://the1000marketingplan.com

[8] The Marketing Strategy Behind My $1,000:Day ChatGPT ... - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BPjcyawOeWg

[9] 7 Startup Marketing Ideas Under $1000 - Future Founders https://www.futurefounders.com/news-article/7-startup-marketing-ideas-under-1000/



Citations: 3

[1] If you had $1000 to spend on marketing, what would you spend it on? https://www.reddit.com/r/musicmarketing/comments/1hc4hxu/if_you_had_1000_to_spend_on_marketing_what_would/

[2] How I would spend $1,000 on a new song - Music Marketing Monday https://www.musicmarketingmonday.com/p/how-i-would-spend-1-000-on-a-new-song

[3] How to Market Your Music on a Budget ($100, $500, $1000) https://blog.boostcollective.ca/how-to-market-your-music-on-a-budget-100-500-1000

[4] How Much Should I Spend To Promote a Single? https://bandbuilderacademy.com/how-much-spend-promote-single/

[6] How Much Should You Spend On Music Promotion As An Artist https://promo.ly/how-much-to-spend-music-promotion/

[7] Where to spend $1000 budget marketing your song online - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3uU2jMb6u8

[8] What $1000 Gets You Promoting Music Online - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bU8N73ZsEv0

[9] Maximizing Music Promotion on a $1,000 Budget - Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPUAZPgEVfU/




Citations: 2

[1] Branding: Independent Rappers Marketing Blueprint in 2025 https://beatstorapon.com/blog/branding-independent-rappers-marketing-blueprint-in-2025/

[2] Music Marketing For Independent Artists In 2025: A Complete Guide https://pitch-us.com/blogs/marketing/music-marketing-for-independent-artists-in-2025-a-complete-guide

[3] Music Marketing: 5 Practical Strategies for Independent Artists https://www.berklee.edu/berklee-now/news/music-marketing-strategies

[4] The Ultimate Guide to Music Marketing in 2025 | DIY Musician https://diymusician.cdbaby.com/music-career/music-marketing-in-2025/

[5] 5 Smart Music Marketing Strategies for Independent Artists | Octiive https://www.octiive.com/blog/5-smart-music-marketing-strategies-for-independent-artists

[6] Building Your Brand as an Independent Rapper in 2025 - grizzly beatz https://www.grizzlybeatz.com/blog/building-your-brand-as-an-independent-rapper-in-2025

[7] Music Marketing in 2025: The Independent Artist's Handbook https://dittomusic.com/en/blog/music-marketing-the-independent-artists-handbook

[8] 2025's No Go Zone: Mistakes Independent Artists Can't Afford! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67Q3LSnuBsw

[9] How you should promote your song/self as an artist in 2025 - Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/musicindustry/comments/1ia4zjw/how_you_should_promote_your_songself_as_an_artist/



Citations: 1

[2] The Richest Rappers In The World (And Their Astronomical Booking ... https://www.therichest.com/richest-rappers-booking-fees/

[3] The 20 Best Rappers in Their 20s Right Now: 2025 Rankings by ... https://www.reddit.com/r/hiphopheads/comments/1mwvplu/the_20_best_rappers_in_their_20s_right_now_2025/

[4] Here's How Much Your Favorite Rappers Are Paid For A Show https://bleumag.com/music/how-much-are-rappers-paid-for-a-show/

[5] The 50+ Best Rappers Of 2025, Ranked By Fans - Ranker https://www.ranker.com/list/best-rappers-right-now/akansha-kakkad

[6] Top 20 Rappers With the Most Expensive Booking Fees (2018) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jkm2PiDAWCs

[7] The 50 Most Popular Rap Artists Worldwide in 2025 - The Metalverse https://www.themetalverse.net/50-most-popular-rappers/

[8] How Much Do Rappers Charge For Features? - Complex https://www.complex.com/music/a/j-mckinney/rap-features-cost

[9] Rap Power Rankings January 2025 - RapTV https://raptv.com/article/power-rankings-january-2025/

[10] The Highest Rapper Booking Fees of 2024 #hiphop #rap #music https://www.youtube.com/shorts/pORQFiKXLnY


 
 
 

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