Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter, 38

Net worth: $547 million
Among the top 20 richest Americans under 40!
Jay-Z is the richest hip-hop entertainer, barely edging 50 Cent for the crown. Though he recently stepped down from his position as Def Jam CEO, he can probably find ways to busy himself with ownership of the New Jersey Nets, worldwide expansion of his 40/40 clubs, the Rocawear clothing line and a new J Hotels venture. Not to mention his erstwhile recording career—still think it's a hard-knock life, Jay?

NEXT »