A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Athelaston Mayers, is an American rapper, record producer, and fashion icon with a net worth of approximately $20 million as of 2025. Born on October 3, 1988, the Harlem native has established himself as a major force in the music and fashion industries. From his tumultuous early life to his successful career and legal troubles, here is a detailed look into his journey.
How Did A$AP Rocky Rise to Fame?
A$AP Rocky’s music career took off when he joined the Harlem-based A$AP Mob in 2007. His breakthrough came in 2011 when his song “Peso” leaked online and gained traction on Hot 97, one of New York’s most influential radio stations. This was quickly followed by “Purple Swag,” another hit that solidified his place in the rap industry.
His rising popularity earned him a $3 million deal with Sony, RCA Records, and Polo Grounds Music. This deal allocated $1.7 million for his solo career and $1.3 million for his company, A$AP Worldwide, co-founded with A$AP Yams.
By 2013, A$AP Rocky released his debut album, “Long. Live. A$AP,” which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and received gold certification in 2015. His sophomore album, “At. Long. Last. A$AP” (2015), also hit No. 1, though it experienced a faster decline in sales. Despite this, Rocky continued to expand his influence in both music and fashion.
What Are His Biggest Career Achievements?
Over the years, A$AP Rocky has collaborated with numerous artists, including Drake, Tyler, the Creator, Kid Cudi, Frank Ocean, and Lana Del Rey. His 2018 album, “Testing,” debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard charts, further proving his staying power.
Aside from music, A$AP Rocky has ventured into acting and fashion. He has appeared in several films, including:
- “Dope”* (2015)*
- “Zoolander 2”* (2016)*
- “Monster”* (2018)*
- “Stockholm Syndrome”* (2021)*
His influence in the fashion world is equally remarkable. He launched his own A$AP clothing brand and collaborated with Raf Simons, a renowned designer. Rocky’s impact on streetwear and high fashion has cemented his status as a style icon.
What Is His Personal Life Like?
A$AP Rocky has had several high-profile relationships. He dated rapper Iggy Azalea from 2011 to 2012 and was briefly engaged to Chanel Iman between 2013 and 2014.
In May 2021, Rocky confirmed his relationship with Rihanna, calling her the “love of his life.” The couple welcomed their first child, RZA, in May 2022. During Super Bowl LVII, Rihanna revealed she was pregnant with their second child, Riot, who was born in August 2023.
What Legal Issues Has He Faced?
1. Early Legal Troubles
Rocky’s first major legal issue came in July 2012, when he was sued for attacking a man in a clothing store. He was arrested but later reached a plea bargain.
In August 2014, he was charged with assault after allegedly slapping a woman at a music festival. The case was dismissed due to a lack of witnesses, but the woman later sued him privately, leading to an undisclosed settlement.
2. The Sweden Incident (2019)
One of Rocky’s most publicized legal battles occurred in July 2019 when he was arrested for aggravated assault in Stockholm, Sweden. The incident involved a fight with a man named Mustafa Jafari, who was allegedly attacked by Rocky and his entourage.
Despite video evidence showing Rocky pleading with the man to stop following them, he was detained for nearly a month at Kronoberg Remand Prison. The U.S. government, celebrities, and even then-President Donald Trump called for his release, but he was ultimately convicted of assault. However, since he had already served a month, his sentence was suspended, and he was required to pay $1,270 in damages to the victim.
3. The 2022 Hollywood Shooting Case
In April 2022, A$AP Rocky was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport in connection to a Hollywood shooting in November 2021. His bail was set at $550,000, and he was released soon after. Authorities searched his home and collected evidence, leading to formal charges in August 2022 by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
What’s Next for A$AP Rocky?
A$AP Rocky has announced a new studio album titled “Don’t Be Dumb”, which fans eagerly anticipate. His recent work, collaborations, and family life with Rihanna and their two children suggest that he is entering a new chapter—both professionally and personally.
Despite past controversies, Rocky remains one of hip-hop’s most influential figures, with a successful career in music, fashion, and entertainment. His net worth of $20 million reflects his multifaceted ventures, and with new music and business projects on the horizon, that number is likely to grow in the coming years.
