Jay-Z, Diddy Make Forbes' Wealthiest Hip-Hop Artists List

Hip-hop is just as lucrative a business as the next, and there's nobody that knows that better than Diddy. As a record executive, fashion designer and vodka seller, the entertainment mogul takes the top spot on Forbes magazine's 2011 list of Wealthiest Hip-Hop Artists, which was released on Thursday (March 10).

With a whopping fortune of $475 million, the "Dirty Money" frontman's net worth is attributed to his undertakings in his Sean John clothing line and Bad Boy Worldwide record label. However, his largest profit comes from his deal with vodka brand Ciroc.

Right behind Diddy is Jay-Z, whose net worth totals $450 million from his Roc Nation label, fashion line and advertising. Among his recent extracurricular projects is his memoir "Decoded," which was released last fall.

Dr. Dre nabs the third spot on the list with a bank account worth $125 million, rendered by his own solo career as well launching those of Snoop Dogg and Eminem.

Forbes' list of Hip-Hop's Wealthiest Artists rounds out with a tie between Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson and Birdman at $100 million. While 50 Cent took home a hefty paycheck for the sale of his shares in Vitamin Water to Coca-Cola, Cash Money Records co-founder Birdman continues to rake in the dough from his Young Money-Cash Money artist roster, which includes Nicki Minaj, Drake and Lil Wayne.

Forbes revealed that the list was formed in the same manner as its list of the world's billionaires, taking into account current holdings, past earnings and financial documentation. For those wondering why hip-hop heavyweight Russell Simmons isn't on the list, the mag's editors say they wanted to keep their list exclusive to performers.