The roots of Gospel music can be traced through several popular genres. And the direction of Gospel music, specifically, has steadily evolved over time. One person who can get a lot of credit for its modern revolution is Kirk Franklin. Making his musical debut in 1993 with the album, “Kirk Franklin and The Family,” the Texas native has been blazing the charts and airwaves with faith-based hits meant to inspire those who encounter his music. However, the acclaim of his first album did not yield the monetary returns that typically come with a successful project.

In Young Dolph’s popular song “Get Paid,” he gave listeners two primary rules for wealth accumulation. “Rule number one (What’s that?), get the money first (Okay). Rule number two (What?), don’t forget to get the money (Ayy).” And that’s the advice he lived by and supported his family with, even after his passing. Born Adolph Robert Thornton Jr., the Memphis-based rapper was known for some hits like “Major,” “Preach,” and “To Be Honest.” Beyond his music, Dolph was also known for his philanthropic work in his hometown. According to Mic, between 2015-2019, Dolph gave out turkeys to families for Thanksgiving. He also donated $25,000 to Hamilton High School, the rapper’s alma mater. Days before his tragic passing in November 2021, Dolph was planning a food and clothing giveaway for needy families in Memphis, TN. And while his acts of service and kindness reached many in the community, he was keen on building wealth for his family.

When you’re an established producer like Hit-Boy, one might think that with new levels of success comes more commas on the check. However, in the music industry, that seems to be an anomaly. Hit-Boy, born Chauncey Alexander Hollis Jr., is the perfect name for the producer responsible for hits that have moved the culture for years. From credits on Jay-Z and Ye’s “Watch the Throne” to producing tracks with Justin Timberlake, albums with Nas, Big Sean, and the list goes on, he has had his fair share of what life in the industry looks like. But, things aren’t always as they appear. “I’m 33 now and have multiple Grammys, produced a lot of your favorite artists’ biggest songs on top of turning in over 450-plus records since I first signed and @upmg still doesn’t have it in them to simply be fair,” said Hit-Boy in a previous post on Instagram dating back to 2020. “If they’re doing this to me with all I’ve accomplished through hard work, I can only imagine the kids who don’t have big...