MC Hammer Net Worth, Wiki, Bio, Age, Height, Family, Relationship And Many More
What is MC Hammer’s net worth?
In the 1990s, American rapper, musician, and dancer MC Hammer had a net worth of over $70 million. His unusual dance skills and expensive dress choices defined his success at this time. Despite his affluence, Hammer struggled financially owing to excessive spending.
MC Hammer declared bankruptcy in 1996, a turning point in his finances. His inability to maintain his opulent lifestyle, including a famous mansion, led to his bankruptcy. him lavish lifestyle and fancy spending caused him financial problems.
Despite financial difficulties, MC Hammer’s music career was successful. He left a lasting impact on the music industry by selling over 25 million albums in the 1990s. His story shows that financial responsibility is important even in success.
Category | Richest Celebrities › Rappers |
Net Worth | $2 Million |
Date of Birth | Mar 30, 1962 (61 years old) |
Place of Birth | Oakland |
Gender | Male |
Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.82 m) |
Profession | Preacher, Entrepreneur, Actor, Musician, Songwriter, Rapper, Singer, Choreographer, Dancer, Entertainer |
Nationality | United States of America |
Earnings
MC Hammer is valued about $2 million. Not to be sniffed at. Most of humanity wants that bank account. But it’s far from Hammer’s best.
Hammer made around $70 million in the early to mid-1990s. Unfortunately, poor business decisions and unsustainable spending cost him much of that. Hammer declared bankruptcy in 1996.
MC Hammer Early Life
Stanley Kirk Burrell, MC Hammer, was born in Oakland, California, on March 30, 1962. Living in a three-bedroom apartment in an East Oakland housing project with his secretarial mother, professional poker player father, and eight siblings was difficult. The Burrell family sold stray baseballs at the Oakland Coliseum parking lot to survive.
Stanley’s life changed at this parking lot. Charles Finley, Oakland Athletics owner, noticed him at 11. Finley noticed Stanley’s split-dancing skills and saw an opportunity. Charles Finley hired him as a team batboy and clubhouse help. Stanley held this position from 1973 to 1980. A “Master of Ceremonies,” he was known as “M.C.” with the A’s for his charisma and theatrics.
Because he resembled “Hammering” Hank Aaron, he was also called “Hammer” during this time. Burrell graduated from Oakland’s McClymonds High School after being a batboy. After high school, he joined the Navy as a Petty Officer for three years before being honorably discharged.
From East Oakland’s difficult background to MC Hammer’s successful music career, his persistence and talent are evident. His time as an Oakland Athletics batboy shaped his early life and helped him become an entertainment star.
MC Hammer Career
MC Hammer’s “pop rap,” which blended rap with mainstream music, propelled him to fame in the late 1980s. His unique blend of music and theatrics set him apart. He was the first rap artist to attain Diamond status for an album, demonstrating his popularity and commercial success.
MC Hammer’s unique style was well-received, although some rap artists called his mainstream approach “selling out.” He still had a big impact on music. He is one of the most famous and influential rappers of all time, recognized for his music and glamorous dance moves.
MC Hammer started rapping at modest Oakland venues. He received $20,000 from former Oakland A’s players Mike Davis and Dwayne Murphy to pursue his music career when a record deal fell through. MC Hammer founded Bust It Productions with this money. His passion to his work led him to sell albums from his basement and automobile to support his company.
Bust It Productions became Bustin’ Records, with MC Hammer as CEO. He sold over 60,000 copies of his 1987 debut album “Feel My Power” on his own label. The singles “Let’s Get It Started” and “Ring ‘Em” received moderate radio exposure and were successful in local nightclubs, solidifying MC Hammer’s music career.
Superstar status
In 1990, MC Hammer’s career reached its peak when he impressed a Capitol Records executive at an Oakland club. This opportunity led to a record deal and a $1,750,000 advance, launching his career.
One of MC Hammer’s most famous hits was “U Can’t Touch This,” from his 1990 album “Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em.” The song and album topped the Billboard list for 21 weeks. The music classic “U Can’t Touch This” remains beloved. Hammer toured Europe extensively in 1991 to promote the record. Prince, The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, and Faith No More were sampled on the album.
In 1991, MC Hammer released “Too Legit To Quit,” his next hit album. Title track and other tracks from the album peaked on Billboard 200. Boyz II Men opened Hammer’s grandiose record tour. “2 Legit 2 Quit” was one of the most costly music videos ever made, featuring several celebrities. The album went multi-platinum, cementing MC Hammer’s music icon status.
Seven more studio albums followed, with modest to substantial popularity, until his 2009 release. His amazing repertoire has sold over 50 million records globally. He has won three Grammys and several other awards, including lifetime achievement. His best-known songs are still used in commercials, ads, and movies.
MC Hammer tried other things than music. He was an ordained preacher, hosted TV shows, judged dancing competitions, acted, produced, and starred in “Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘Em: The Movie,” a 1990 film. He co-founded “Dance Jam” and became record label CEO in 2008. In addition, he executive produced his short-lived reality show “Hammertime.”
After 30 years, MC Hammer appeared in a Cheetos Super Bowl advertisement in 2020 to celebrate “U Can’t Touch This.” His endorsements for Starburst and 3M Command Strips demonstrate his longevity in pop culture and entertainment.
Personal Life
MC Hammer lives in Tracy, California, in a simple ranch-style house. He lives with Stephanie, his wife since 1985. They now have Bobby, Jeremiah, Sammy, Sarah, and A’keiba. They also look after Hammer’s nephew, demonstrating their family-oriented lifestyle.
MC Hammer routinely posts updates and observations on social media. He consults for or invests in eight internet startups outside of music. He works 10-12 hours a day on tech projects, showing his dedication to the industry. He sends 30-40 tweets every day on social media, showing his dedication to communicating with his followers and staying current in IT.
MC Hammer Bankruptcy
Unfortunately, MC Hammer went bankrupt publicly. New album releases, record label management, and other entrepreneurial initiatives have helped him recover.
MC Hammer’s best year was 1991. In those 12 months, he made $33 million from records, merchandise, sponsorships, and touring. Earning $33 million in 1991 is equivalent to $70 million today.
MC Hammer spent big during its massive earnings. Hammer owed $10 million between 1990 and 1996. He declared bankruptcy in 1996. Hammer’s bankruptcy filing stated he borrowed $500,000 from NFL/MLB player Deion Sanders and paid $500,000 to a lawyer.
Hammer spent money on hundreds of exotic sports vehicles, planes, a record label, and a 12-acre Fremont mansion.
Hammer was also known for his large entourage. His entourage cost him $500,000 a month at his height.
Hammer owed the IRS $800,000 in 1996 and 1997 taxes and penalties by December 2013. Several court documents state that Hammer must pay the IRS for every dollar he earns before receiving it.
Hammer Time Mansion
MC Hammer bought a 12.55-acre Fremont, California, property for $5 million in October 1990. He was emotional about this property because it was in the hills above his nasty Oakland neighborhood. Buying a $5 million California mansion outside of the ultra-high-end zip codes was unheard of at the time. This expensive buy cost $5 million in 1990, or $11 million now.
With this vast property, MC Hammer began a massive restoration. He demolished the 11,000-square-foot mansion and erected a 40,000-square-foot new one. A bowling alley, Italian marble floors, two swimming pools, multiple tennis courts, a recording studio, state-of-the-art computerized thermostats, a media room, four dishwashers, a rehearsal hall, a 17-car garage, and a baseball diamond were among the luxurious amenities of the new mansion. This ambitious dream home cost $12–20 million to build and renovate. This would be like spending $25–$45 million on a house today.
The high costs of creating and maintaining this lavish estate hurt MC Hammer’s finances. His next challenge was managing the property’s ongoing costs.
After declaring bankruptcy in 1996, MC Hammer listed the home for $6.8 million. A $5.3 million buyer bought the mansion in August 1997. After several years, the property sold for $5.4 million in 2012, ending MC Hammer’s intriguing real estate career.
Music and Entertainment Career
Prior to MC Hammer’s “rags to riches to rags and back,” his true name, Stanley Kirk Burrell, was involved in Christian rap. He established the Holy Ghost Boy(s) Christian rap group with singer and musician Jon Gibson (J.G.). Hammer and gospel vocalist Tramaine Hawkins played with Gibson’s band at the Beverly Theatre in Beverly Hills.
Hammer recorded “Word,” “B-Boy Chill” (a live performance is available on YouTube), and “Stupid Def Yal” in 1987 during this period. His 1986 debut album, “Feel My Power,” and 1988 reissue of “Let’s Get It Started” includes “Son of the King,” which he produced. Hammer debuted in “The Wall” with Stanley Kirk Burrell as M.C. Hammer. Jon Gibson’s 1988 album “Change of Heart” had CCM’s first blue-eyed soul singer and/or duet rap smash.
In addition to his early albums and remixes, MC Hammer recorded many unreleased rap songs that are now online. Hammer discovered, signed, and produced new artists through Bust It Records, Oaktown Records, and Full Blast. Oaktown’s 3.5.7, Ho Frat Hoo!, Special Generation, Analise, James Greer, One Cause One Effect, B Angie B, The Stooge Playaz, DASIT (as seen on Ego Trip’s “The (White) Rapper Show”), Teabag, Common Unity, Geeman, and Pleasure Ellis collaborated with or produced his music.
Keyshia Cole, an Oakland native, recorded with MC Hammer at age 12 and sought career advice from him, demonstrating Hammer’s music business mentorship.
MC Hammer famous songs
Song Title | Description |
“U Can’t Touch This” | A signature hit and iconic track. |
“2 Legit 2 Quit” | Energetic chart-topping song. |
“Pray” | A popular song blending rap and gospel. |
“Too Legit to Quit” | Title track of one of his successful albums. |
“Have You Seen Her” | Rap adaptation of the classic Chi-Lites song. |
“Addams Groove” | Featured in the movie “The Addams Family.” |
“Pumps and a Bump” | Known for its memorable music video. |
“Turn This Mutha Out” | A classic from his early career. |
“Let’s Get It Started” | Track from his debut album. |
“Do Not Pass Me By” | A gospel-influenced song. |
“Have You Seen the Muffin Man” | A catchy and humorous track. |
“They Put Me in the Mix” | Part of his early repertoire. |
“It’s All Good” | A song with a positive message. |
“Help the Children” | Advocating for children’s rights. |
“Here Comes the Hammer” | Lively and upbeat track. |
Award recipient, appearances and recognition
Certainly, here’s the list of MC Hammer’s notable awards and achievements.
Award/Honor | Description |
Over 50 Million Records Sold Worldwide | Reflecting his significant impact on the music industry. |
Three Grammy Awards | – Best Rhythm and Blues Song (1990) – Best Rap Solo (1990) – Best Music Video: Long Form (1990) |
Eight American Music Awards | Recognizing his contributions to music. |
People’s Choice Award | An accolade showcasing his popularity among the public. |
NAACP Image Award | Acknowledging his influence in entertainment and culture. |
Billboard Diamond Award | A groundbreaking achievement for being the first hip-hop artist to receive it. |
International Album of the Year Award | Validating his status as a world-class entertainer. |
Sammy Davis, Jr. Award for Entertainer of the Year | Received at the Soul Train Music Awards in 1991. |
Stellar Awards Appearance (1997) | MC Hammer appeared on the Stellar Awards show and discussed his renewed commitment to faith. |
Surprise Appearance at 2005 MTV Video Music Awards | Made a memorable and unexpected appearance at the event. |
Support for Warren Beatty (2008) | Attended the 36th AFI Life Achievement Awards to show support for Warren Beatty. |
Living Legends of Hip Hop Award (2008) | Awarded by Hip Hop International at the World Hip Hop Dance Championship. |
Celebrating the Best of Twitter (2009) | Celebrated at the first Shorty Awards, recognizing top short-form content creators on Twitter. |
Appearance in “Zombie Apocalypse” (2009) | Made an “accomplishment appearance” in the game for the Xbox 360. |
Panel Judge at the Second Annual Shorty Awards (2010) | Participated as a panel judge. |
Gravity Summit Social Media Marketer of the Year Award (2011) | Recognized for his contributions to social media. |
Dance Performance with Psy at 40th American Music Awards (2012) | A memorable performance alongside Psy. |
George and Ira Gershwin Award for Lifetime Musical Achievement (2013) | Acknowledged for his contributions to music. |
MC Hammer social media
MC Hammer interacts with fans on social media and posts about his life and projects. MC Hammer is on these social media platforms as of January 2022:
- Twitter: MC Hammer posts frequently, interacts with followers, and discusses his activities. For his latest thoughts and opinions, follow him on Twitter.
- Instagram: He posts personal and professional images and videos on Instagram. His daily activities and hobbies are shown on this site.
- Facebook: MC Hammer’s official Facebook page features music, career, and personal updates. His Facebook page updates you on his activities and announcements.
- YouTube: MC Hammer’s official YouTube channel has music videos, interviews, and career information. To watch his videos, subscribe to his channel.
- MC Hammer’s LinkedIn profile details his commercial and entrepreneurial interests. This platform provides a unique look at his non-music career.
- Other platforms: MC Hammer co-founded DanceJam.com and received the Gravity Summit Social Media Marketer of the Year Award for his social media work.
His presence on social networks and the stuff he shares may have changed since my January 2022 knowledge update. I recommend checking MC Hammer’s official social media pages or searching online for the latest developments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MC Hammer’s career has seen extreme highs and financial struggles. His rise from a difficult Oakland beginnings to global fame as an artist and performer shows his talent and determination.
Over 50 million records sold worldwide and three Grammy Awards and the Billboard Diamond Award demonstrate MC Hammer’s influence on the music business. His unusual “pop rap” approach set him apart, although hip-hop fans debated it.
Early 1990s financial success allowed MC Hammer to live lavishly, notably in a Fremont, California mansion. However, excessive expenditure and business mistakes caused a 1996 high-profile bankruptcy.
MC Hammer’s music career survived these financial issues. His classic hits “U Can’t Touch This” and “2 Legit 2 Quit” are still featured in media. He preached, hosted TV shows, judged dance contests, acted, produced, and co-founded internet businesses in addition to music.
MC Hammer’s social media activity shows his commitment to fans and tech projects. Super Bowl advertisements and Starburst and 3M Command Strip endorsements demonstrate his pop culture influence.
MC Hammer’s life was full of spectacular triumphs, financial losses, and a lasting legacy in music and entertainment. His music business reach and versatility demonstrate his lasting influence on popular culture.