Joseph Antonio Cartagena, famously known as Fat Joe, has crafted a significant impact in the music industry since his early days with the Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.) in 1992, evolving into a celebrated solo artist and founder of Terror Squad. With a net worth of $4 million as of 2024, Fat Joe’s journey from the Bronx to international acclaim is marked by hit singles and ventures beyond music into film and podcast hosting.
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His story is a testament to his enduring influence in hip-hop, transcending his early life’s challenges to become a respected figure in entertainment and culture.
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Fat Joe Net Worth
Fat Joe, the New York-born rapper and producer, has built a notable career in the music industry, culminating in a net worth of $4 million as of 2024. His journey from early beginnings in the hip-hop group Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.) to his solo success and entrepreneurial ventures in music production has solidified his financial standing.
Who is Fat Joe?
Joseph Antonio Cartagena, widely recognized as Fat Joe, is a pivotal figure in American hip hop, emerging from the Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.) to establish a notable solo career and the influential Terror Squad group and record label.
With classic hits like “What’s Luv?” and “Lean Back,” Fat Joe has left an indelible mark on the music charts and earned platinum distinctions, showcasing his lasting impact on the genre. Beyond his musical achievements, he has ventured into acting, with roles in films and series, and embraced media with his Coca Vision podcast on Tidal, highlighting his versatility and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
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Early Life
Joseph Antonio Cartagena, known professionally as Fat Joe, was born on August 19, 1970, in the Bronx, New York City, into a family of Puerto Rican and Cuban descent. Growing up in the challenging environment of the Forest Houses in Morrisania, he turned to stealing to support his family and described himself as a bully during his youth. It was his brother who introduced him to hip hop, sparking a passion that would eventually lead him away from a life of crime and towards a successful music career.
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Career
From his early beginnings as Fat Joe da Gangsta within the Diggin’ in the Crates Crew (D.I.T.C.) to his solo breakthrough with albums like Represent and Jealous One’s Envy, Joseph Antonio Cartagena has solidified his place in hip-hop history. Beyond his music, Fat Joe has discovered and nurtured talent through Terror Squad, contributing to the careers of artists like Big Pun and Remy Ma.
Transitioning from Atlantic Records to ventures with E1 Music, Fat Joe has continued to evolve, exploring collaborations across genres and mediums, including film and virtual events. His journey reflects a blend of raw talent, entrepreneurial spirit, and an enduring impact on the music and culture of New York and beyond, highlighted by hits like “Lean Back” and ventures into joint albums like Plata O Plomo with Remy Ma and Family Ties with Dre.
50 Cent Feud
In 2004, Fat Joe’s Terror Squad released “True Story,” featuring the hit “Lean Back” with Remy Ma, dominating charts for three weeks. The next year, Joe’s feud with 50 Cent began, sparked by Joe’s collaboration with Ja Rule, escalating with diss tracks and public insults, including a notorious confrontation at the 2005 MTV Video Music Awards.
Fat Joe then joined forces with Lil Wayne for “Me, Myself & I,” leading to the Grammy-nominated “Make It Rain.” Despite 50 Cent’s claims of ending Joe’s career, Fat Joe continued to release successful albums and collaborate with artists like Ludacris and French Montana. Throughout his career, starting from signing with Atlantic Records in 1997, Fat Joe released impactful albums like “Don Cartagena” and “Jealous Ones Still Envy (J.O.S.E.),” maintaining relevance in the music scene despite rivalries and changing industry dynamics.
Why is ‘Fat Joe weight loss’ trending?
“Fat Joe weight loss” captured public attention when Jada Pinkett Smith posted a selfie, leading to comparisons with the rapper, sparking widespread conversation about his significant weight reduction. Over the years, Fat Joe has been open about his journey to shed weight, notably losing 88 pounds by 2011 and adopting a low-carb diet, cutting out white bread, rice, and pasta.
Despite his transformation, he announced in 2022 that he wouldn’t change his iconic stage name, viewing it as a key part of his brand identity. His dedication to a healthier lifestyle culminated in a revelation during a 2023 Men’s Health interview, where he shared that he had lost over 200 pounds, illustrating a profound and inspiring transformation.
What Are The Legal Issues Of Fat Joe?
Fat Joe has encountered several legal issues throughout his career, starting with an arrest in 1998 alongside Big Pun for assault and robbery, followed by another arrest in 2002, which was later dropped. Additionally, Fat Joe has been named a witness in two separate murder cases, one in 1994 involving his former bodyguard and another in 2007 related to a double murder in Miami Beach.
Perhaps the most significant legal challenge came in December 2012 when he pleaded guilty to tax evasion, failing to pay taxes on over $3 million, leading to a four-month prison sentence in 2013, from which he was released in November of the same year.
Who Is Fat Joe’s Wife?
Fat Joe, whose real name is Joseph Antonio Cartagena, is married to Lorena Cartagena. The couple, married since 1995, has shown a strong commitment to each other, pledging to always stay together despite any challenges. They share a daughter named Azariah, born in 2006, and Fat Joe has two sons from previous relationships.
Together, they have made public appearances, such as at the BET Hip-Hop Awards in 2023, showcasing their unity and Joe’s role as a family man. Their long-standing relationship is celebrated within the entertainment community, highlighted by their baby shower attended by notable figures, underscoring the respect and love they share.
Where is Fat Joe now?
Currently, Fat Joe is a significant presence on social media, boasting millions of followers across various platforms, highlighting his continued relevance and engagement with fans. He recently made a notable appearance at the BET Hip-Hop Awards 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia, showcasing his enduring influence in the music industry.
Beyond music, Fat Joe has ventured into entrepreneurship, co-founding the hair care company ReWind It 10, which focuses on high-performance hair color management systems, reflecting his diverse interests and business acumen in today’s fast-paced world.
FAQs about Fat Joe Net Worth
- When did Fat Joe start his music career?
Fat Joe began his music career in 1992 with the hip-hop group D.I.T.C. - What is Fat Joe’s real name?
His real name is Joseph Antonio Cartagena. - What is Fat Joe’s most successful track?
“Lean Back” with Terror Squad is among his most successful tracks. - Has Fat Joe ventured outside of music?
Yes, he has appeared in movies and hosts the Coca Vision podcast on Tidal. - What is Fat Joe’s net worth?
As of now, Fat Joe has a net worth of $4 million.
