This article explores AZ net worth, analyzing his remarkable financial accomplishments and the key factors that have contributed to his successful journey. AZ, whose real name is Anthony Cruz, is a well-known rapper from Brooklyn, New York. He gained initial recognition for his guest feature on the song “Life’s a Bitch” from Nas’ iconic debut album, Illmatic. This verse has become legendary and solidified AZ place in hip-hop history. AZ started his career as a member of the hip-hop group—the Firm member, alongside Nas, Foxy Brown, and Cormega.
AZ net Biography
Age & Zodiac Sign
- AZ was born on March 9, 1972, making him 51.
- His zodiac sign is Pisces.
Height, Weight & Physical Stats
- AZ stands at a height of 5’8″.
- His weight is not publicly known.
- AZ is known for being in good physical shape and is recognized for his energetic live performances.
Early Life and Family
AZ was born in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, and grew up in East New York, Brooklyn. He started writing rap lyrics at the age of 12. Anthony Cruz, also known as AZ, began his music career in the United States. Cruz settled in Miami and crossed paths with producer Willie Lindo, who recognized his talent. He has a sister, and his parents have Dominican and African American descent. He spent his early life with his mother and sister in Brooklyn.
Education
AZ attended Eli Whitney High School in Brooklyn. However, he dropped out of high school in the 11th grade to pursue a music career.
Family and Relationships
- AZ has been married twice.
- He has one son from his first marriage.
- Specific details about his current relationships and marital status are unknown.
| Information | Details |
| Age | 51 years old |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Height | 5’8″ |
| Weight | Not publicly known |
| Early Life | Born in Bedford–Stuyvesant, Brooklyn |
| Family | Has a sister |
| Ethnicity | Dominican and African American |
| Education | Attended Eli Whitney High School |
| Marital Status | Married twice |
| Children | One son from the first marriage |
| Current Marital Status | Unknown |
Career
AZ started his career as a member of the hip-hop group—the Firm member, alongside Nas, Foxy Brown, and Cormega. The group was formed in 1996 by Dr. Dre and signed to his label, Aftermath Entertainment. Cruz released his debut single, “Tell Me What’s Up,” in 1994, which gained popularity in Miami. As a result, his debut album titled “Where There Is Love” was released in 1995. AZ signed a record deal with E.M.I. Records and released his first solo album, “Doe or Die,” the following year. This album received positive reviews and achieved commercial success, establishing AZ as an insightful lyricist in the mafioso rap genre.
The album achieved critical acclaim and spawned hit singles. Cruz has released several successful albums throughout his career, including “Ghetto Child” (1997), “Distant Relatives” (2001), and “Unlimited” (2004). These releases showcased his versatility and contributed to his prominence as a reggae singer. Cruz has collaborated with notable artists in the reggae genre, such as Buju Banton, Sean Paul, and Damian Marley, further solidifying his reputation and expanding his fan base.
Industries/Sectors of Success
Music: Cruz’s primary industry of success is music. He has released hit albums, won awards (including a Grammy), and collaborated with renowned artists.
Fashion: Cruz ventured into the fashion industry by founding the clothing line Cruz Wear, showcasing his influence and style.
Business: Cruz owns the record label Tad’s Record, providing a platform for emerging artists and contributing to the music industry’s growth.
AZ net worth
AZ, also recognized as Anthony Cruz, is an American rapper.AZ Net Worth is approximately $5 million. The majority of his wealth has been generated from his thriving rap career. His debut album, “Doe or Die,” succeeded commercially, and subsequent albums gained critical acclaim. Being a member of the hip-hop group The Firm, alongside Nas, Foxy Brown, Cormega, and Nature, further contributed to his financial success. The group released their only album, “The Album,” in 1997. AZ second solo album, “Pieces of a Man,” followed in 1998. Throughout his career, AZ net worth has grown steadily. However, it is essential to note that estimating someone’s total assets and income can be challenging and subject to various sources. suggests Some resources suggest that his net worth was $10 million, while other sources indicate a range between $1 million and $5 million.
Despite his financial success, AZ has maintained privacy regarding his personal life, and it is reputed that he is single. His focus has primarily been on his rap career and building his wealth through music ventures.
UNKNOWN FACTS ABOUT AZ
- AZ was raised in East New York, Brooklyn, and began writing rap lyrics at the age of 12.
- He became friends with rapper Nas in the early 1990s, leading to their collaboration in the music industry.
- His debut studio album, “Doe or Die,” released on October 10, 1995, reached the top spot on the US Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums chart and #15 on the US Billboard 200 chart.
- As a member of The Firm, he contributed to the group’s debut studio album, “The Album,” released on October 21, 1997, which achieved chart-topping success and was certified Gold by Music Canada.
- AZ 7th studio album, “Undeniable,” released on April 1, 2008, received notable chart positions on the US Hot Rap Albums, US Top Independent Albums, and US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts.
- He was born in Spanish Harlem, New York City, on July 2, 1971, and began his rap career at the age of 12, signing with JMJ Records at 16.
- AZ is renowned for his smooth, laid-back flow and introspective lyrics, collaborating with prominent hip-hop figures such as Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, and Dr. Dre.
- He owns his record label, AZ Records, showcasing his success as a businessman in the music industry.
- AZ is a vegan and actively supports animal and children-related charities through his philanthropic endeavors.
- Notably, he declined a record deal with Death Row Records due to his aversion to the label’s association with violence.
- He graced the covers of prestigious magazines, including The Source and Vibe, being the first rapper to appear on Vibe’s cover.
- He has been honored as a member of the Hip Hop Hall of Fame.
Conclusion
AZ, also recognized as Anthony Cruz, is a highly regarded rapper hailing from Brooklyn, New York. He has achieved notable milestones throughout his career, including a remarkable guest appearance on Nas’ acclaimed album Illmatic and successful collaborations with renowned artists. AZ is praised for his introspective style and mastery of lyricism, which have led to Grammy nominations. In addition to his musical pursuits, he has ventured into entrepreneurship by establishing his fashion brand, Cruz Wear, and assuming ownership of the record label Tad’s Record. With an estimation, AZ net worth is approximately $5 million. AZ influence and significant contributions to the hip-hop industry are widely acknowledged.
FAQs
Q1: What are some of AZ plans?
AZ has exciting plans for the future. He intends to keep creating and sharing his music with the world while going on tour to connect with his fans. Additionally, he is keenly interested in expanding his business ventures, although the details have not yet been disclosed. Beyond his music and business pursuits, AZ is passionate about making a positive impact. He will continue supporting charitable causes, particularly those focused on animals and children. Furthermore, he aims to engage in political activism, using his platform to raise awareness and effect meaningful change.
Q2: What are the challenges to AZ net worth?
Anthony Cruz’s net worth is susceptible to various challenges. These include the potential decline in the value of his assets, such as real estate, during a housing market downturn. The risk of business failure also poses a threat if his ventures are not effectively managed. Furthermore, the volatility of the stock market could lead to a decrease in the value of his investments. These challenges require careful navigation to safeguard and grow his net worth.