Everything about Rick Ross

Rap superstar turned business mogul—founder of Maybach Music Group and a thriving empire in hospitality, spirits, and real estate.

Bio

Rick Ross, born William Leonard Roberts II on January 28, 1976, in Clarksdale, Mississippi, grew up in Carol City, Florida. After a brief stint in college, he pursued music full-time, rising from the underground rap scene to mainstream success with his 2006 debut album, Port of Miami, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.

Since then, Ross has released several chart-topping albums and founded Maybach Music Group, launching the careers of artists like Meek Mill and Wale. Beyond music, he’s built a strong business portfolio that includes owning Wingstop franchises, investing in real estate, launching grooming products, and writing a bestselling memoir. Ross remains a cultural icon known for blending bold artistry with sharp entrepreneurship.

Known For

Founded Maybach Music Group (MMG)

In 2009, Rick Ross launched Maybach Music Group, a record label that signed major artists like Meek Mill, Wale, and Gunplay. MMG quickly became a prominent force in hip-hop, producing chart-topping albums and elevating Ross’s influence in the music industry beyond his solo career.

Owns Over 25 Wingstop Franchise Locations

Ross is one of Wingstop’s most notable franchise owners, with a portfolio of over two dozen locations. His involvement in the brand has significantly increased its visibility in pop culture, and he has openly credited franchise ownership as a key pillar of his long-term wealth-building strategy. 

Invested in Real Estate and Property Development

Beyond music and food, Ross has expanded into real estate. He owns multiple properties, including a 235-acre estate in Georgia once owned by boxer Evander Holyfield. The estate has been used for major film productions and events, showcasing his eye for high-value investments.

Launched a Line of Grooming and Lifestyle Products

In 2018, Ross debuted the “RICH by Rick Ross” luxury grooming line, offering beard oils, shampoos, and styling products. The brand reflects his larger-than-life image and caters to a growing market of men’s self-care and wellness consumers.

Authored a Bestselling Memoir, Hurricanes

Ross published his memoir, Hurricanes, in 2019, which became a bestseller. The book chronicles his rise from humble beginnings to hip-hop stardom and entrepreneurial success, offering insight into his business mindset and personal resilience.

Rick Ross's Social Impact

Ross is more than just a music mogul; he’s also committed to giving back to the community. He has made meaningful contributions to his hometown in Miami through various charitable activities. One notable instance was in 2020 when he donated $10,000 to Miami’s Norland Senior High School to support educational programs. But his impact doesn’t stop there. He also focuses on uplifting young talent in the music industry, providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills. Beyond these acts, he’s engaged in numerous charitable events, food drives, and mentorship programs. It’s clear that Rick Ross is as passionate about social change as he is about music.

I'm very versatile and there's nothing I really regret in my life.

Books by Ross

Books recommended by Rick Ross

The Perfect Day to Boss Up

The Perfect Day to Boss Up is Rick Ross’s no-nonsense guide to hustling harder, thinking smarter, and building your empire. Packed with personal stories, business insights, and tough-love advice, the book lays out how to level up your mindset and take control of your success one move at a time.

811Y0kR7XlL._AC_CR0,0,0,0_SX960_SY720_

Hurricanes: A Memoir

Hurricanes is Rick Ross’s raw and revealing memoir, tracing his journey from the streets of Carol City to global hip-hop stardom and business success. With honesty and grit, he shares the highs, lows, and lessons behind his rise offering a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and hustle.

Want personal advice?

Get a free consultation from Hustler’s Library! Fill out the quick survey, and a Hustler’s Library Small Business Specialist will contact you shortly!

Trusted by 1,000+ entrepreneurs.

More Hustlers

Other hustlers who have made waves in their industries.

Everything About Virgil Abloh

From Off-White to Louis Vuitton, Virgil Abloh built a global voice through style and disruption. He turned streetwear...

Everything About Grant Cardone

Grant Cardone built his brand on volume, confidence, and nonstop execution. From real estate to sales training, his...

Entrepreneur Interview #1: Darci Uetrecht

Darci Uetrecht didn’t follow a typical path to entrepreneurship—she built Spirit Trucking after leaving academia and diving into...

Everything about Chad Hurley

From YouTube to tech investments, Chad Hurley built his career by seeing what others didn’t. He scaled fast,...

Recommended Books by Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O’Neal looks for books that challenge, teach, and push him forward. His reading touches on everything from...

Books recommended by Chad Hurley

Chad Hurley reads to stay sharp on innovation, leadership, and building what’s next. His picks cover startups, creativity,...

Everything About Mark Cuban

Mark Cuban turned smart moves and relentless hustle into a multi-billion dollar empire. From selling startups to owning...

Everything about T Boone Pickens

T. Boone Pickens built a reputation as one of the boldest voices in American energy and finance. From...

Books Recommended by Michael Rubin

Rubin’s reading list is packed with ideas on leadership, scaling, and smart execution. He looks for lessons that...

Everything About Emma Grede

Emma Grede built her brand on inclusivity, strategy, and fearless execution. From Good American to SKIMS, she’s reshaping...

Recommended Books by Kevin Hart

Hart’s book recommendations show how he mixes motivation with self-awareness. He looks for stories that teach, challenge, and...

Recommended Books by Ryan Serhant

Ryan Serhant’s book picks are direct, actionable, and results-focused. He reads to stay ready, lead teams, and sell...

Recommended Books by Biaheza

What does Biaheza read while building in public and scaling fast? His favorite books dive into money, mindset,...

Everything About Michael Rubin

Michael Rubin built his empire by moving fast, thinking big, and staying customer-first. From Fanatics to major sports...

Recommended Books by Virgil Abloh

Abloh believed reading was a tool for pushing boundaries. His picks are layered with art, meaning, and movement...

Everything About Ryan Serhant

From cold calls to million-dollar listings, Ryan Serhant scaled with strategy and serious drive. He built a brand...

Everything About Gary Vaynerchuk

Gary Vaynerchuk built his brand by staying loud, fast, and deeply authentic. From wine to Web3, his path...

Everything About Patrick Bet-David

From military mindset to CEO leadership, Bet-David’s story is about structure and scale. He grew with focus, content,...