Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4, 1969), known professionally as Jay Z (formerly Jay-Z), is an American rapper, businessman and investor. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists in America. In 2014, Forbes estimated Jay Z’s net worth at nearly $520 million. He is one of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, having sold more than 100 million records, while receiving 21 Grammy Awards for his musical work, and numerous additional nominations.