Rico Love is a name synonymous with success in the music industry. He has built his fortune not only as a songwriter and record producer but also as an entrepreneur and solo artist. At SingerFortune, we explore the intricate details of Rico Love net worth and his financial journey, from crafting chart-topping hits to launching his record label.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Richard Preston Butler Jr. |
| Popular Name | Rico Love |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | December 3, 1982 |
| Age | 41 |
| Parents | Divorced (raised by mother in Milwaukee) |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Birthplace | New Orleans, Louisiana |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Education | Florida A&M University |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Robin Thompson |
| Children | Two (Carys Preston and Believe Beyond) |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $14 Million |
| Source of Wealth | Songwriting, Record Production, Label Ownership |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) |
What is the Net Worth of Rico Love in 2024?
Rico Love’s estimated net worth of $14 million in 2024 places him among the industry’s leading figures. His wealth comes from multiple income streams, including royalties, collaborations, label profits, and solo projects. He may not be in the billionaire club, but his contributions to music, both creatively and financially, are undeniable.
Some contemporaries whose financial journeys are comparable to Rico Love’s include:
- Usher
- Beyoncé
- Nelly
- Trey Songz
- Kelly Rowland
- Chris Brown
- Robin Thicke
- Jamie Foxx
- Fat Joe
- Teairra Marí
If you’re interested in discovering more about the wealthiest artists globally, explore our feature on the richest singers in the world.
Rico Love Salary and Financial Overview
How He Built His Career and Achieved Success
Rico Love’s financial ascent is rooted in his unique ability to combine creativity with business acumen. Starting in the early 2000s, he gained recognition by collaborating with Usher on the Confessions album.
The success of songs like Throwback catapulted him into the spotlight, and the album itself went diamond, generating massive royalties for all contributors, including Rico.
He didn’t stop there. Rico diversified his income by working with artists like Beyoncé and Nelly, penning hit tracks that topped charts and earned critical acclaim. These collaborations secured him a steady stream of royalty income, often considered the backbone of his financial stability.
His decision to establish Division1 Records in 2010 added another layer of income. By signing and producing for artists like Teairra Marí and Tiara Thomas, Rico transformed from a collaborator into a mentor and business owner, earning from their successes as well.
Key Collaborations and Contributions to Music
One of Rico Love’s most lucrative endeavors is his songwriting for other artists. His financial contributions to music include:
- Royalties from Beyoncé’s Hits: Tracks like Sweet Dreams from I Am… Sasha Fierce brought in substantial earnings due to their massive commercial success.
- Usher’s Blockbusters: The chart-topping single There Goes My Baby solidified Rico’s position as a go-to songwriter in R&B.
- Nelly’s Just a Dream: This platinum single alone earned millions, ensuring Rico’s royalties for years to come.
These projects also enhanced his reputation, allowing him to command higher fees for subsequent collaborations.
Achievements and Awards
His accolades go beyond creative recognition—they translate directly into financial success. His contributions to Grammy-winning albums like Confessions and I Am… Sasha Fierce ensured he earned a share of the profits.
For songwriters, Grammy recognition significantly boosts demand, allowing Rico to negotiate higher rates for future projects.
Additionally, Billboard named him Hip-Hop Songwriter, Producer, and Publisher of the Year in 2010. This trifecta of titles underscores the breadth of his influence—and earning power—in the music business.
Business Ventures and Solo Projects
Launching Division1 Records was a strategic move that showcased Rico’s entrepreneurial mindset. Unlike many creatives who rely solely on performance income, Rico diversified by establishing a label that partnered with Universal Motown and later Interscope Records.
This venture allowed him to take a share of profits from the artists he signed and the albums they produced. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, the financial implications of label ownership are substantial.
As a solo artist, Rico also released albums like Turn the Lights On (2015) and Even Kings Die (2018). These projects, though not as commercially successful as his collaborative work, contributed to his overall wealth.
Singles like They Don’t Know charted on the Billboard Hot 100, adding to his revenue streams.
Lifestyle and Financial Philosophy
Rico Love resides in Miami, Florida, where he balances family life with his demanding career. His wife, Robin Thompson, and their two children are a central part of his life. This balance of personal and professional priorities is reflected in his financial decisions, which focus on long-term sustainability.
While his lifestyle includes the trappings of success—such as real estate and luxury items—he remains grounded in his artistic goals. Rico’s story is a testament to how talent and smart financial planning can coexist.
FAQs About Rico Love
Where was Rico Love born?
He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in Milwaukee and Harlem.
What are his most famous works?
His most iconic contributions include Beyoncé’s Sweet Dreams and Usher’s There Goes My Baby.
What is Division1 Records?
It is a record label founded by Rico Love, partnering with Universal Motown and Interscope Records.
Does he have any Grammy Awards?
Yes, Rico has won multiple Grammys for his contributions to Usher’s Confessions and Beyoncé’s I Am… Sasha Fierce.
Who are some of the artists Rico Love has worked with?
He has collaborated with Beyoncé, Nelly, Usher, Trey Songz, and Chris Brown, among others.
What genres does he specialize in?
He excels in R&B, hip-hop, pop, and dance music.
Is he involved in philanthropy?
Though not widely publicized, Rico has supported several initiatives, particularly those focused on music education.
Where does he live?
He lives in Miami, Florida, with his family.
Conclusion
Rico Love’s journey from humble beginnings to a $14 million net worth is inspiring. His strategic approach to music and business sets an example for aspiring artists. For more insights into the financial lives of celebrities, visit SingerFortune and join the discussion!
