Soulja Boy’s ongoing legal issues have revealed new details about his money situation.
The 34-year-old rapper — whose real name is DeAndre Cortez Way — was found responsible Thursday in a civil case brought by his former assistant. The woman accused Soulja of assault, sexual battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress during their two-year working relationship. The jury awarded her more than $4 million in compensatory damages.
Just before the verdict came down, the Chicago-born artist took the stand and faced questions about his finances. Legal reporter Meghann Cuniff wrote that when a lawyer asked Soulja Boy if he was worth $100 million, the rapper just laughed.
“Daaaamn,” Soulja Boy reportedly shot back. “Look, I don’t want to get y’all confused here in this courtroom.”
Soulja Boy also got grilled about his ownership of “Crank That,” his mega-hit 2007 debut single. He told the court he receives royalties from the track but couldn’t give a specific amount. The plaintiff’s attorney then brought up Soulja Boy’s previous statements about his “Crank That” royalties, asking if it really brought in $15 million to $20 million.
“I’m not sure,” he replied.
“I’m pretty sure I hear your music when I go to a baseball game,” the lawyer pointed out.
While Soulja Boy admitted his music was popular, he claimed the lawsuit had already drained his finances badly (even before the $4 million judgment was announced).
“This trial has taken a lot of my money,” he said. “As far as lawyer bills. This whole trial’s been real costly.”
Soulja Boy stated he doesn’t have health insurance and said the plaintiff’s allegations have resulted in numerous canceled bookings, including a slot at Coachella.
The rapper spoke about the verdict outside the courthouse, indicating the legal fight wasn’t finished.
“I want to make it clear that I’m innocent,” he stated, according to Courthouse News Service. “I am committed to filing an appeal and fighting for the truth to be revealed.”
He also complained about the plaintiff remaining anonymous, claiming it put him at a disadvantage.
“Keeping these individuals anonymous while I’m forced to face public scrutiny creates an unequal playing field,” he said. “I believe this entire process has been tainted by a system that is not designed to protect the rights of the accused.”
