NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Earns Modest Rap Royalties, Tax Filings Reveal
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani continues to earn income from his previous career as a rapper, according to recently released tax filings. The documents show that the 34-year-old Democrat received $1,643 in music royalties in 2025, a slight increase from $1,267 in 2024. Mamdani, who performed under the names Young Cardamom and Mr. Cardamom, joked about the modest earnings, suggesting supporters stream his music on Spotify if they wish to boost his income. The majority of his reported income came from his $131,296 salary as a state Assembly member, with his wife contributing additional earnings from graphic design work. Their total joint income was approximately $145,000. As mayor, Mamdani is set to earn a significantly higher salary of $258,750. The article notes that he is not the first NYC mayor to receive entertainment royalties, citing Michael Bloomberg’s past residuals from television and film appearances. This revelation highlights the unique background of Mamdani, who describes himself as a C-list rapper influenced by indie groups like Das Racist, blending his artistic past with his current political role.
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NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani Earns Modest Rap Royalties, Tax Filings Reveal
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani continues to earn income from his previous career as a rapper, according to recently released tax filings. The documents show that the 34-year-old Democrat received $1,643 in music royalties in 2025, a slight increase from $1,267 in 2024. Mamdani, who performed under the names Young Cardamom and Mr. Cardamom, joked about the modest earnings, suggesting supporters stream his music on Spotify if they wish to boost his income. The majority of his reported income came from his $131,296 salary as a state Assembly member, with his wife contributing additional earnings from graphic design work. Their total joint income was approximately $145,000. As mayor, Mamdani is set to earn a significantly higher salary of $258,750. The article notes that he is not the first NYC mayor to receive entertainment royalties, citing Michael Bloomberg’s past residuals from television and film appearances. This revelation highlights the unique background of Mamdani, who describes himself as a C-list rapper influenced by indie groups like Das Racist, blending his artistic past with his current political role.
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