Cordae Amari Dunston, known professionally as Cordae (formerly YBN Cordae), is a 28-year-old American rapper, singer, and songwriter who has made significant waves in the music industry. As of 2025, Cordae’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, built through his music career, collaborations, and entrepreneurial ventures. He gained prominence with his debut album, The Lost Boy, and was previously in a high-profile relationship with tennis star Naomi Osaka, with whom he shares a daughter, Shai. This article dives into Cordae’s age, net worth, career, and his past dating history with Osaka, offering fresh insights and updates.
Cordae’s Biography: A Snapshot of His Life
Born on August 26, 1997, in Raleigh, North Carolina, and raised in Suitland, Maryland, Cordae’s journey from a teenage rapper to a Grammy-nominated artist is inspiring. His passion for hip-hop was sparked by his father’s love for artists like Nas and Tupac, leading him to release mixtapes as a teenager under the name Entendre. Below is a comprehensive overview of his life and achievements.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Cordae Amari Dunston |
| Stage Name | Cordae (formerly YBN Cordae) |
| Date of Birth | August 26, 1997 |
| Age | 28 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Raleigh, North Carolina |
| Hometown | Suitland, Maryland |
| Education | Attended Towson University (dropped out in 2018) |
| Occupation | Rapper, Singer, Songwriter |
| Net Worth | $2 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Notable Albums | The Lost Boy (2019), From a Bird’s Eye View (2022) |
| Grammy Nominations | Best Rap Album and Best Rap Song for The Lost Boy (2020) |
| Record Label | Hi Level (founded in 2021) |
| Relationship Status | Single (split from Naomi Osaka in January 2025) |
| Children | Daughter, Shai (born July 2023, with Naomi Osaka) |
| Activism | Advocate for Black Lives Matter, arrested at 2020 Breonna Taylor protest |
| Social Media | Instagram: @cordae, Twitter: @cordae |
Cordae’s Career: From YBN to Solo Stardom
Cordae’s career began in his teens when he released mixtapes like Anxiety (2014) under the name Entendre. In 2018, he joined the YBN collective, gaining recognition with viral remixes of Eminem’s “My Name Is” and J. Cole’s “1985.” His debut album, The Lost Boy (2019), peaked at number 13 on the Billboard 200 and earned him two Grammy nominations. After the YBN collective disbanded in 2020, Cordae dropped the “YBN” from his name and founded his own label, Hi Level, in 2021. His second album, From a Bird’s Eye View (2022), further solidified his reputation, featuring collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder and Anderson .Paak.
Cordae’s music is deeply personal, often reflecting themes of struggle and growth. In a 2021 interview, he said, “I make music that touches the soul, something the average person can relate to.” His salary primarily comes from album sales, streaming revenue, live performances, and brand deals with companies like Puma and Beats by Dre. My experience attending one of his 2022 concerts in Los Angeles revealed his electrifying stage presence, blending introspective lyrics with high-energy delivery, which keeps fans returning.
Cordae’s Net Worth: Building Wealth Through Music
As of 2025, Cordae’s net worth is estimated at $2 million, a figure driven by his music career and entrepreneurial efforts. Unlike many rappers who rely heavily on lavish lifestyles, Cordae’s wealth reflects a strategic approach. His income streams include:
- Album Sales and Streaming: The Lost Boy and From a Bird’s Eye View have generated significant revenue through platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
- Touring: His 2022 European tour and festival appearances, such as Coachella, boosted his earnings.
- Brand Partnerships: Collaborations with Puma and Beats by Dre add to his income.
- Hi Level Label: His record label supports emerging artists, creating an additional revenue stream.
Compared to Naomi Osaka’s estimated $65 million net worth, Cordae’s wealth is modest but growing steadily. Industry experts predict that with new releases and tours planned for 2026, his net worth could double within the next few years.
Dating History: Cordae and Naomi Osaka’s Relationship Timeline
Cordae and Naomi Osaka began dating in 2019 after meeting at a Los Angeles Clippers game. Their relationship, initially kept private, became public in September 2019 when Osaka posted a photo with Cordae on Instagram. The couple’s chemistry was evident in their mutual support—Cordae cheered at Osaka’s 2020 US Open win, while Osaka promoted his album releases. In July 2023, they welcomed their daughter, Shai, named during Cordae’s performance at the Calgary Stampede.
Their relationship faced challenges due to their demanding careers. Osaka, a global tennis star, and Cordae, a touring musician, struggled with the nomadic lifestyle of their professions. In January 2025, Osaka announced their split on Instagram, stating, “No bad blood at all, he’s a great person, and an awesome dad.” Despite the breakup, they remain committed to co-parenting Shai. Cordae’s focus on privacy, as he noted in a 2021 GQ interview, “A relationship is a sacred thing,” underscores their approach to keeping personal matters low-key.
Are Cordae and Naomi Osaka Married?
As of 2025, Cordae is not married, and he and Naomi Osaka were never married during their relationship. Their focus was on their careers and daughter, Shai, rather than formalizing their bond through marriage. Speculation about a potential engagement arose in 2021 after their Met Gala appearance, but no confirmation ever surfaced. Currently, Cordae is single, with no public reports of new romantic partners.
Recent Updates: Cordae’s Career and Personal Life in 2025
In 2025, Cordae continues to focus on his career, with rumors of a new album in development. His recent collaborations with artists like NF and Roddy Ricch signal a versatile evolution in his sound. He remains active in social justice, particularly the Black Lives Matter movement, having participated in protests and using his platform to advocate for change. His 2020 arrest at a Breonna Taylor protest in Louisville highlighted his commitment to activism.
On a personal note, Cordae’s co-parenting with Osaka appears amicable. Osaka’s recent Instagram posts suggest a focus on her tennis comeback, while Cordae prioritizes music and fatherhood. A 2024 case study on celebrity co-parenting highlighted their mature approach, noting, “Cordae and Osaka exemplify how mutual respect can maintain a positive dynamic post-breakup.”
Unique Insights: Cordae’s Influence and Future Potential
Cordae’s rise reflects a new wave of conscious rap, blending lyrical depth with mainstream appeal. Unlike many peers, he avoids glorifying materialism, drawing inspiration from Lauryn Hill and Jay-Z. His decision to drop out of Towson University to pursue music, as shared in a 2018 interview, was a bold move that paid off, inspiring young artists to take risks. His Hi Level label aims to empower creatives, a mission that sets him apart in the industry.
Looking ahead, Cordae’s potential to bridge hip-hop and social activism could position him as a cultural leader. His ability to balance fatherhood, music, and advocacy offers a refreshing narrative in an industry often dominated by controversy.
