Key Glock is not just another Southern rapper with a gritty flow, he’s a symbol of resilience, independence, and modern hip-hop hustle. Born and raised in South Memphis, Tennessee, his music reflects a journey built on pain, ambition, and street wisdom. As of 2025, Key Glock’s net worth is estimated at $8 million, and he’s still on the rise.
But how exactly did he get here? From mixtapes to Billboard charts, from Lamborghinis to real estate deals, Key Glock has built his fortune piece by piece. Let’s break down his life story, income streams, career milestones, lifestyle choices, and what the future holds for this Memphis powerhouse.
Who is Key Glock?
Key Glock, born Markeyvius LaShun Cathey, is an American rapper and songwriter known for his hard-hitting solo work and his close affiliation with the late rapper Young Dolph. He is signed to Paper Route Empire (PRE), the independent label that has become synonymous with the Memphis rap scene.
While many artists get their start with viral gimmicks or major label pushes, Key Glock built his brand on grit, consistency, and authenticity. He first captured attention in 2017 with his mixtape Glock Season, and over the years, he’s dropped multiple charting projects, toured worldwide, and cultivated one of the most loyal fanbases in Southern hip-hop.
Key Glock Biography Table
| Full Name | Markeyvius LaShun Cathey |
| Stage Name | Key Glock |
| Date of Birth | August 3, 1997 |
| Age (2025) | 27 years old |
| Birthplace | Memphis, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Rapper, Songwriter |
| Genres | Hip-Hop, Trap |
| Years Active | 2016–present |
| Record Label | Paper Route Empire (PRE) |
| Associated Acts | Young Dolph, Gucci Mane |
| Estimated Net Worth (2025) | $8 million |
Early Life: Growing Up in South Memphis
Childhood and Family Dynamics
Key Glock’s story starts in the heart of South Memphis, a neighborhood known for its raw energy, cultural richness, and socioeconomic challenges. Born into a broken household, Glock was raised without his father and spent much of his youth under the care of his grandmother and aunt, while his mother dealt with legal troubles and incarceration.
These difficult circumstances shaped his outlook early. The absence of parental guidance forced him to mature quickly. He often describes himself as self-raised, a trait reflected in his music and public persona.
Early Influences and Dreams
Growing up, Glock found solace and inspiration in the music of local legends like Three 6 Mafia, Project Pat, and Yo Gotti. He didn’t just listen, he studied. Lyrics, flows, delivery, he dissected everything. By the time he was a teenager, he was already writing his own rhymes and crafting his sound.
His life was no fairy tale. Glock had run-ins with the streets and brushes with danger. These experiences didn’t break him; they fueled his storytelling, giving his lyrics a raw edge that resonates with fans who know what survival looks like.
Education and Street Knowledge
High School Experience
Key Glock attended Hamilton High School in Memphis, a tough inner-city school that mirrored the struggles of the neighborhood around it. While school wasn’t his main focus, he managed to graduate, a testament to his determination.
He never pursued college. For Glock, the music grind was a full-time calling. He knew that the path he wanted to walk wasn’t going to be paved in textbooks, but in studio sessions and late-night writing marathons.
Life Lessons from the Streets
Key Glock didn’t go to college, but he learned a lot from the streets where he grew up. Life in South Memphis was hard, but it taught him how to be smart, strong, and careful. These lessons helped him succeed in the music world, where things can be tough and unfair.
He learned that you can’t trust everyone, and it’s important to be loyal and stay true to yourself. Instead of waiting for someone to help him, he worked hard and made his own way. The streets taught him how to make good choices, stay safe, and use money wisely.
Now, everything he learned helps him in his music and business. The hard times made him stronger, and that’s why he’s doing so well today.
Music Career: From Local Star to National Name
Career Launch: Glock Season (2017)
Key Glock burst onto the scene in 2017 with his debut mixtape, Glock Season. Released under Paper Route Empire, the tape introduced fans to his signature cadence, punchy hooks, and confident delivery. It wasn’t long before Memphis and the South took notice. Glock Season laid the foundation for what would become a consistent rise to rap relevance.
Collaborating With Young Dolph: Dum and Dummer (2019)
The real game-changer came in 2019 with the release of Dum and Dummer, a collaborative album with his mentor and cousin Young Dolph. The album debuted at No. 8 on the Billboard 200, and tracks like “Water on Water on Water” and “Baby Joker” helped cement Key Glock’s national status.
Unlike many protégés, Glock didn’t get overshadowed. His chemistry with Dolph was undeniable, but his solo presence stood strong, proving he could carry projects on his own.
Going Solo: Post-Dolph Era
Tragedy struck in November 2021 when Young Dolph was fatally shot in Memphis. The loss was deeply personal for Key Glock. But instead of fading, he stepped up. He honored Dolph through music, speeches, and continued his mission with Paper Route Empire.
Solo projects like Yellow Tape 2 and Glockoma 2 showcased growth, emotional depth, and a more refined version of Glock’s sound.
Major Income Sources
Key Glock has built many ways to make money, which is impressive for an artist who is fully independent. He doesn’t rely on big record labels, he controls his career and keeps more of his earnings. Here’s how he makes most of his money:
1. Music Sales and Streaming
Key Glock earns a big part of his income from music streaming. He has millions of monthly listeners on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Every time a fan plays his song, he gets paid a small amount, and with millions of plays, that adds up fast.
His old albums and mixtapes still get a lot of attention, showing that his music has lasting power. Songs like “Ambition for Cash” and “Mr. Glock” continue to do well. Plus, since he’s independent, he keeps a larger share of the streaming money than most artists.
Extra income tip: He also makes money when fans buy his albums or songs on platforms like iTunes or Bandcamp.
2. Live Performances and Touring
Touring is one of Key Glock’s biggest money-makers. He often performs at major festivals like Rolling Loud, SXSW, and Wireless Festival, and he also does his own headlining tours. In 2025, his shows in Europe, Canada, and the U.S. were very successful.
He earns between $30,000 to $60,000 per show, depending on the size of the event. With sold-out concerts and loyal fans in every city, this income adds up quickly. Touring also helps him connect with fans, sell merch, and build his brand even more.
Bonus: VIP meet-and-greets and backstage passes bring in even more income.
3. Merchandising
Key Glock runs popular merchandise lines under Paper Route Empire (PRE) and his personal brand like Glockoma. His merch includes T-shirts, hoodies, hats, and accessories, often featuring bold designs and slogans that reflect his music and personality.
Young fans, especially from Gen Z, love buying and wearing his gear. His merch drops often sell out quickly, and he promotes them through Instagram and his music videos. Because it’s his own brand, he earns more profit per sale.
Extra line: He plans to expand his merch collection soon, possibly including sneakers or special edition items.
4. Brand Endorsements and Deals
Even though Glock doesn’t act like a typical celebrity influencer, he’s still made smart deals with fashion and streetwear companies that match his style. These are not giant brands, but smaller, cool labels that his fans respect.
He’s been seen wearing exclusive designer pieces, and he often promotes local or underground brands. This helps both him and the companies, he earns money from deals, and they get exposure to his fanbase.
Fun fact: Because Glock stays true to himself, brands like working with him for his real, authentic image.
5. Real Estate and Investments
Key Glock has quietly started building long-term wealth by investing in real estate. He’s purchased several properties in Memphis and Atlanta, and may even own rental homes or business spaces. Real estate gives him steady income and future value.
He’s also looking into trucking and logistics, which is a smart move many rappers are making now. This business earns money even when he’s not making music.
Extra insight: By spreading his money across different businesses, Glock is securing his future, even if the music stops one day, his income won’t.
Personal Life: The Man Behind the Mic
Relationship Status
Despite his fame, Key Glock keeps his romantic life private. As of 2025, there are no confirmed relationships or public girlfriends. Fans occasionally speculate based on social media posts, but Glock rarely responds or confirms rumors. His focus remains on business and music.
Family Loyalty and the Dolph Legacy
The loss of Young Dolph marked a turning point in Glock’s life and career. Since then, he’s honored Dolph’s legacy by taking a leadership role at Paper Route Empire, mentoring younger artists and continuing the independent grind.
Glock also remains close with the family members who raised him, especially his aunt and grandmother, who he credits for keeping him grounded.
Lifestyle: Cars, Fashion, and More
Glock isn’t shy about enjoying the fruits of his labor. His Instagram is filled with photos of:
- Custom Lamborghinis
- Bright yellow Corvettes
- Luxury watches and chains
- Designer streetwear (Balenciaga, Chrome Hearts, Amiri)
But he’s no reckless spender. He often talks about money management and investing smart, stressing the importance of independence and control.
Recent Projects and 2025 Highlights
Albums and New Releases
In 2025, Key Glock teased a new solo album expected to drop late in the year. He’s already released singles featuring Moneybagg Yo and NLE Choppa, blending Memphis unity with mainstream appeal.
Performances and Appearances
This year, Glock performed at:
- Rolling Loud Miami
- BET Hip Hop Awards 2025
- European tour stops in Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands
What’s Next? Future Plans and Business Moves
Key Glock isn’t slowing down, in fact, he’s just getting started. Here’s what’s in store:
- Launching his own label imprint under Paper Route Empire to develop new talent
- Venturing into acting, with rumors of a cameo in an upcoming Netflix crime drama
- More international tours, with planned stops in Asia and Africa
- Memoir in the works? He’s hinted at telling his full story in a book or documentary
Key Glock’s Net Worth in 2025: The $8 Million Hustle
Yearly Net Worth Growth
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
| 2020 | $1.5 million |
| 2021 | $2.3 million |
| 2022 | $3.8 million |
| 2023 | $5.0 million |
| 2024 | $6.2 million |
| 2025 | $8.0 million |
Public Image, Social Media & Fanbase
Active Platforms:
| Profile | Link |
|---|---|
| Wikipedia | Click Here |
| Youtube | Click Here |
| Click Here | |
| Pintrest | Click Here |
Fan Reactions
Fans admire Glock’s consistency, independence, and authenticity. He’s often praised for avoiding clout-chasing or unnecessary beef. His loyalty to Dolph and commitment to Paper Route Empire have only deepened fan respect.
Legacy: Why Key Glock Matters
Key Glock will be remembered as:
- A leader of Memphis’ new rap wave
- A loyal protégé who carried Young Dolph’s torch
- A self-made millionaire who proved independence still works
- A lyrical storyteller rooted in real-life struggle
Conclusion: Key Glock’s Rise is Still Unfolding
Key Glock’s journey from troubled streets to Billboard charts is not just about money—it’s about purpose. He took the chaos of his youth and turned it into creative energy. He honored his cousin’s legacy without becoming a copy. And he made millions while staying 100% independent.
With a net worth of $8 million in 2025, Key Glock isn’t finished. He’s still building. Still grinding. Still representing Memphis. And if his hustle so far is any indication, his best days are yet to come.
FAQs About Key Glock
Is Key Glock Married?
No, Key Glock is not married and keeps his dating life extremely private.
What is Key Glock Doing in 2025?
He’s touring globally, working on a new solo album, and expanding his role at Paper Route Empire.
How Much is Key Glock Worth in 2025?
An estimated $8 million, thanks to music sales, tours, merchandise, and real estate.
Is He Still Signed to Paper Route Empire?
Yes, and he’s also helping lead the label after the passing of Young Dolph.
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