NYC Mayor Still Earning Rap Music Royalties

Tax filings show Zohran Mamdani's modest income from past music career

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:52am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, high-contrast close-up photograph of a shiny, metallic gold record album cover reflecting a bright, dramatic studio spotlight, creating a high-fashion, glamorous aesthetic without any visible text or identifiable objects.The glitz and glamour of Mayor Mamdani's past rap career still generates modest royalties, even as he leads New York City.NYC Today

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who previously rapped under the names 'Young Cardamom' and 'Mr. Cardamom,' is still earning a small amount of royalties from his short-lived music career, according to his tax filings. The 34-year-old Democrat reported $1,643 in music royalties last year, up slightly from $1,267 in 2024.

Why it matters

Mamdani's continued music earnings highlight the sometimes surprising sources of income for high-profile politicians, even as their careers shift to public service. While modest, the royalties provide a glimpse into Mamdani's past as an indie rapper before entering politics.

The details

Mamdani began rapping in high school and released socially conscious songs in his 20s on subjects ranging from Indian flatbread to colonialism. He has described himself as a 'C-list rapper' following in the footsteps of his childhood heroes, including the indie-rap group Das Racist. In 2025, the bulk of Mamdani's income came from his $131,296 salary as a state Assembly member, with an additional $10,010 for his wife's graphic design work. As mayor, Mamdani is set to earn a salary of $258,750 this year.

  • Mamdani reported $1,643 in music royalties in 2025.
  • Mamdani reported $1,267 in music royalties in 2024.

The players

Zohran Mamdani

The 34-year-old Democratic mayor of New York City, who previously rapped under the names 'Young Cardamom' and 'Mr. Cardamom.'

Michael Bloomberg

The former mayor of New York City, who received between $2,000 and $10,000 in residuals from prior TV and movie appearances.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“A lot of people say they're listening. They're not listening.”

— Zohran Mamdani, Mayor of New York City

The takeaway

Mamdani's continued music earnings, though modest, provide a glimpse into his past as an indie rapper before entering politics. This highlights how high-profile politicians can sometimes have surprising sources of income, even as their careers shift to public service.