How did Coko transform her voice into a multi-million-dollar fortune? Known for her powerful vocals and soulful presence in SWV, she didn’t stop there.
Beyond the charts, she built a career in gospel music, collaborations, and live performances. This article dives into her financial story—highlighting her earnings, lifestyle, and career-defining choices that shaped Coko net worth in 2025.
Coko Quick Facts
FACT | DETAIL |
---|---|
Real Name | Cheryl Elizabeth Gamble |
Popular Name | Coko |
Birth Date | June 13, 1970 |
Age | 54 (as of 03/29/2025) |
Birthplace | The Bronx, New York |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | African-American |
Education | N/A |
Marital Status | Divorced |
Spouse | Mike “Big Mike” Clemons (2003–2018) |
Children | Jazz (Lil Tracy), Jalen Clemons (Jayye Michael) |
Dating | N/A |
Siblings | N/A |
Parents | Lady “Clyde” Tibba Gamble |
Height (meters) | N/A |
Net Worth | $10 million |
Source of Wealth | Music career, Gospel, Live performances, Collaborations |
What is the Net Worth Of Coko in 2025?
Coko’s estimated net worth in 2025 stands at $10 million. Her financial foundation comes from decades in the music industry, starting with SWV, her gospel career, solo projects, and collaborations with top artists.
While not as high-profile as some mainstream artists, her consistent work and loyal fanbase helped her maintain financial stability.
Compared to her contemporaries, she stands out for her genre-switching success and enduring influence. She’s earned her place among wealthy public figures in the music industry, even if she isn’t always in the spotlight.
Related Figures & Entities
- SWV
- RCA
- Will Smith
- Faith Evans
- Lil Tracy
- Tevin Campbell
- BET
- Israel & New Breed
- MC Lyte
- Hezekiah Walker
Coko Wealth, Salary and Financial Overview
How She Built Her Wealth Over the Years
Coko began singing at just three years old, and that early passion translated into a professional career that spans R&B, gospel, and live performances.
As the lead vocalist of SWV, she was central to the group’s success, contributing to their 25 million record sales worldwide.
She didn’t stop with SWV. Her solo projects and gospel career added new income streams. From her debut solo album Hot Coko to her critically acclaimed gospel record Grateful, she continued to evolve while building her brand.
What Are Her Main Sources of Income?
Coko’s sources of income include:
- Music royalties from SWV
- Solo albums
- Gospel performances
- Live concerts and tours
- Collaborations and features on major soundtracks
- Guest vocals with artists like Will Smith and Faith Evans
These activities make use of her talents across genres. From secular R&B to faith-driven gospel, she monetized her voice across markets. The shift to gospel, though less mainstream, still proved financially viable.
How Much Has She Earned from Her Time with SWV?
As part of SWV, Coko helped drive the group’s success with hits like “Right Here/Human Nature”. The trio’s multi-platinum debut album laid the foundation for their fortune.
Although exact earnings per member aren’t disclosed, Coko’s prominent role implies she earned a major share.
These facts underline her significant income during SWV’s golden years in the ‘90s.
How Her Solo Career Added to Her Finances
Coko’s solo career took off with Hot Coko in 1999. Though it didn’t match SWV’s commercial success, it established her as a standalone artist.
She followed this with Grateful—her first full gospel project—which charted at #5 on Billboard’s Independent Albums list.
This career pivot added a new audience and sustained her music sales into the 2000s and 2010s.
How Gospel Music Contributed to Her Financial Growth
Her transition to gospel music wasn’t just spiritual—it was strategic. Her album Grateful included collaborations with Faith Evans, Lil Mo, and Fantasia Barrino, broadening her audience.
Performances on platforms like BET’s Celebration of Gospel helped maintain relevance and revenue. Gospel music’s loyal fanbase, coupled with her faith-based appeal, secured consistent opportunities in a competitive industry.
Has She Made Money from Collaborations and Features?
Yes, significantly. Coko worked with big names like Will Smith (Men in Black), Tevin Campbell, Jon B., and MC Lyte. These features extended her visibility and likely earned her session and royalty income.
This type of collaborative work ensures a steady stream of earnings beyond her albums.
How Touring and Live Performances Boosted Her Income
Coko’s ability to perform live has always been a reliable income stream. From SWV reunions to solo gospel tours, her live performances in the U.S. and overseas (like Japan’s Billboard Live Tour) have reinforced her financial standing.
While not always mainstream, these shows provide regular income and reinforce her enduring appeal.
How Her Business Decisions Affected Her Earnings
Not all decisions paid off. Her second solo album with RCA was shelved due to internal label issues. However, her decision to pivot to gospel and maintain independence proved to be wise.
Leaving SWV when she felt underappreciated and reuniting on her terms allowed her to rebrand and reach new markets. These business decisions reflect strategic thinking beyond the stage.
What Role Did Her Personal Life Play in Her Financial Journey?
Her personal life intertwined with her financial choices. Marrying Mike Clemons, a gospel producer, led to both personal and professional collaborations. Their son Jalen Clemons, now known as Jayye Michael, is also pursuing music.
Her other son Jazz, known as Lil Tracy, reflects her influence extending to a younger musical generation.
Coko’s life experiences—from motherhood to divorce—have shaped her creative output and, in turn, her financial path.
Where She Lives and How Her Lifestyle Reflects Her Finances
Coko currently resides in Virginia Beach, a location aligned with a quieter, family-focused life. While not as flashy as Hollywood or Atlanta, this choice suggests stability and financial prudence.
She lives comfortably but not extravagantly, emphasizing values over celebrity flash.
What Is Known About Her Current Financial Status?
Though not regularly making headlines, Coko remains financially sound. With consistent income from music royalties, selective performances, and her sons entering the entertainment space, her future looks stable.
She might not be the loudest voice in the room, but she has proven that long-term consistency can lead to lasting wealth.
Conclusion
PBC hopes you enjoyed exploring Coko’s financial journey. Like, comment, or share this post—or check out more celebrity finance stories on Pennbookcenter.com.