Shock rappers the Insane Clown Posse might rank among the most critically reviled musical acts in recent memory, but they couldn't care less what any of us think. They have amassed a small empire around their name, including chart-topping albums, a record label, wrestling exhibitions, action figures, T-shirts, feature length motion pictures and an annual festival. The Detroit Free Press reports that Violent J and Shaggy 2 Dope pull in up to $10 million each year through various ICP-related ventures. What recession?

If a team of gangsta rappers in clown makeup can parlay their marginal talents into a multi-million dollar franchise without much aid from radio or television, why is your favorite independent rapper struggling to make ends meet? [Detroit Free Press]