How did a Vietnamese immigrant in Texas become the top diamond jewelry supplier for America’s biggest hip hop stars and entertainers?
Even if you aren’t a fan of diamonds, gold chains or hip hop, the story of how Johnny Dang went from repairing jewelry in a flea market to creating his own designer jewelry empire is the embodiment of the American dream, and inspiring for anyone with entrepreneurial dreams.
Johnny Dang in music and popular culture
Just search “Johnny Dang” on Genius’ lyrics database, and you’ll see his name mentioned in dozens of popular rap songs, from award winning artists like Migos, Gucci Mane, Lil Pump, Keith Ape, Chief Keef, and many more. Dang is said to be the inspiration behind Nelly’s 2006 hit song, “Grillz,” which was the top song on the Billboard charts in 2006. You can actually see Dang dancing around in the background of the video if you watch closely.
The Instagram page of Dang’s business, Johnny Dang & Co, is an endless stream of famous entertainers wearing Dang’s jewelry, hugging him like family, and showing off giant smiles of diamond encrusted grills as they visit his 16,000 square foot shop resembling a small palace. Kanye West, Jay Z, Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, Cardi B, Rick Ross, and dozens (if not hundreds) of other big names are all loyal clients of Dang. Some fans have even tattooed illustrations of Dang on their body.
Read more about how Johnny Dang became Rap’s favorite jeweler from Forbes contributor Heather R. Morgan on the Forbes website HERE
