Status-seeking, essentially. Gang leaders are very high status in some circles, dealing drugs through gangs is a necessary part of becoming one. Of course actually becoming a gang leader is extremely unlikely, but then there aren't many self-described rationalists who deal crack.

Yeah. They say that there's a slim chance of becoming a successful drug dealer and making tons of money, so people see those guys and try to be like them.

For what it's worth, I imagine that being a suburban weed dealer is an entirely different ball game. OP might want to look into that.

See, i see that question and assume the answer is probably extreme poverty and inability to make money any other way.