Andrew Ridgeley, a British musician and former member of the iconic band Wham!, best known for his role in creating timeless hits like Careless Whisper. Andrew Ridgeley net worth reflects his lasting influence on both the music world and his diversified financial success.
This article delves into the key sources of his income, from royalties and solo ventures to business investments and his memoir.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Popular Name | Andrew Ridgeley |
| Net Worth | $40 million |
| Salary | N/A |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1963 |
| Birthplace | Windlesham, Surrey, England |
| Gender | Male |
| Height | 1.82 m |
| Parents | Jennifer Jill, Alberto Ridgeley |
| Siblings | Paul Ridgeley |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Wife/Spouse | N/A |
| Dating | Keren Woodward (1990-2017), Amanda Cronin (2022-2023) |
| Children | N/A |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Profession | Record Producer, Singer-songwriter, Composer, Guitarist, Writer, Environmentalist |
| Nationality | English |
What is Andrew Ridgeley Net Worth in 2024?
In 2024, Andrew Ridgeley net worth is estimated at $40 million, a fortune amassed from music royalties, high-profile performances, and various business ventures.
His financial success places him among other prominent figures in music:
- George Michael: Estimated net worth of $200 million at the time of his passing.
- Bananarama (Keren Woodward): Estimated net worth of $10 million.
- Elton John: Estimated net worth of $650 million.
These figures highlight Andrew Ridgeley’s considerable wealth, both as a co-founder of Wham! and as a solo artist.
Don’t forget to read more information about your idols at Singers!
Andrew Ridgeley Early Life
Born on January 26, 1963, in Windlesham, Surrey, England, Andrew Ridgeley’s early life set the stage for his musical aspirations. His mother, Jennifer, was a schoolteacher, and his father, Alberto, worked for Canon.
Raised in Bushey, Hertfordshire, he attended Bushey Meads School, where he met his lifelong friend and future bandmate, George Michael. The two formed a close bond, performing together in various bands even before the formation of Wham!.
His family background was diverse, with his mother having Scottish roots, and his father having Italian and Egyptian heritage. This multicultural upbringing likely shaped his global perspective, which would later be reflected in Wham!’s success, including being one of the first Western pop groups to perform in China.
This blend of personal and cultural influences played a significant role in his career and continued to influence his journey in the music industry.
Andrew Ridgeley Finance Overview
Wham!
Andrew Ridgeley’s wealth began with Wham!, the duo he formed with George Michael. Hits like Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, Everything She Wants, and Last Christmas became global anthems, generating ongoing royalties.
Wham!’s success, including 30 million albums sold worldwide, resulted in significant financial rewards.
Iconic Hits
One of the key contributors to his fortune comes from royalties, particularly from Careless Whisper, a song he co-wrote with George Michael. This track continues to generate millions in royalties and remains one of the best-selling singles of all time.
The ongoing income from this and other Wham! hits has ensured that his wealth remains stable long after the band’s breakup.
Landmark Concerts and Milestone Performances
Wham!’s performances were a crucial part of his rise in the pop music world. In 1985, the band made history by performing in China, marking a monumental moment as one of the first Western pop groups to do so.
Their performance at Live Aid that same year further boosted their public recognition, expanding their global audience and, by extension, increasing Andrew Ridgeley’s earnings.
Solo Ventures
After Wham! disbanded, he embarked on a solo music career, releasing his album Son of Albert. Although it did not achieve the commercial success of his work with Wham!, it contributed to his personal and artistic growth.
He has also appeared in various media, including a cameo in the 2019 film Last Christmas, which featured Wham! and George Michael songs. His involvement in the 2023 Netflix documentary Wham! revived interest in his legacy and added to his financial portfolio.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
Beyond music, Andrew Ridgeley net worth grew through business ventures like Bar 92, a restaurant in England, and occasional endorsements, ensuring a well-rounded financial portfolio.
Memoir and Financial Success
In 2019, he released his memoir, Wham! George Michael & Me, which provided fans with a deeper look into his relationship with George Michael and his experiences in Wham!. The book was well-received and contributed both to his wealth and to renewed public interest in his career.
Charity Work and Financial Contributions
He has used his wealth to support charitable causes, including participating in the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, a bike ride supporting youth empowerment. His charity work has boosted his public image and connected him to a wider community, adding purpose to his financial success.
Andrew Ridgeley Personal Life
Andrew Ridgeley’s personal life has often been intertwined with his public persona. He was in a long-term relationship with Keren Woodward of Bananarama for over 25 years, starting in 1990.
The couple lived together in Wadebridge, Cornwall, in a restored 15th-century barn. They remained close even after their relationship ended, which speaks to his ability to balance fame with personal connection.
He has also spoken emotionally about his friendship with George Michael, who passed away in 2016. Their bond was deeply meaningful to him, and he honored Michael’s memory during the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction, marking the enduring strength of their relationship.
Follow him on social media platforms to stay updated with the latest news and updates about him:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewjohnridgeley/
FAQs about Andrew Ridgeley
What are some of Andrew Ridgeley’s most famous Wham! songs?
Some of his famous songs from Wham! include Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, Everything She Wants, and Careless Whisper, which continues to earn significant royalties.
Did he perform in the landmark 1985 concert in China?
Yes, he and George Michael made history by performing in China in 1985, becoming the first Western pop group to perform there.
What solo projects has Andrew Ridgeley pursued since Wham! disbanded?
After Wham!, he released a solo album Son of Albert, authored Wham! George Michael & Me, and appeared in the 2023 Netflix documentary Wham!
Has he been involved in charity?
He has actively participated in charity, notably through the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, a charity bike ride that benefits Dallaglio Rugby Works.
How does Andrew Ridgeley continue to earn income from Wham!?
He continues to earn royalties from Wham!’s hits, particularly from Careless Whisper, which he co-wrote with George Michael.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley net worth and legacy are testament to his talent, hard work, and ability to adapt to various ventures, both in and outside the music industry.
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