Andrew Ridgeley net worth is a topic of growing interest. Known for his role in Wham! alongside George Michael, he has built a financial legacy through music and other ventures.
In this article, we’ll uncover how Ridgeley’s earnings, including royalties from iconic hits, continue to contribute to his wealth today. Written by Ando Money.
Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Andrew John Ridgeley |
| Popular Name | Andrew Ridgeley |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | January 26, 1963 |
| Age | 61 |
| Parents | Jennifer Jill, Alberto Mario |
| Siblings | Paul Ridgeley |
| Birthplace | Windlesham, Surrey, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | English, Scottish, Italian, Egyptian |
| Education | Bushey Meads School |
| Marital Status | N/A |
| Spouse | N/A |
| Children | N/A |
| Dating | Amanda Cronin (separated 2023) |
| Net Worth | $40 million |
| Source of Wealth | Music, Royalties, Investments |
| Height | N/A |
What is the Net Worth of Andrew Ridgeley in 2024?
As of 2024, Andrew Ridgeley’s net worth is estimated at $40 million, primarily built through his work with Wham! and royalties from hit songs like Careless Whisper.
Compared to other prominent figures in the music industry, his fortune holds strong, particularly due to his ongoing earnings from Wham!’s success. Here’s how Ridgeley stacks up alongside others in his field:
- George Michael
- Elton John
- Paul McCartney
- Keren Woodward
- Bananarama
- Madonna
- Duran Duran
- Elton John
- Amanda Cronin
- Kiki Dee
To see how Ridgeley compares with others, check out some of the top-earning artists on our richest singers page.
Andrew Ridgeley Salary and Finance Overview
How He Built His Fortune Through Music and Collaborations
Andrew Ridgeley’s path to wealth started with his role as a founding member of Wham!. Alongside George Michael, Ridgeley co-wrote and performed on some of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, including Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and Careless Whisper.
Though Ridgeley was often seen as the quieter member of the duo, his contribution to the band’s success was significant.
One of Ridgeley’s major financial contributions was co-writing Careless Whisper, a song that has sold millions of copies worldwide.
His role in crafting the chord progression earned him millions in royalties, which continue to add to his wealth today.
Wham!’s albums, particularly Make It Big, have sold over 35 million copies, creating a long-lasting stream of income for Ridgeley.
Earnings From Wham! and Post-Wham! Ventures
Following Wham!’s dissolution in 1986, Ridgeley explored various ventures.
Wham! sold millions of records, and Ridgeley’s share of those profits, along with performance royalties, provided a solid foundation for his wealth.
After the breakup, he briefly ventured into Formula Three motor racing and moved to Los Angeles to try his hand at acting.
However, neither path was as financially successful as his music career. He eventually returned to the UK and released a solo album, Son of Albert in 1990.
While the album didn’t achieve commercial success, it helped sustain his presence in the entertainment industry.
Royalties From Iconic Songs
Andrew Ridgeley’s biggest financial windfall has come from royalties. Co-writing credits on Wham! songs like Careless Whisper have generated millions in earnings over the years.
Careless Whisper, in particular, has earned him over $10 million in royalties since its release.
Other tracks such as Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go and Everything She Wants have also contributed to Ridgeley’s financial success through continuous airplay and licensing.
His ongoing royalty streams, paired with occasional appearances and his memoir releases, ensure that his wealth remains stable and growing.
His Business Ventures Outside Music
In addition to his music, Andrew Ridgeley explored business ventures. Most notably, he opened a restaurant called Bar 92 in England.
While not much is publicly known about the success of this business, it reflects his desire to diversify his income streams beyond music.
His Memoir and Publishing Success
In 2019, Ridgeley published his memoir, Wham! George & Me, which offered fans an intimate look into his relationship with George Michael and their experiences in Wham!.
The book was well-received, adding to his reputation and contributing financially through book sales.
His memoir also helped bring him back into the public eye, reinforcing his financial and professional standing.
In 2023, Ridgeley also featured in the Netflix documentary Wham!, which explored the band’s rise to fame.
His involvement in the film further cements his legacy and provides additional income through streaming rights and appearances.
Awards and Recognition Contributing to His Legacy
Throughout his career, he has received multiple accolades that have indirectly contributed to his wealth.
Wham! earned two Grammy nominations and several Brit Awards, including British Group and Outstanding Contribution to Music.
These accolades not only boosted his reputation but also helped elevate Wham!’s legacy, ensuring that the music continues to generate income through royalties and streams.
Charity Work and Contributions to Society
Beyond his financial success, Ridgeley has also participated in various charity efforts.
His involvement in the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, a charity bike ride, highlights his dedication to giving back to society
This event helps young people through the support of rugby programs, showcasing Ridgeley’s broader impact beyond just the music industry.
FAQs About Andrew Ridgeley
How Did He Get Involved in Music?
He met George Michael in school, and they quickly bonded over their shared passion for music. They eventually formed Wham! and found success worldwide.
What Is His Role in Wham!?
Ridgeley played guitar, provided backup vocals, and co-wrote songs in Wham!. His contributions to hits like Careless Whisper significantly impacted the band’s success.
Has He Released Any Solo Albums?
Yes, Ridgeley released a solo album, Son of Albert, in 1990. However, it did not achieve significant commercial success compared to his work with Wham!.
What Business Ventures Has He Explored?
Outside of music, Ridgeley opened Bar 92, a restaurant in England. He has also pursued ventures in racing and acting but found limited success in these fields.
How Much Does He Earn From Royalties?
Ridgeley continues to earn substantial royalties from songs like Careless Whisper and other Wham! hits. The royalties from Careless Whisper alone have earned him over $10 million.
Is He Involved in Any Charity Work?
Yes, Ridgeley has participated in the Dallaglio Cycle Slam, a charity bike ride benefiting young people through rugby programs.
Has He Written a Memoir?
Yes, Ridgeley released a memoir titled Wham! George & Me in 2019, where he shared personal stories about his time in Wham! and his friendship with George Michael.
Did He Pursue a Racing Career?
After Wham!, Ridgeley briefly pursued Formula Three motor racing but did not achieve significant success in the sport.
Conclusion
Andrew Ridgeley’s financial journey, from his Wham! days to his business ventures and royalties, shows the lasting impact of music on wealth-building.
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