Unveiling the Astonishing Merry Clayton Net Worth: The Inspiring Rags to Riches Journey You Need to Know!
Introduction
Merry Clayton is a household name in the music industry. She has been singing from a young age and has worked with several famous musicians, including Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and Neil Young. Her most memorable work, however, is as a backup singer on The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter.” Clayton’s sultry and powerful voice made her the MVP of that legendary track. Despite her critical role in that song, not much was known about her life behind the scenes. This blog post aims to explore the inspiring rags to riches journey of Merry Clayton and unveil her astonishing net worth.
Merry Clayton’s Early Life
Merry Clayton was born on December 25, 1948, in New Orleans. Her family moved to Los Angeles when she was a child, and it was then that she started singing in her local church. She was only 14 when she recorded her first album. Clayton’s family was poor, and like most black families in Los Angeles, they lived in a low-income neighborhood. Despite living in poverty, Clayton developed a love for music, which would later change her life.
Clayton’s Career Breakthrough
In the early 1960s, Merry Clayton recorded “The Shoop Shoop Song (It’s in His Kiss),” which became a hit. She recorded several other hits in the 1960s and went on tour with Ray Charles. In 1969, Clayton was asked to sing on The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter.” Her performance on the track was so gripping that it became an instant classic. This track was a turning point in Clayton’s career, and from then on, she became one of the most sought-after backup singers in the industry.
The Accident
In 2014, Merry Clayton was involved in a severe accident that almost cost her life. She lost both her legs due to the accident and had to undergo extensive rehabilitation. However, she did not let this setback slow her down and continued to work on her music.
Clayton’s Solo Career
Merry Clayton’s solo career was slow to take off, but she released an album in 1970 titled “Gimme Shelter.” In 2013, Clayton released her latest and final album titled “Beautiful Scars.” The album showcased her powerful voice and earned her critical acclaim. In her solo career, she collaborated with many other musicians, including Joe Cocker, Paul McCartney, and Carole King.
Merry Clayton’s Net Worth
Merry Clayton’s net worth is estimated at $4 million. She earned most of her fortune through her long and successful career as a backup singer. Although she was not as commercially successful as some of her colleagues, Clayton’s talent and contributions to the music industry cannot be ignored.
Clayton’s Philanthropic Activities
Merry Clayton is not only a talented musician but is also known for her philanthropic activities. She has worked with several charitable organizations, including the Elton John AIDS Foundation and MusiCares. She has also been associated with cancer research organizations and works to raise awareness about the disease.
The Legacy of Merry Clayton
Merry Clayton’s influence on the music industry is irreplaceable. Her incredible talent and passion for music have inspired many young artists. She is a role model for anyone who wants to pursue a career in music.
Conclusion
Merry Clayton has had a long and successful career in the music industry. Her inspiring rags to riches story shows that with hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Clayton’s net worth and philanthropic endeavors are proof that she has become a legend in the music industry.
FAQs
1. What song is Merry Clayton most famous for?
Merry Clayton is most famous for her work as a backup singer on The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter.”
2. What is Merry Clayton’s net worth?
Merry Clayton’s net worth is estimated at $4 million.
3. Who has Merry Clayton collaborated with during her solo career?
During her solo career, Merry Clayton has collaborated with several musicians, including Joe Cocker, Paul McCartney, and Carole King.
4. What happened to Merry Clayton in 2014?
Merry Clayton was involved in a severe accident in 2014 that caused her to lose both her legs.
5. What philanthropic organizations has Merry Clayton been associated with?
Merry Clayton has been associated with several charitable organizations, such as the Elton John AIDS Foundation, MusiCares, and cancer research organizations.