Net Worth Ranker
What Is Ben E. King’s Net Worth?
At the time of his death on April 30, 2015, Ben E. King, the celebrated American soul singer and songwriter, had a net worth of $20 million. A significant portion of this net worth was attributable to his valuable songwriting and publishing catalog, reflecting his enduring impact on the music industry.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Benjamin Earl Nelson, who would later become known as Ben E. King, was born on September 28, 1938, in Henderson, North Carolina. His early life was marked by a strong connection to music, nurtured within the church choirs he participated in after moving to Harlem, New York City, at the age of nine. His father intended to open a restaurant. In high school, King formed a doo-wop group called the Four B’s.
The Drifters Era: Rise to Prominence
King’s career took a significant turn in 1958 when he joined the doo-wop group, the Five Crowns. This group soon replaced the original members of the R&B vocal group, the Drifters, under the management of George Treadwell. As the leader of this new lineup, Ben E. King propelled the Drifters to a series of hits on Atlantic Records. Notably, in 1959, he sang lead and co-wrote “There Goes My Baby,” marking the first Atlantic hit for the revamped Drifters. He continued to lead vocals on hits like “Save the Last Dance for Me,” which reached number one in the US, “This Magic Moment,” and “I Count the Tears.” King’s tenure with the Drifters lasted until May 1960, when he embarked on a solo career. He briefly rejoined the Drifters in the UK in late 1982, performing with them until their disbandment and subsequent reorganization in 1986.
Solo Success and “Stand by Me”
Ben E. King transitioned to a solo career under Atlantic Records’ Atco label, achieving his first solo hit with the ballad “Spanish Harlem,” which peaked at number five on the Billboard Hot 100. His subsequent release, “Stand by Me,” co-written with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller (under the pseudonym Elmo Glick), became the defining song of his career. “Stand by Me” has been covered over 400 times, underscoring its timeless appeal and significant cultural impact. Between 1961 and 2015 alone, the song generated more than $30 million in royalties for the trio, with King reportedly receiving 50% as the performer and co-writer.
Continued Musical Contributions
Throughout the early to mid-1960s, Ben E. King continued to produce successful songs, including “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied),” “Amor,” “I (Who Have Nothing),” and “Young Boy Blues.” While the British Invasion somewhat overshadowed his mainstream success, King maintained a presence with R&B hits such as “Tears, Tears, Tears,” “So Much Love,” and “Til I Can’t Take it Anymore.” In 1975, he made a comeback with the disco hit “Supernatural Thing,” which reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and earned him a Grammy Award nomination. Additionally, King collaborated with the Average White Band on the album “Benny & Us” and with children’s music artist Bobby Susser on the album “I Have Songs in My Pocket,” further diversifying his musical portfolio.
“Stand By Me” Royalties and Enduring Legacy
Ben E. King’s most famous song, “Stand by Me,” co-written with Mike Stoller and Jerry Leiber, is one of the most valuable songs ever produced. The song’s enduring popularity and use in the 1986 film of the same name led to a resurgence in its sales and airplay, further solidifying its place in popular culture. The continuous royalties from “Stand by Me” significantly contributed to Ben E. King’s net worth, reflecting the song’s lasting appeal and his role as both performer and co-writer.
Later Life and Charitable Work
In his later years, Ben E. King dedicated his time to the Stand by Me Foundation, his charitable organization focused on improving access to youth education. Despite his declining health, he continued to tour both the United States and the United Kingdom, showcasing his enduring passion for music and connecting with fans worldwide.
Personal Life and Family
In 1964, Ben E. King married Betty Nelson, and together they had three children: Terris, Benjamin, and Angela. The couple remained married for over 50 years and resided in Teaneck, New Jersey. Ben E. King’s personal life reflected stability and commitment, complementing his successful and impactful career in music.
Death and Final Years
Ben E. King passed away on April 30, 2015, at the age of 76, at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey after a brief illness. His death marked the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the music industry. His net worth of $20 million at the time of his death underscores the financial success he achieved through his talent, hard work, and enduring contributions to music.
