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What Is Phil Rudd Net Worth’ Net Worth
As of 2023, Phil Rudd, the Australian drummer best known for his time with AC/DC, has an estimated net worth of $50 million to $70 million. This wealth is primarily attributed to his successful music career, marked by decades of performing and recording with the iconic rock band. Besides his music career, Rudd has also ventured into other businesses, including owning a restaurant named Phil’s Place in Tauranga, New Zealand, which contributed to his overall financial status. However, it is important to note that wealth estimations can vary.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Phillip Hugh Norman Witschke Rudzevecuis, most famously known as Phil Rudd, was born on May 19, 1954, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. His parents were of Lithuanian descent, and he grew up in the suburb of Surrey Hills in Melbourne. Rudd’s passion for drumming started in his teenage years. Before joining AC/DC, he played in several local bands, including Buster Brown with Angry Anderson. In 1974, Buster Brown released an album titled “Something to Say,” which featured Rudd’s early work. Following this, he played with Lobby Loyde’s Coloured Balls. It was in 1975 that Rudd successfully auditioned for AC/DC, joining the band shortly after they had recorded their debut album in Australia. Rudd’s drumming style became integral to AC/DC’s signature sound.
AC/DC Years and Musical Contributions
Phil Rudd’s career with AC/DC can be divided into three stints: 1975-1983, 1994-2015, and 2018-present. During his time with the band, Rudd played on numerous commercially successful albums, including “High Voltage”, “Highway to Hell”, “Back in Black,” and “For Those About to Rock We Salute You.” These albums achieved multi-platinum status and contributed significantly to Rudd’s income through royalties and performance fees. Although specific figures for album sales royalties are not publicly available, it’s estimated that musicians of Rudd’s stature earn a significant percentage of album revenue, usually split among band members and rights holders. For example, “Back in Black” alone has sold an estimated 50 million copies worldwide. Rudd was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 along with the other members of AC/DC.
Other Ventures and Assets
Beyond his music career, Phil Rudd invested in other ventures. In 2011, he purchased a marina restaurant in Tauranga, New Zealand, which he named “Phil’s Place.” The restaurant offered seafood and steak options. Phil’s Place temporarily closed in July 2012, and reopened on April 10, 2013. However, on May 5, 2019, Phil’s Place closed and was rebranded as “Salinity Restaurant and Bar”. Rudd also reportedly owned a helicopter company in Tauranga. He also has a collection of luxury cars and properties in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty. While the exact models and values of his cars and the specific addresses of his properties are not publicly disclosed, these assets contribute to his overall net worth.
Legal Issues and Personal Life
Phil Rudd’s career has not been without its challenges. In 2014, he faced legal issues in New Zealand, leading to his replacement on the 2015 “Rock or Bust” World Tour. In December 2010, Rudd was convicted of possessing 25g of marijuana on his boat in Tauranga, New Zealand, but later had his cannabis conviction quashed. On July 9, 2015, Rudd was sentenced to eight months of home detention and ordered to pay NZ$120,000 in reparation. He appealed to be discharged without conviction, but his appeal was rejected. In 2014, Rudd was ordered to pay more than $70,000 to three former employees for unjustified dismissal from his restaurant. Born in Melbourne, Rudd has German and Irish ancestry; his stepfather was Lithuanian. He married Lisa O’Brien, a New Zealander, in 1983, and they have five children. The pair separated in 2006.
Earnings and Financial Milestones
AC/DC’s financial success has been substantial over the years. Even with changes in the band’s lineup, including Rudd’s temporary departures, AC/DC remained a top-earning rock act. For example, between June 2015 and June 2016, AC/DC earned an estimated USD$67.5 million, surpassing other major rock bands such as The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen. This income was primarily derived from touring, album sales, and licensing agreements. While specific details regarding Rudd’s individual earnings are not public, it is reasonable to assume that as a long-standing member of the band, he received a considerable share of these earnings. Royalties for playing on each record and a slice of the tour profits were likely part of his compensation.
