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What Is Richie Sambora’s Net Worth?
Richie Sambora, the American rock guitarist, producer, musician, singer, and songwriter, has accumulated a net worth of $150 million. This substantial wealth is primarily attributed to his role as the lead guitarist and a principal songwriter for the globally renowned rock band Bon Jovi. His earnings are also supplemented by his solo albums and guest appearances on various records. In recognition of his contributions to music, Sambora was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2009. In the spring of 2020, Sambora entered into a deal to sell the rights to his 200-song catalog to song-acquisition company Hipgnosis Songs Fund for an undisclosed amount of money.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Richard Stephen Sambora was born on July 11, 1959, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. His musical journey began at the age of six with the accordion. By the age of 12, he had transitioned to the guitar, inspired by the legendary Jimi Hendrix. Sambora’s musical versatility extends to the piano, bass guitar, saxophone, and drums. His first public performance took place at a Catholic Youth Organization dance during his teenage years. During his time at Woodbridge High School, where he graduated in 1977, Sambora was a member of the basketball team. In 1975, during his sophomore year, his high school team secured the New Jersey State Title, showcasing his athletic abilities alongside his musical talents. Prior to achieving fame with Bon Jovi, Sambora was a member of the band Message, which released its debut album, “Lesson,” in 1982. This album was later re-released in 1995 and 2000, demonstrating its enduring appeal. At the age of 19, Sambora also ventured into entrepreneurship as a part-owner of a club in New Jersey and the owner of his own record label, Dream Disc Records. His first professional tour came in the early 1980s when he served as an opening act for Joe Cocker, gaining valuable experience in the music industry.
Before joining Bon Jovi in 1983, Sambora auditioned for the role of Ace Frehley’s replacement in KISS, but was unsuccessful. Sambora replaced Bon Jovi’s original lead guitarist Dave Sabo. Sambora went to a Bon Jovi show and approached Jon after the show to tell him he was impressed and suggested they work together. The two immediately hit it off as friends, and Jon invited Richie to a band rehearsal. Sambora arrived at that rehearsal before Jon and by the time Jon did arrive, the band was sounding better than they did without Richie. Sambora was hired on the spot.
Bon Jovi and Global Success
Sambora’s career took a significant turn when he joined Bon Jovi in 1983, replacing the band’s original lead guitarist, Dave Sabo. Bon Jovi released their first two albums in 1984 and 1985. The band’s breakthrough to global success occurred in 1986 with the release of their third album, “Slippery When Wet.” This album spawned three iconic Bon Jovi hits: “Wanted Dead or Alive,” “You Give Love a Bad Name,” and “Living on a Prayer,” the last two of which reached the number-one position on music charts. “Slippery When Wet” remains the band’s most successful album to date. The band’s subsequent album, “New Jersey,” released in 1988, featured hits such as “Born to Be Your Baby,” “Lay Your Hands On Me,” and “I’ll Be There For You,” further solidifying their global appeal. Throughout his tenure with Bon Jovi, Sambora was a key contributor to the band’s songwriting, collaborating with Jon Bon Jovi to create numerous hit songs.
As of 2020, Bon Jovi has released 14 studio albums: “Bon Jovi” in 1984, “7800° Fahrenheit” in 1985, “Slippery When Wet” in 1986, “New Jersey” in 1988, “Keep the Faith” in 1992, “These Days” in 1995, “Crush” in 2000, “Bounce” in 2002, “Have a Nice Day” in 2005, “Lost Highway” in 2007, “The Circle” in 2009, “What About Now” in 2013, “This House Is Not for Sale” in 2016, and “Bon Jovi: 2020” in 2020. Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi were the primary songwriting unit of the band. Sambora left the band prior to a concert in Calgary during 2013’s Because We Can Tour and since has only played with Bon Jovi at their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction in 2018.
His departure from the band occurred prior to a concert in Calgary during the 2013 “Because We Can Tour.” Since then, he has only performed with Bon Jovi at their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction in 2018.
Solo Career and Songwriting Success
In addition to his work with Bon Jovi, Richie Sambora has also pursued a solo career, releasing three albums: “Stranger in This Town” in 1991, “Undiscovered Soul” in 1998, and “Aftermath of the Lowdown” in 2012. His solo work showcases his versatility as a musician and songwriter. Across his career, Richie Sambora has co-written four #1 hit singles, 20 Top 10 singles, and almost 40 Top 40 singles. These achievements highlight his significant contributions to the music industry and his ability to create commercially successful songs.
Personal Life and Relationships
Richie Sambora’s personal life has also attracted media attention. In 1991, he dated singer Cher. Sambora and actress Heather Locklear were married in Paris on December 17, 1994. The couple has one daughter, Ava Sambora, born in October 1997. Sambora and Locklear divorced in 2007. Sambora dated guitarist Orianthi from 2014 to 2018. His personal struggles have included battles with alcoholism and addiction to painkillers. In 2007, he checked into rehab for these issues. In March 2008, Sambora was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving in Orange County, California. He was fined $390, put on probation for three years, and mandated to attend a driver’s education course. In April 2011, Sambora checked into rehab again, causing him to miss 13 of Bon Jovi’s tour dates. He rejoined the band on tour in June 2011 upon completing rehab.
Real Estate Holdings
Richie Sambora’s real estate portfolio includes properties in various locations, reflecting his financial success and lifestyle preferences. He owns houses in Point Pleasant Boro, New Jersey; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Calabasas, California; and Laguna Beach, California. In September 2008, Sambora purchased a 2,600-square-foot condo in a downtown Philadelphia highrise for $3.58 million. The condo is reportedly on the 52nd floor. He paid $4 million to buy a 10,204 square-foot Mediterranean-style house in Calabasas, California, from San Diego Padres starting pitcher Randy Wolf. These real estate investments contribute to Richie Sambora’s overall net worth and provide him with residences in desirable locations.
The Calabasas property, acquired for $4 million from Randy Wolf, spans 10,204 square feet and showcases a Mediterranean architectural style. The Philadelphia condo, located on the 52nd floor of a high-rise, offers 2,600 square feet of living space.
Additional Information
In the spring of 2020, Sambora entered into a deal to sell the rights to his 200-song catalog to song-acquisition company Hipgnosis Songs Fund for an undisclosed amount of money. All in all, Richie Sambora has co-written four #1 hit singles, 20 Top 10 singles, and almost 40 Top 40 singles.
Richie Sambora’s story is one of musical talent, global success, and personal challenges. His contributions to Bon Jovi and his solo work have solidified his place in music history.
