Net Worth Ranker
What Is Ben Tankard’s Net Worth?
Ben Tankard, a prominent figure in gospel music, boasts a net worth of $5 million. His financial standing is primarily attributed to his successful career as a gospel musician, record producer, pastor, and author. Ben Tankard, often called the “Godfather of Gospel/Jazz,” has cultivated a diverse range of income streams that have significantly contributed to his overall net worth.
Breakdown of Ben Tankard’s Net Worth
While precise details about the composition of Ben Tankard’s net worth are not publicly available, we can infer its sources from his various professional endeavors. His primary income source stems from his music career, where he has released numerous best-selling albums, earning both gold and platinum certifications. Publishing royalties and performance rights from his extensive discography generate consistent revenue. The success of albums such as “All Keyed Up,” “Keynote Speaker,” and “Ben Tankard/Full Tank” showcases his lasting impact on the gospel and jazz scenes.
As the pastor of The Destiny Center in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Tankard likely receives a salary, although the exact figure remains undisclosed. The Destiny Center, functioning as the national headquarters for his record label, Tribute/Ben-Jamin’, suggests integrated operations that could enhance his financial interests through synergistic activities.
Tankard’s ventures extend beyond music and ministry. His involvement in the Bravo reality series “Thicker Than Water” from 2013 to 2016 likely provided a substantial income boost. Reality television appearances often involve lucrative contracts, which contribute significantly to the net worth of participating celebrities.
His book, “The Full Tank Life,” published in August 2015, became an Essence magazine’s Inspirational Book of the Year for 2016 and a national bestseller. Revenue from book sales, speaking engagements, and related promotional activities have further augmented his financial assets. His experience as a BMI writer for over 25 years would also provide royalty income. The specifics of these deals, including any advance payments or royalty rates, remain confidential.
Furthermore, Ben Tankard’s work with the NBA as a musician and speaker since 2012 allows him to provide support for the NBA Office of Player Development, suggesting compensation for his motivational sessions and smooth jazz mini concerts. Although the contractual details are private, such collaborations generally provide substantial financial benefits.
Ben Tankard also generates income through concert performances and personal appearances. Performing over 100 concerts annually provides a steady revenue stream. These performances enhance his visibility and appeal to diverse audiences, including gospel, jazz, and general music enthusiasts. He is also a licensed pilot who flies himself to concerts, suggesting savings on travel expenses that contribute indirectly to his financial efficiency.
Career Milestones and Financial Impact
Several milestones in Ben Tankard’s career have significantly impacted his net worth:
Early Success (1989-1990): The release of his first album, “All Keyed Up,” in 1989 and the subsequent Stellar Award for New Artist of the Year propelled him into the limelight, setting the stage for future financial successes. The release of “Keynote Speaker” in 1990 solidified his presence in the gospel music scene.
Yolanda Adams Collaboration: Discovering and signing Yolanda Adams to his indie Tribute label and producing her albums “Through the Storm,” “Save the World,” “More Than A Melody,” and “Yolanda Live in Washington” amplified his production credentials and financial success. Their collaboration on over 40 compositions significantly boosted his publishing royalties and production fees.
Establishment of Destiny Center Church (2002): Founding the Destiny Center Church in 2002 broadened his scope beyond music. The church also serves as the headquarters for his record label, Tribute/Ben-Jamin’, potentially enhancing revenue streams and offering tax benefits. Although specific financial arrangements are private, religious organizations can provide avenues for generating income through donations and community support.
“Ben Tankard/Full Tank” Album (2012): The release of “Ben Tankard/Full Tank” in June 2012, featuring the hit single “Sunday Vibes,” marked a resurgence in his career. The album’s debut on “Billboard” and Amazon.com charts in jazz, gospel, and southern gospel categories underscored his broad appeal and sales potential. The album hit the top sellers charts in three categories, Jazz, Gospel, and Southern Gospel, a first for Tankard in that genre.
Reality TV Show “Thicker Than Water” (2013-2016): Starring in “Thicker Than Water” from 2013 to 2016 provided substantial financial compensation. Reality TV stars often earn significant amounts per episode, and the show’s success would have increased Tankard’s income and visibility.
“The Full Tank Life” Book (2015): Publishing “The Full Tank Life” in 2015 and its subsequent recognition as Essence magazine’s Inspirational Book of the Year expanded his brand and income sources. Bestselling books can lead to substantial royalties and speaking engagement opportunities. This has led to Tankard securing several speaking engagements that have translated to income over the years.
“CanTANKerous” Album (2017): Reaching #1 on the Smooth Jazz Amazon bestseller list with his album “CanTANKerous” in 2017 reinforced his continued relevance in the smooth jazz genre. Top-selling albums generate significant revenue through sales and streaming royalties.
Awards and Recognition: Receiving twelve Stellar Awards, three Grammy nominations, and eight Dove Award nominations has elevated his status and earning potential. The Stellar Award for “Full Tank 2.0” is regarded as the highest honor in gospel music, highlighting his impact on the genre.
Ben Tankard’s Assets and Investments
While specific details on Ben Tankard’s assets and investments are not publicly documented, his career and lifestyle suggest certain possibilities:
Real Estate: As a resident of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, it is likely that Ben Tankard owns residential property. However, specific addresses and property values are not publicly available.
Aviation Assets: As a licensed pilot who flies to most of his concerts, Tankard likely owns or leases one or more airplanes. Details about the make, model, and value of these aircraft remain private. Tankard also participates in the Urban Eagles charity, which focuses on teaching children about careers in aviation.
Record Label: Ownership or substantial equity in Tribute/Ben-Jamin’ record label. As the national headquarters for the record label Tribute/Ben-Jamin’, this presents an opportunity for Tankard to profit from new and upcoming gospel artists.
Investments: While there’s no specific information available, it can be inferred that Tankard has investments, including stocks, bonds, or other financial instruments.
Ben Tankard’s Personal Life and Habits
Ben Tankard was born on January 10, 1964, in Daytona Beach, Florida. Growing up in a religious household with his father as a minister and his mother as a missionary influenced his early exposure to music. Tankard played the drums in church from a young age. He played tuba in school and earned a basketball scholarship, highlighting his diverse interests and talents.
Tankard’s personal life is characterized by a blend of his musical pursuits, religious activities, and family life. He is married to Jewel Tankard, and their family life was chronicled in the reality television series “Thicker Than Water.” Tankard’s routine likely involves balancing his pastoral duties, music production, concert performances, and motivational speaking engagements.
Tankard’s routine likely includes time dedicated to composing, recording, and producing music, as well as managing his record label and engaging with his congregation at The Destiny Center. He also likely spends time preparing for speaking engagements and traveling for concerts, which would include flying his own plane.
