Net Worth Ranker
What Is Nick Hexum’s Net Worth?
Nick Hexum, the celebrated American singer, songwriter, and rapper, boasts a net worth of $15 million. This figure primarily stems from his successful music career, particularly as the lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist for the alternative rock band 311.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Nicholas Lofton Hexum was born on April 12, 1970, in Madison, Wisconsin, to Dr. Terry Hexum, a pharmacology professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and his wife, Pat. He grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where he attended West Side High School and was involved in the school’s concert jazz band. While in high school, Hexum also played in local bands such as The Extras, The Right Profile, and The Eds, laying the groundwork for his future music career.
At the age of 18, Hexum made the move to Los Angeles, California, with his band, Unity. Although Unity disbanded shortly after the move, and a brief relocation to Germany, Hexum’s musical journey continued. In 1989, Chad Sexton, a former member of Unity, contacted Hexum to join his band, then known as Fish Hippos. This marked a crucial turning point, leading to the formation of 311.
The Rise of 311
Upon Hexum’s return to Omaha, Fish Hippos rebranded as 311, a name derived from the police code for indecent exposure. The initial lineup consisted of Hexum on vocals and guitar, Chad Sexton on drums, Jim Watson on lead guitar, and Aaron Wills on bass. Tim Mahoney soon replaced Watson, and in 1992, Doug “SA” Martinez joined, adding turntable and vocal elements to the band’s sound. 311’s music blends rock, rap, funk, and reggae, creating a distinctive sound that appealed to a wide audience, contributing significantly to Nick Hexum’s net worth.
311’s early releases included the 1989 EP “Downstairs,” recorded on cassettes in Hexum’s basement. Despite its lo-fi production quality, the EP represented the band’s initial foray into recording and distributing their music. In 1990, they released 300 cassettes of their independent album “Dammit!” followed by “Unity” in 1991, which saw a limited run of 1,000 CDs and 500 cassettes sold at local shows. These early efforts helped the band build a local following and refine their sound, eventually leading to their signing with Capricorn Records in 1992.
The band’s first commercially successful album, “Music,” released in 1993, achieved gold certification by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), selling over 500,000 copies. The album featured Jamaican Ragamuffin vocalist Daddy Freddy, adding an international element to their sound. This success was followed by “Grassroots” in 1994, which also went gold and reached number 193 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 8 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart.
311’s self-titled album, released in 1995, catapulted the band to mainstream success, achieving triple-platinum status with sales exceeding three million copies. The album peaked at number 12 on the Billboard 200 chart and number 1 on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart. Its success significantly boosted Nick Hexum’s net worth, solidifying 311’s position in the music industry.
In 1997, 311 released “Transistor,” a 21-song album that received mixed reviews due to its length and diverse musical styles. Despite the mixed reception, the album achieved platinum status and reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart. American musician Eric Correa contributed guest percussion on the album, highlighting the band’s collaborative approach to music.
The band’s live album, “Live,” was released in 1998, capturing the energy and excitement of their live performances. In 1999, 311 released “Soundsystem,” which was certified gold and reached number 9 on the Billboard 200 chart. The single “Come Original” from the album reached number 6 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, further expanding their fanbase and increasing their revenue streams.
Before recording their 2001 album “From Chaos,” 311 left Capricorn Records and signed with Volcano Entertainment, a division of Sony Music. “From Chaos” reached number 10 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified gold. The album featured the song “Amber,” inspired by Nick Hexum’s relationship with Nicole Scherzinger, which became one of 311’s most popular singles and was featured in the soundtracks of “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” and “50 First Dates.”
The release of “Evolver” in 2003 coincided with the band’s Unity Tour. In 2004, 311 released their first compilation album, “Greatest Hits ’93-’03,” which reached number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart and was certified platinum. “Don’t Tread on Me” followed in 2005, reaching number 5 on the Billboard 200 chart and selling over 90,000 copies in its first week. The album’s title track reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot Modern Rock Tracks chart.
311’s album “Uplifter,” released in 2009, debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200 chart, showcasing the band’s continued relevance and popularity. “Universal Pulse” followed in 2011, becoming their shortest album to date and reaching number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart. In 2019, the band released “Voyager,” which reached number 18 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Concert Tours and Revenue
Since 2000, 311 has held an annual extended concert for fans every March 11. These concerts have been held in various locations, including New Orleans, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and on cruise ships in the Caribbean. In 2011, the band began hosting Caribbean Festival Cruises, featuring live shows and guest bands, providing unique experiences for their fans. While exact revenue figures for these events are not publicly available, their consistency and popularity contribute significantly to the band’s income and Nick Hexum’s overall net worth.
Product Partnerships
In 2015, 311 partnered with the Nebraska Brewing Company to create 311 Amber Ale. The financial details of this partnership were not disclosed, but product endorsements and collaborations can be lucrative, adding to the band’s and Nick Hexum’s income streams.
Musical Side Projects
Nick Hexum also leads The Nick Hexum Quintet, a jazz and soul band featuring his brother Zack Hexum on guitar, keyboards, saxophone, and backing vocals; Gary Novak on drums; Andres Rebellon on bass; and Luke Miller on keyboard. Their debut album, “My Shadow Pages,” was released in 2013. While this side project may not generate the same revenue as 311, it provides an additional income source and showcases Hexum’s versatility as a musician, contributing to his artistic fulfillment and potentially boosting his earnings.
Personal Life
From 2000 to 2004, Nick Hexum was in a relationship with Nicole Scherzinger, who inspired the song “Amber” featured on 311’s “From Chaos” album. Hexum married Nikki in 2008, and they have three daughters: Echo, born in 2009; Maxine, born in 2011; and Harlow, born in 2014. They drive electric cars and use solar panels to power their home and vehicles, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Factors Contributing to Nick Hexum’s Net Worth
Nick Hexum’s $15 million net worth primarily stems from his music career as the frontman of 311. Album sales, concert ticket sales, streaming royalties, merchandise sales, and endorsement deals contribute to this substantial figure. While exact figures for each revenue stream are not publicly available, the band’s consistent success over several decades has undoubtedly played a significant role in accumulating his wealth. Additionally, income from his side project, The Nick Hexum Quintet, and potential investments likely add to his overall net worth.
