The Surprising Roky Net Worth Revealed: How a Legendary Musician Made His Fortune
For many music lovers, Roky Erickson was a legend. Erickson, who passed away in May 2019, was an American musician and songwriter famous for his work with the 13th Floor Elevators
However, while he was a musical icon and a household name among lovers of psychedelic rock music, many know very little about his wealth. In this post, we will take a deep dive into the Roky net worth and examine how he made his fortune.
Join me on this journey of discovery, as we explore the intriguing financial life of Roky Erickson and discover how his music legacy earned him a comfortable living.
1. Early Life and Career
Roger Kynard “Roky” Erickson was born on July 15, 1947, in Austin, Texas. He began playing music at a young age and eventually formed a band called The Spades while in high school.
After graduating from high school, Erickson and his bandmates formed a new band called The 13th Floor Elevators. The band’s psychedelic rock sound caught on quickly, and they were soon headlining shows across Texas.
Unfortunately, trouble began to hit the band, and Roky’s mental health started to deteriorate. He was eventually diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia and spent time in and out of institutions. Despite this, he remained passionate about music and continued to perform and write songs throughout his life.
2. Rise to Fame
The 13th Floor Elevators quickly made a name for themselves, and their hit single “You’re Gonna Miss Me” is still a cult favorite today. The band’s success eventually took them to California, where they gained national attention and appeared on TV shows like American Bandstand.
However, The 13th Floor Elevators’ fame was short-lived, and the band broke up in 1969. Despite this, Roky continued to write and perform music and released several solo albums over the years.
3. Profitable Tours
Roky Erickson was a powerful live performer, and his concerts were often packed with fans eager to see him perform. He toured frequently and across continents, and his live shows drew throngs of fans and made money for him.
According to reports, Erickson earned a significant amount from touring. His shows were known for their energy and passion, and he was able to capture the hearts of his audience as he sang some of his most popular songs.
It’s safe to say that Roky Erickson’s tours were among the most profitable sources of his income.
4. Sales of His Music
Roky was not only a talented performer but also a prolific songwriter. His music was beloved not just in the US, but also in Europe and beyond. Throughout his career, he released several studio albums, live recordings, and singles.
Record sales for Roky Erickson were impressive, and his music has since become a source of influence to other artists. He received royalties on the sales of his albums, helping him earn a comfortable living throughout his lifetime.
5. Collaboration with Other Artists
Roky Erickson also collaborated with other artists throughout his career, including two notable collaborations in the late ’80s and early ’90s. He worked with the punk rock band The Butthole Surfers on their cover of “Earthquake.” and later with The Reverend Horton Heat on an album, “Liquor in the Front.”
These collaborations helped him gain exposure among music fans beyond his devoted fanbase. Also, this put more money in his pocket, as any time artists collaborate, the resulting work can be a revenue stream for all involved.
6. Film and Documentaries
Even after his death, Roky Erickson’s music continues to gain new fans. Interest in his life and music led to a documentary about his life titled “You’re Gonna Miss Me:” released in 2005.
The film attracted attention and helped bring exposure to his entire musical journey, ultimately resulting in increased interest in his music. For all who were involved, from the producers to the actors, the resulting project generated a stream of revenue.
7. Merchandising
As a cult favorite and a legendary musician, Roky Erickson’s music is a go-to for many fans of psychedelic rock. Fans of his music frequently purchase merchandise such as vinyl, posters, t-shirts, and other collectibles related to his music.
While not his most substantial source of income, Roky earned money from all merchandise sales, including those of the 13th Floor Elevators, helping him secure his net worth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.
What was Roky Erickson’s net worth when he was alive?
When he passed away, his net worth was estimated to be between $1 million and $2 million.
2.
What was Roky Erickson’s most significant source of income?
Live events were the most significant source of income for Roky Erickson.
3.
Did Roky Erickson earn money from music sales?
Yes, record sales brought in significant revenue for Roky Erickson.
4.
Did he write any songs with other musicians?
Yes, he collaborated with other artists on several projects throughout his career.
5.
Was Roky Erickson’s posthumous net worth affected?
It’s unclear how much of an impact it had, but a renewed appreciation for his work could likely result in a surge of income for his estate.
6.
What happened to Roky Erickson’s assets when he died?
Roky Erickson’s estate inherited his wealth, including income generated from royalties, films, and his merchandising rights.
7.
What was Roky Erickson’s most successful album?
His 1980 album, “The Evil One,” is considered his most successful recording.
Conclusion
Roky Erickson’s success is proof that talent and hard work can bring a lifetime of financial security. He amassed his wealth through his music career, songwriting, live performances, and merchandising
Through his legacy and his music, Roky Erickson touched the lives of millions, and even after his death, he continues to be a lasting source of inspiration for music lovers worldwide.
So, next time you listen to one of his songs, take a moment to appreciate not only the music but also the story behind the man who made it. You may even walk away with a reminder that dreams can come true with dedication and passion.
And who knows; you might be the next legendary musician that will make headlines for years to come!