Mike Rutherford Net Worth

Mike Rutherford Net Worth: A Look at the Genesis Legend’s Wealth and Career

Mike Rutherford, the iconic English musician, has amassed a substantial net worth of $120 million. Known globally as a founding member of the legendary band Genesis and a key figure in the formation of Mike + The Mechanics, Rutherford’s financial success is a testament to his enduring contributions to the music industry. This article delves into the sources of his wealth, exploring his career highlights, solo endeavors, and significant business decisions.

Table of Contents

• Early Life and Career Beginnings
• Genesis: A Progressive Rock Dynasty
• Solo Career and Albums
• Mike + The Mechanics: A Side Project’s Triumph
• Other Music Appearances and Collaborations
• Personal Life and Real Estate Holdings
• Catalog Sale
• Conclusion

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Michael John Cleote Crawford Rutherford on October 2, 1950, in Chertsey, England, Mike Rutherford’s musical journey began at a young age. Receiving his first guitar at eight, he quickly embraced music, playing in his initial band, The Chesters. His education included stints at the preparatory school the Leas and Charterhouse. It was at Charterhouse where he joined the school band Anon, covering popular songs of the era. Although his time at Charterhouse was marked by misbehavior leading to his expulsion, it was also where he laid the foundation for his future career in music.

Genesis: A Progressive Rock Dynasty

In 1967, Rutherford co-founded Genesis alongside fellow Charterhouse students Tony Banks, Anthony Phillips, Peter Gabriel, and Chris Stewart. Initially signed by record producer Jonathan King, the band released their debut album, “From Genesis to Revelation,” in 1969. Though the album was not commercially successful, Genesis persevered, eventually signing with Charisma Records. The band’s lineup evolved, with Phil Collins and Steve Hackett joining, solidifying their shift towards progressive rock. Genesis released a string of successful albums throughout the 70s and 80s, including “Foxtrot,” “Selling England by the Pound,” “The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway,” “A Trick of the Tail,” “Wind & Wuthering,” “…And Then There Were Three…,” “Abacab,” and “Invisible Touch.” Despite numerous lineup changes, Rutherford remained a constant presence, playing bass, rhythm guitar, lead guitar, and providing backing vocals.

Genesis’s impact on the music world is undeniable. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, a testament to their lasting legacy. Their massive “Invisible Touch” tour in the mid-eighties, spanning 111 shows and 59 cities, drew in millions of fans, solidifying their status as a global sensation. Rutherford’s songwriting contributions, including hits like “Throwing it All Away,” “Turn it On Again,” and “Follow You Follow Me,” significantly shaped Genesis’s commercial success.

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Solo Career and Albums

During breaks from Genesis in the late 70s and early 80s, Rutherford pursued a solo career, releasing two albums. The first, “Smallcreep’s Day,” drew inspiration from Peter Currell Brown’s novel. He followed this with “Acting Very Strange,” showcasing his talents as a vocalist, guitarist, bassist, and keyboardist. Both albums enjoyed moderate success in the UK, contributing to his overall income and showcasing his musical versatility.

Mike + The Mechanics: A Side Project’s Triumph

In 1985, Rutherford founded Mike + The Mechanics, a side project that became remarkably successful. The band featured keyboardist Adrian Lee, drummer Peter Van Hooke, and vocalists Paul Young and Paul Carrack. Their self-titled debut album spawned hit singles such as “Silent Running” and “All I Need is a Miracle.” Their second album, “Living Years,” was even more successful, with the title track topping the Billboard Hot 100. This project further diversified Rutherford’s income streams and solidified his place in music history.

Other Music Appearances and Collaborations

Besides his work with Genesis and Mike + The Mechanics, Rutherford collaborated with various artists. He contributed to the soundtrack of the 1984 film “Against All Odds” alongside Genesis bandmates Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel. In 2004, he participated in the Strat Pack Concert, honoring the Fender Stratocaster’s 50th anniversary. Furthermore, he performed at the closing ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London with Ed Sheeran and Nick Mason, demonstrating his ongoing influence and appeal.

Personal Life and Real Estate Holdings

In 1976, Mike Rutherford married Angie, and they have three children: Kate, Tom, and Harry. The couple divides their time between Loxwood, England, and Cape Town, South Africa. In 2008, Rutherford invested in real estate, purchasing a loft apartment in New York City for $5.03 million, which he extensively renovated. The property, featuring luxury amenities, was later sold for nearly $8 million.

Catalog Sale

In September 2022, Mike Rutherford, along with his Genesis bandmates Phil Collins and Tony Banks, made a significant financial decision by selling their music catalog rights to Concord Music Group Inc. for a substantial sum of $300 million. This transaction underscores the value of their musical legacy and provides a significant boost to their financial portfolios.

Conclusion

Mike Rutherford’s net worth of $120 million reflects his remarkable musical journey, marked by his pivotal role in Genesis and the success of Mike + The Mechanics. His continuous contributions to music, strategic business decisions, and prudent investments have secured his financial success and cemented his status as a music icon. From his early days in the British Invasion to his later collaborations and real estate ventures, Rutherford’s career exemplifies the power of talent, perseverance, and smart financial choices.