Jody Watley, a name synonymous with talent and success, has firmly established herself as an influential figure in the music world. With her unique blend of R&B, pop, and dance music, Watley has captivated audiences worldwide and garnered a devoted fan base.
Watley has done well in singing, but she has also tried her hand at business, making her a truly multifaceted artist. As her talents continue to shine, many are curious about Jody Watley’s net worth and her financial success.
This article will dive into Jody Watley net worth, exploring her remarkable career and personal life.
What is Jody Watley’s Net Worth and Salary in 2023?
Jody Watley, a renowned singer, and songwriter, has an estimated net worth of $6 million as of 2023. She was born on January 30, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois. She became famous for her diverse music genres such as Pop, R&B, Jazz, and Electronic Soul.
Watley began her career at 14 on the TV dance show Soul Train and later joined the R&B group Shalamar, where she performed from 1977 to 1984. She had a great solo career after she left the group. She put out several albums and won a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1987.
Jody Watley Overview: Why is Jody Watley Famous?
Early Life
Jody Watley was born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 30, 1959. Growing up in Los Angeles, she was exposed to show business from an early age, with her godfather legendary Jackie Wilson.
At just eight years old, she made her first stage appearance alongside him. At Dorsey High School, she was voted ‘best dancer’ in her senior class poll.
Soul Train and Shalamar
Jody Watley is a talented singer and dancer. She began her illustrious career at 14 when she joined the popular TV dance show Soul Train.
Don Cornelius, the show’s founder, chose her to join Shalamar, an R&B group, due to her outstanding dancing and flair.
Shalamar’s lead vocalist Howard Hewett, Soul Train dancer Jeffrey Daniel, and Watley had popularity from 1977 through 1983.
The trio released several hit albums and chart-topping singles, such as:
- Take That to the Bank
- The Second Time Around
- Make That Move
- For the Lover In You
- Dead Giveaway
- A Night to Remember
But Watley left Shalamar in 1983 because of problems with the group and their record label. This made way for her great solo career.
Solo Career
Jody Watley’s solo career began after her departure from the R&B/funk band Shalamar in the early 1980s. She moved to England and recorded a few singles under the mononym ‘Jody’ before securing a recording deal with MCA Records.
Her 1987 self-titled album showcased her singing and songwriting abilities, integrating styles like:
- Pop
- R&B
- Jazz
- Dance
- Electronic soul
The album was a commercial success. It reached number ten on the U.S. Billboard 200 and number one on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It sold more than four million copies around the world. It produced several chart-topping hits, including:
- Looking for a New Love
- You Want Me
- Everything
- Still a Thrill
In 1988, Watley won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist and received multiple nominations for MTV Video Music Awards and Soul Train Awards.
Her second record, Larger Than Life, continued her success with songs like Real Love and Friends when co-operate with hip-hop legends Eric B. & Rakim.
Watley’s solo work has been known for her unique style, captivating performances, and lyrics that help people. She’s won awards like the 2007 Billboard Dance Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2017 Black Music Honors Crossover Music Icon Award.
She has also made a big difference in fashion and beauty, becoming an important figure for many artists and designers. As a multi-generational artist, Jody Watley defies expectations and breaks rules, making her a true Renaissance woman in the music business.
Personal Life
Watley has two kids: a girl named Lauren with her ex-fiancé and music producer Leon Sylvers III. The other is a son named Arie with her ex-husband André Cymone.
She is also the goddaughter of the famous singer Jackie Wilson and the older sister of Midori, who is a singer and used to be in adult films.
Jody Watley has been known for her unique style and her work in the music business for most of her life. This has made her an icon in both her personal and professional life.
FAQs about Jody Watley
When did Jody Watley become popular?
Jody Watley became popular in the late 1980s, with her debut solo album released in 1987.
Is Jody Watley married?
Jody Watley was previously married to André Cymone from 1991 to 1994. She is currently not married.
Does Jody Watley have any children?
Yes, Jody Watley has a daughter named Lauren and a son named Arie Cymone.
Is Jody Watley still active in the music industry?
Yes, Jody Watley remains active in the music industry, releasing new music and collaborating with other artists.
Why did Jody Watley leave Shalamar?
Before The Look was released in 1983, Watley and Daniel departed Shalamar. This was due to disagreements with the other group members, as well as with Dick Griffey and SOLAR.
Conclusion
Watley has left an indelible mark on R&B, pop, and dance music thanks to her incredible talent and hard working. Her work in music, acting, and fashion, among other things, shows how versatile and entrepreneurial she is.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and WCnetworth hopes that you continue to be inspired by Jody Watley’s remarkable success.
