John Densmore Net Worth - Net Worth FAQ (2024 Edition) (2024)

John Densmore Net Worth: The Drummer of The Doors

John Densmore is an American musician, songwriter, and actor. He is best known as the drummer of the legendary rock band The Doors. Densmore’s innovative and distinctive rhythms helped create the band’s unique sound and contributed greatly to their success. He is considered one of the most influential drummers in rock history. In this article, we will take a closer look at John Densmore’s net worth, early life, education, career, personal life, and legacy.

What is John Densmore’s Net Worth and Salary?

John Densmore’s net worth is estimated to be around $20 million. He accumulated most of his wealth from his successful career as a musician, songwriter, and actor.

As the drummer of The Doors, Densmore had a significant contribution to the band’s earnings. The band sold over 100 million records worldwide and had numerous chart-topping hits. Moreover, Densmore has also earned money from his solo projects, live performances, and acting career.

Early Life and Education

John Densmore was born on December 1, 1944, in Los Angeles, California. He spent most of his childhood in Southern California. His father, an Irish-American, was a jazz pianist, and his mother, a Serbian-American, was a bookkeeper. Densmore discovered his love for music at an early age. He started playing the piano and later switched to drums.

Densmore studied at Santa Monica College, where he graduated with an associate degree in arts. He then enrolled in California State University, Northridge, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English.

Career

In 1965, John Densmore joined The Doors, which was founded by Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, and Robby Krieger. The band released their debut album, “The Doors,” in 1967, which included their hit song, “Light My Fire.” Densmore’s drumming on the album was praised for its unique and intricate rhythms.

The Doors continued to produce hit songs like “Break On Through,” “Hello, I Love You,” and “Touch Me.” Densmore’s contribution to the band’s success was not limited to his drumming skills. He helped write some of The Doors’ songs, including “Love Street,” “Waiting For The Sun,” and “Not To Touch The Earth.”

After Jim Morrison’s death in 1971, The Doors continued to perform as a trio with Densmore, Manzarek, and Krieger. They released several more albums, including “Other Voices” and “Full Circle.” However, The Doors disbanded in 1973 due to creative differences among the members.

After The Doors, Densmore continued to pursue his music career. He released several solo albums, including “Love Her Madly,” and collaborated with other musicians like The Cult and Paul Rothchild. Densmore is also an accomplished author and has published several books, including his memoir, “Riders on the Storm: My Life with Jim Morrison and The Doors.”

Personal Life

John Densmore has been married to his wife, Leslie Neuman, since 1990. The couple has a daughter named Emily. Densmore is also an advocate for environmental and social causes, including animal welfare and indigenous peoples’ rights.

Legacy

John Densmore’s legacy as one of the most influential drummers in rock history is undeniable. He helped create The Doors’ unique sound, which continues to influence musicians today. Moreover, Densmore’s contribution to songwriting and his activism have also left a lasting impact on the music industry and society as a whole.

Real Estate

John Densmore is known to own several properties in California. In 2016, he put his Venice Beach home up for sale for $3.495 million. The 3,700 square-foot home includes four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a recording studio. Moreover, Densmore’s Malibu home is worth around $12 million.

FAQs

How did John Densmore meet Jim Morrison?

John Densmore met Jim Morrison while they were studying at UCLA. Both of them were part of the film school and realized that they shared a love for music.

What inspired John Densmore’s drumming style?

John Densmore’s drumming style was inspired by jazz and Latin rhythms. He used a lot of improvisation and syncopation in his playing, which contributed to The Doors’ unique sound.

What is John Densmore’s most famous song?

John Densmore’s most famous song is “Riders on the Storm,” which he co-wrote with Jim Morrison and Ray Manzarek. The song is considered one of The Doors’ greatest hits and has been covered by numerous artists.

Did John Densmore collaborate with other musicians?

Yes, John Densmore has collaborated with various artists throughout his career. He worked with The Cult on their album “The Cult” and with Paul Rothchild on his album “Rothchild & Densmore.”

Is John Densmore an author?

Yes, John Densmore has written several books, including his memoir, “Riders on the Storm: My Life with Jim Morrison and The Doors.”

Was John Densmore involved in any legal disputes with his former bandmates?

Yes, John Densmore was involved in a legal dispute with his former bandmates over the use of The Doors’ name. Densmore opposed the use of the name for advertising purposes and believed that it violated the band’s legacy.

What is John Densmore’s stance on animal rights?

John Densmore is an advocate for animal rights and is a supporter of PETA. He has worked with the organization to promote animal welfare and raise awareness about animal abuse.

What is John Densmore’s biggest regret?

John Densmore regrets not reconciling with Jim Morrison before his death. He believes that they could have created more great music together if they had worked through their differences.

Did John Densmore experience any health problems?

John Densmore has been open about his struggles with depression and anxiety. He has also experienced hearing loss, which he attributes to years of playing loud music.

What charities does John Densmore support?

John Densmore supports various charities, including the City of Hope, the Rhythmic Arts Project, and the Children’s Defense Fund.

What is John Densmore’s opinion on the current state of the music industry?

John Densmore believes that the music industry has become too focused on profit and commercial success at the expense of creativity and artistic expression.

What advice does John Densmore give to aspiring musicians?

John Densmore advises aspiring musicians to focus on their craft and to stay true to themselves. He believes that artists should express their own unique voice and not try to conform to trends or commercial expectations.

Did John Densmore attend Jim Morrison’s funeral?

No, John Densmore did not attend Jim Morrison’s funeral. He was in San Francisco at the time, attending a birthday party for a friend.

What is the name of John Densmore’s memoir?

The name of John Densmore’s memoir is “Riders on the Storm: My Life with Jim Morrison and The Doors.”

What is John Densmore’s connection to indigenous peoples’ rights?

John Densmore is a supporter of indigenous peoples’ rights. He has worked with organizations like Honor The Earth and has spoken out against the construction of oil pipelines on sacred indigenous lands.

What is John Densmore’s advice to young activists?

John Densmore advises young activists to be persistent and to never give up. He believes that change takes time and that it requires sustained effort and dedication.