What Was Fats Domino’s Net Worth When He Died?

Fats Domino, the legendary pianist and singer-songwriter, had a net worth of $8 million at the time of his passing. As one of the most influential figures in early rock ‘n’ roll, he left an indelible mark on the music industry with his signature piano rhythms, smooth vocals, and pioneering sound.

Early Life

Born Antoine Domino Jr. on February 26, 1928, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Fats Domino was immersed in music from a young age. Growing up in a city known for its rich musical heritage, he was heavily influenced by his father, a violinist, and his uncle, jazz guitarist Harrison Verrett, who introduced him to the piano.

Domino’s musical talent quickly became evident, and by his teenage years, he was performing in New Orleans nightclubs. His unique blend of boogie-woogie, rhythm and blues, and swing set him apart, paving the way for a successful recording career.

Rise to Fame

Fats Domino gained national attention in 1950 with his first record, The Fat Man, released under Imperial Records. The song is widely regarded as one of the first rock ‘n’ roll hits, selling over a million copies and earning him his first gold record. His distinctive “wah-wah” vocalizations and energetic backbeat became trademarks of his sound.

Throughout his career, Domino scored an impressive 35 Top 40 hits, including:

• Ain’t That a Shame (1955) – his first mainstream success
• Blueberry Hill (1956) – one of his biggest hits, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard charts
• I’m Walkin’ (1957)
• Walking to New Orleans (1960)
• My Girl Josephine (1960)

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By 1955, he had already achieved five gold records, solidifying his place among rock ‘n’ roll’s earliest and most successful stars. His influence extended beyond his music, shaping the careers of future rock legends like Elvis Presley and The Beatles, both of whom cited him as a major inspiration.

Later Years and Hurricane Katrina

Although Domino’s recording career slowed down in the later decades, he continued performing well into the 1990s and remained a beloved figure in New Orleans. His contributions to music were recognized with numerous accolades, including:

• Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1986)
• A Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1987)
• The National Medal of Arts, presented by President Bill Clinton (1998)

In 2005, tragedy struck when Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. Domino, who had chosen to remain in his home due to his wife Rosemary’s poor health, was initially feared dead after his house was flooded. Graffiti reading “RIP” was even found on his residence. However, it was later confirmed that he had survived, though he lost many of his possessions, including gold records and memorabilia.

Death and Legacy

Fats Domino passed away on October 25, 2017, at the age of 89. He remains one of the most influential figures in rock history, credited with helping shape the genre and bringing rhythm and blues into the mainstream.

Fats Domino Net Worth

Fats Domino net worth was $8 million when he died.