Country music fans are no strangers to the incredible talent and memorable personality of Jerry Reed. Known for his unique guitar-picking style, distinctive voice, and infectious humor, Reed was a true icon of the genre. This day, we’ll explore his early beginnings, his rise to fame, and the net worth he accumulated throughout his remarkable career.
Net Worth: $3 Million
Date of Birth: Mar 20, 1937 – Sep 1, 2008
Place of Birth: Atlanta, Georgia
Gender: Male
Profession: Actor, Musician, Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist
Jerry Reed Early Life
Born as Jerry Reed Hubbard on March 20, 1937, in Atlanta, Georgia, Reed was destined for greatness. Raised by his mother, who recognized his musical inclinations, she ensured he had access to a guitar and lessons from an early age. His talent became evident quickly as he mastered the guitar and began writing songs at just 16 years old.
Reed’s big break came in 1958 when Capitol Records signed him after the legendary publisher Bill Lowery discovered him. He quickly released his first single, “If the Good Lord’s Willing and the Creek Don’t Rise.” While it didn’t make a huge splash, it marked the beginning of a lifelong career in music.
The 1960s brought great opportunities for Reed, as he made a name for himself as a talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He eventually caught the attention of Chet Atkins, one of the most respected guitarists in country music history. Impressed by Reed’s skills, Atkins signed him to RCA Records in 1965, marking the start of a fruitful partnership.
Throughout the ’60s and ’70s, Reed released a string of successful albums and singles, like “Guitar Man,” “Amos Moses,” and “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot.” Alongside his musical career, Reed ventured into acting, with his most famous role being Cledus “Snowman” Snow in the 1977 film “Smokey and the Bandit,” alongside Burt Reynolds.
Jerry Reed Personal Life
Jerry Reed was known for his friendly and down-to-earth personality, which made him a beloved figure both on and off the stage. He married his high school sweetheart, Priscilla Mitchell, in 1959, and the couple had two daughters, Seidina and Charlotte. The family was close-knit, and Reed often spoke about the importance of family in his life. Priscilla, who was also a talented singer, occasionally performed with her husband and even released a few singles of her own.
Reed was an avid fisherman and enjoyed spending time outdoors. He was also known for his sense of humor, often incorporating comedy into his music and performances. This lightheartedness was evident not only in his music but also in his acting roles, where he often played loveable and humorous characters.
Jerry Reed Career
Jerry Reed’s career spanned over four decades, and he became known for his unique guitar-playing style, which combined fingerpicking and flat-picking techniques. As a songwriter, he penned numerous hits, both for himself and other artists. Some of his most famous songs include “Guitar Man,” which was later covered by Elvis Presley, and “Amos Moses,” which became a crossover hit on both the country and pop charts.
In addition to his solo work, Reed collaborated with many other legendary artists throughout his career. He formed a close friendship and working relationship with Chet Atkins, which led to several successful albums and an instrumental duo called “Me and Jerry” (later renamed “Me and Chet”). The pair won a Grammy Award in 1971 for their album “Me and Jerry.”
Reed’s acting career began in the late 1970s, with his role as Cledus “Snowman” Snow in “Smokey and the Bandit.” The film was a commercial success and led to two sequels, in which Reed reprised his role. Over the years, he appeared in numerous other films and television shows, such as “Gator,” “High-Ballin’,” and “The Waterboy.”
Although his acting career gained him further fame, Reed never abandoned his first love – music. He continued to release albums throughout the ’80s and ’90s, experimenting with various musical styles and collaborating with other artists. In 1998, he was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, a testament to his incredible talent as a songwriter.
In the early 2000s, Reed’s health began to decline, and he was forced to slow down his touring and recording schedules. However, he remained active in the music industry, occasionally performing at charity events and making guest appearances on other artists’ records. In 2007, he released his final album, “The Gallant Few,” which featured a collection of patriotic songs.
Jerry Reed passed away on September 1, 2008, at the age of 71. His loss was felt deeply within the country music community, and tributes poured in from fans and fellow musicians alike. Despite his passing, Reed’s music continues to inspire and entertain, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come.
Jerry Reed Net Worth
Jerry Reed’s net worth is a testament to his versatility and skill as an entertainer. Over the years, he accumulated a net worth of approximately $3 million. While this number may not seem as high as some other celebrities, it’s important to remember that Reed’s career took place primarily in the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s, when the entertainment industry was different than it is today.
His net worth can be attributed to various factors, including album sales, touring, and acting. Reed’s hit songs, such as “East Bound and Down” from “Smokey and the Bandit,” contributed significantly to his wealth. Additionally, his acting career, which spanned over three decades and included roles in over 20 films and TV shows, played a part in increasing his net worth.
Reed’s collaboration with other artists also contributed to his financial success. He was a respected session musician, known for his innovative fingerpicking guitar style, and played on recordings for various prominent artists such as Elvis Presley. Additionally, Reed won multiple awards throughout his career, including two Grammy Awards and several Country Music Association (CMA) awards.
It’s also important to consider Reed’s investments and personal business ventures, which may have helped contribute to his net worth. For example, he owned a recording studio in Nashville, which allowed him to produce music for other artists and earn royalties from their work.
