Guy Berryman is a well-known musician who is best known for being the bassist of the legendary British rock band Coldplay. Today, we delve into the life of a man whose fingers dance on the drums as if they were born to do just that. His beats are the rhythmic backbone of the legendary band Coldplay, and his unassuming charm has won millions of hearts worldwide. He’s none other than the beat maestro, Will Champion.
Net Worth: $100 Million
Salary: –
Date of Birth: Jul 31, 1978
Place of Birth: Southampton, England
Gender: Male
Profession: Drummer, Musician, Multi-instrumentalist, Percussionist
Will Champion Early Life
Born on July 31, 1978, in Southampton, England, Will Champion’s journey into the world of music was as organic as it could get. His parents, Timothy and Sara Champion were not just academics but also deep-rooted music enthusiasts. Thanks to them, Will was surrounded by an eclectic mix of music genres right from his childhood.
Will’s father served as the Director of Archaeology at English Heritage, but he was also a lover of folk music. His mother, meanwhile, was an anthologist and a violinist. The musical influence of his parents was profound, shaping young Will’s understanding and love for music.
Will received his education at the esteemed Peter Symonds College and later at University College London (UCL). It was at UCL where he would meet three individuals – Chris Martin, Jonny Buckland, and Guy Berryman – who would go on to form Coldplay, one of the most iconic bands of the 21st century.
Despite being an excellent guitarist and bassist, Will was chosen as the drummer of the band. It’s worth noting that Will had to learn the drums from scratch after joining the band. It’s a testament to his dedication and love for music that he was able to master the drums in such a short span of time, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Will Champion Personal Life
Will Champion, despite the spotlight that comes with being a member of a globally recognized band, has successfully kept his personal life private and grounded. He married Marianne Dark, a teacher, in 2003. The couple has been blessed with three children: a daughter named Ava, and twins Juno and Rex. Will’s dedication to his family, and his ability to balance a phenomenal music career with a simple, loving home life, further endears him to his fans worldwide.
An interesting tidbit about Will is his love for cricket. A true Englishman, Will is a fan of the Hampshire Cricket Team and often shares his cricket enthusiasm with his bandmates. He also plays the harmonica, mandolin, piano, and guitar, showcasing his multi-instrumental talents that extend beyond the drums.
Will Champion Career
When it comes to his career, Will Champion’s name is synonymous with Coldplay. The band was formed in 1996, and since then, they have released numerous hit albums, with songs that have become anthems for a generation.
Will’s impact on Coldplay’s music extends beyond his drumming skills. He has contributed to the band’s harmonies and backing vocals, adding depth and texture to their unique sound. One of the notable moments in his career was when he sang lead vocals on the song “Death Will Never Conquer” during the Viva La Vida tour.
Coldplay’s debut album, “Parachutes” (2000), featuring the hit single “Yellow,” was their breakthrough into the music scene. The album was a commercial success and won the Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album. The band, with Will’s drum beats, went on to produce more chart-topping albums like “A Rush of Blood to the Head” (2002), “X&Y” (2005), “Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends” (2008), and “A Head Full of Dreams” (2015), to name a few.
Each of these albums showcased Will’s evolution as a drummer, his beats becoming more complex and his style more distinctive. His drumming on songs like “In My Place,” “Clocks,” and “Viva la Vida” has become iconic, demonstrating his technical proficiency and creative flare.
Apart from Coldplay, Will made a cameo appearance in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones” in 2013. He was part of the band that played during the infamous Red Wedding scene, showcasing his acting chops.
Will Champion Net Worth
Will Champion’s career as the drummer of Coldplay has not just earned him global fame but also a sizeable fortune. As of 2023, Will’s estimated net worth is around $95 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth.
Much of his wealth comes from his association with Coldplay, which has released multiple chart-topping albums and sold millions of copies worldwide. But his earnings are not limited to his role as a drummer. Will also contributes to songwriting and vocals, which adds to his revenue stream.
Moreover, the band’s electrifying live performances draw huge crowds, and their worldwide tours add a significant chunk to his net worth. Coldplay’s “A Head Full of Dreams Tour” (2016-2017), for example, is reported to have grossed over $500 million, making it the third-highest-grossing concert tour in history.
Will’s wealth is not just a reflection of his extraordinary talent, but also his hard work and relentless passion for music. His commitment to creating a unique, unforgettable auditory experience for his fans is evident in every beat he plays.
Despite his impressive net worth, Will has managed to stay grounded. He is known for his charitable endeavors and is deeply involved in various philanthropic activities. Along with his bandmates, Will has supported numerous charitable organizations and causes, further solidifying his status as a true champion – on and off the stage.
