With Pete Burns net worth 2020 at the forefront, a colorful tapestry unfolds of an eccentric musician whose life was a kaleidoscope of success and controversy. Like a rebellious teenager, Pete Burns burst onto the scene with a fiery passion for music that shook the foundations of the music industry.
Pete Burns, the lead singer of the iconic new wave band Dead or Alive, built a music legacy that transcended time. His chart-topping hits like “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” and “Brand New Lover” left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Pete Burns Net Worth 2020

Pete Burns, the enigmatic lead singer of the iconic 80s new wave band Dead or Alive, left an indelible mark on the music scene with his bold style, captivating stage presence, and unmistakable voice. Born on August 5, 1959, in Beachton, Cheshire, England, Pete grew up in a tumultuous household, where his mother struggled with depression and addiction. This tumultuous upbringing significantly shaped his worldview, influencing his songwriting and artistic expression.
Burns’ early life experiences not only instilled in him a deep emotional depth but also fostered a profound understanding of the human condition.
Early Influences and Musical Beginnings
Burns’ formative years were marked by a deep passion for music, particularly the sounds of David Bowie, the Sex Pistols, and Elvis Presley. Drawing inspiration from these icons, Pete began to develop his unique style, which blended elements of post-punk, new wave, and glam rock. This eclectic sound would eventually come to define Dead or Alive’s signature sound. In 1980, Burns co-founded the band with Steve Patrick, Sean Murphy, and Joseph Hughes, marking the beginning of an incredible musical journey.
Creative Output and Net Worth
Throughout his career, Pete Burns released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including ‘Sophisticated Boom Boom’ (1985), ‘Youthquake’ (1986), and ‘Nude’ (1989). These releases contributed significantly to his net worth in 2020, with sales figures and royalties from these albums remaining substantial despite the passage of time. Some of his most notable songs, such as ‘You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)’ and ‘Brand New Lover,’ continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
- ‘You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)’
Released in 1985, this iconic single became a crossover hit, topping the UK Singles Chart and reaching the Top 10 in several countries.
- ‘Brand New Lover’
This 1986 single showcased Burns’ signature vocal style, with its innovative blend of new wave and pop elements.
- ‘Something in My House’
This 1987 single highlighted Dead or Alive’s ability to craft infectious, dance-friendly tracks.
Income Comparison
Burns’ music career generated significant revenue through album sales, touring, and merchandise. In 2020, his net worth stood at approximately $7 million, a testament to the enduring popularity of Dead or Alive’s music. Comparatively, other notable sources of income for artists in 2020 included touring and merchandising revenues, sync licensing, and songwriting royalties. Notable figures, such as Madonna and Elton John, earned substantial income from touring and merchandise sales.
- Touring and merchandise sales – Estimated annual income for top artists: $10-20 million (Pete Burns: $1-3 million)
- Sync licensing and songwriting royalties – Estimated annual income for top artists: $5-10 million (Pete Burns: $1-2 million)
Factors That Contributed to Pete Burns’ Net Worth in 2020

Pete Burns was a household name in the 1980s as the lead singer of the British pop-rock band Dead or Alive. His unique vocals and distinctive appearance made him a staple of the era, and the band’s music continued to attract a loyal fan base well into the 2000s. As the frontman of Dead or Alive, Pete Burns played a significant role in generating revenue for his net worth in 2020.The band’s most successful single, “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record),” released in 1985, remains one of the best-selling singles of all time, with estimated sales of over 1 million copies worldwide.
This iconic hit, combined with hits like “Lover Come Back to Me” and “Brand New Lover,” cemented Dead or Alive’s status as a major player in the 1980s music scene. The band’s consistent touring and numerous sold-out shows throughout the years also helped to pad Pete Burns’ bank account.
The Role of Dead or Alive in Generating Revenue for Pete Burns’ Net Worth in 2020
- Pete Burns’ vocals on Dead or Alive’s hits generated significant income from album sales, with their highest-charting album, “Sophisticated Boom Boom,” peaking at number 9 on the UK Albums Chart.
- The band’s numerous tours and live performances, including supporting acts like The Smiths, contributed to Burns’ net worth.
- Dead or Alive’s influence on the early 1980s new wave movement earned them a dedicated fan base, resulting in consistent merchandise sales and royalties.
The Most Profitable Business Ventures of Pete Burns in 2020
Burns’ Business Ventures and Their Impact on His Net Worth in 2020
Burns diversified his income streams by investing in various business ventures outside of music. Some of the most profitable of these included:
- Publishing: Burns released two autobiographies, ‘Portrait of Tracy and ‘Dreams That Zebras Dare to Dream.’ Although the sales figures are not available, publishing books have generated substantial revenue.
- Real Estate: He acquired and sold several properties throughout the years, which likely contributed to his net worth.
Pete Burns’ Utilization of Social Media Platforms to Promote His Work and Increase His Net Worth in 2020
In the 1980s, artists relied heavily on media appearances, music videos, and live performances to gain exposure. However, with the rise of social media, artists have access to a global audience. Pete Burns maintained a strong online presence through various platforms:
- Twitter: Burns frequently interacted with fans, discussed his creative projects, and shared updates about his music and personal life.
- Instagram: He showcased his passion for art, fashion, and architecture, highlighting his unique style and flair.
By leveraging social media platforms, Burns continued to engage with his fan base and build his brand, contributing to his net worth in 2020.By embracing various revenue streams and maintaining his online presence, Pete Burns secured a stable place in the entertainment industry, ultimately impacting his net worth in 2020.
Personal Life and Spending Habits of Pete Burns in 2020: Pete Burns Net Worth 2020

Pete Burns, the iconic lead vocalist of the British pop duo Dead or Alive, lived a life filled with extravagance and flair. In 2020, his personal life and spending habits were as dramatic as his music. Burns’ lifestyle was a testament to his enduring fascination with the excessive and opulent. His love for luxury and extravagance led him down a path of extravagant spending, which, in turn, had a significant impact on his net worth.One notable aspect of Burns’ lifestyle was his penchant for elaborate beauty regimens.
His signature look, which included prominent facial features and androgynous charm, was a staple of 80s pop culture. Burns was particularly famous for his love of plastic surgery and his many attempts to maintain his youthful appearance. According to reports, he underwent numerous facelifts and underwent various forms of cosmetic procedures. Burns’ fascination with beauty and self-preservation was mirrored in his personal and professional life, reflecting his commitment to reinvention and reinventing himself.
Notable Purchases and Investments
Burns’ personal life and spending habits in 2020 revealed a penchant for high-end fashion and exclusive luxury brands. The Dead or Alive frontman often flaunted his impeccable style, featuring bespoke designer suits and extravagant accessories in his music videos and public appearances. Burns also indulged in exclusive cars and real estate, showcasing his wealth and extravagant tastes.
Philanthropic Efforts and Donations
Burns’ philanthropic efforts, though limited, showcased his commitment to charitable causes. He frequently donated to various organizations, often using his platform to raise awareness for marginalized communities and social issues. Burns’ personal connections and associations frequently intersected with charity events and fundraising campaigns.
Notable Relationships and Impact of Personal Life on Net Worth
Pete Burns’ highly publicized relationships and tumultuous personal life significantly impacted his net worth. In 2016, Burns suffered a severe heart attack, which led to several complications and a significant decrease in his physical and mental well-being. His personal relationships, including his marriage to Michael Simpson, were subject to intense media scrutiny and often sparked controversy.
Net Worth in 2020: A Comparison to Other Music Industry Professionals

Pete Burns, the charismatic lead singer of the iconic 80s band Dead or Alive, left an indelible mark on the music landscape. However, Burns’ net worth in 2020, which stood at approximately $12 million, was relatively modest compared to his peers in the music industry. In this comparison, we’ll delve into the factors that contributed to the net worth differences among various musicians in 2020.
Comparison of Net Worth Among Music Industry Professionals, Pete burns net worth 2020
The table below presents a comparison of the net worth of Pete Burns and other musicians in 2020, highlighting their respective music genres, most notable songs, and sources of income.
| Artist | Net Worth (2020) | Music Genre | Most Notable Songs | Sources of Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pete Burns (Dead or Alive) | Approx. $12 million | Pop/Rock | “You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)” | Music sales, royalties, touring |
| Elton John | Approx. $500 million | Rock/Singer-Songwriter | “Rocket Man”, “Tiny Dancer” | Music sales, touring, merchandise, film soundtracks |
| Ariana Grande | Approx. $150 million | Pop | “Thank U, Next”, “7 Rings” | Music sales, touring, endorsement deals |
| Bob Dylan | Approx. $200 million | Rock/Folk | “Like a Rolling Stone”, “The Times They Are a-Changin'” | Music sales, touring, songwriting royalties |
Factors Contributing to Net Worth Differences
The vast disparity in net worth among these musicians can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the longevity and commercial success of their careers played a significant role. Elton John, for instance, has been active in the music industry for over five decades, with a massive catalog of hit songs and sold-out tours. Conversely, Pete Burns’ music career, although iconic, was relatively short-lived and limited in scope.Another crucial factor was their ability to diversify their sources of income.
Elton John, for example, leveraged his music legacy to create successful stage productions, such as the Broadway show “Billy Elliot”, which earned him substantial revenue. Additionally, his business acumen allowed him to invest in various ventures, including real estate and film production.
Notable Business Ventures and Investments
Several of the musicians listed above engaged in notable business ventures and investments, which significantly impacted their net worth in 2020.* Elton John’s acquisition of a 33.33% stake in the London-based hospitality company Ennismore, which owns and operates numerous high-end hotels and restaurants.
- Ariana Grande’s partnership with the beauty giant Sephora to launch her own makeup line, R.E.M Beauty.
- Bob Dylan’s investment in the music streaming platform, Spotify, which has contributed to his substantial net worth.
In conclusion, the net worth of Pete Burns and other musicians in 2020 reflects their unique career trajectories, business savvy, and ability to diversify their sources of income. While Burns’ net worth may have been modest, his impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
Key Questions Answered
What was Pete Burns’ most successful album of all time?
Pete Burns’ most successful album of all time is the self-titled album “Youthquake,” released in 1987.
How did social media impact Pete Burns’ net worth in 2020?
Pete Burns effectively used social media to promote his work and increase his visibility, which positively impacted his net worth in 2020.
Did Pete Burns donate to any notable charities in 2020?
Pete Burns’ charitable contributions to organizations, while not publicly disclosed, demonstrate his commitment to giving back to the community, likely positively impacting his net worth.