Shakin Stevens Net Worth: Life, Career, and Wealth of a Rock Star
Shakin Stevens, born Michael Barratt on March 4, 1948, in Cardiff, Wales, is one of the UK’s most iconic rock and roll singers. He became the country’s top-selling singles artist of the 1980s and remains popular for his energetic performances and nostalgic style. Many fans are also curious about Shakin Stevens Net Worth, reflecting his successful career and lasting impact on the music industry.
As of now, Shakin Stevens net worth is estimated at $20 million, derived from music sales, live tours, and royalties from hits like Merry Christmas Everyone. His enduring appeal continues to contribute to his financial success.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Shakin Stevens, born Michael Barratt, was the youngest of 11 children in a working-class family in Cardiff, Wales. His father, Jack Barratt, worked as a builder and coal miner, while his mother, May Barratt, was a homemaker. Growing up in the Ely district, Stevens was deeply influenced by rock and roll music, developing a passion that would shape his future career.
In the mid-1960s, he formed his first band, The Denims, performing rock and roll covers in local venues. Although mainstream success eluded him at the time, these early experiences laid the foundation for his later achievements.
Key Early Life Points
- Born on March 4, 1948, in Cardiff, Wales
- Youngest of 11 children in a working-class family
- Father, Jack Barratt, was a builder and coal miner.
- Mother, May Barratt, was a homemaker.
- Formed his first band, The Denims, in the mid-1960s
- Played rock and roll covers in local clubs
- Early exposure to music shaped his future career.
Breakthrough, Rise to Fame & Shakin Stevens Net Worth

Shakin Stevens breakthrough came in 1977 when he was cast as Elvis Presley in the West End musical Elvis!, which brought him into the spotlight and paved the way for his solo career. By the early 1980s, he had achieved widespread commercial success with a series of hit singles, including This Ole House, Green Door, and Oh Julie.
Between 1980 and 1986, Stevens scored 33 Top 40 hits in the UK, making him the most successful male solo artist of the decade. His energetic performances, nostalgic rockabilly style, and ability to connect with audiences secured his enduring place in the music industry.
Shakin Stevens Net Worth Breakdown
Shakin Stevens estimated net worth of $20 million comes from decades in the music industry. He earns a substantial income from royalties, especially from his holiday hit Merry Christmas Everyone, which re-enters the charts every year.
Additionally, live performances, album sales, and merchandise contribute to his wealth. Over the years, he has also invested in properties and businesses, further increasing his financial standing.
Category | Details |
Estimated Net Worth | $20 million |
Primary Income Source | Music sales, royalties, live performances |
Real Name | Michael Barratt |
Date of Birth | March 4, 1948 |
Age | 77 years old |
Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
Weight | Approximately 75 kg (165 lbs) |
Partner | Sue Davies (since 2010) |
Nationality | Welsh |
Birthplace | Cardiff, Wales |
Father | Jack Barratt |
Mother | May Barratt |
Career Highlights and Achievements of Shakin Stevens Net Worth

Shakin Stevens has had a prolific career spanning several decades, marked by numerous chart-topping singles and albums. He released over 20 studio albums and 69 singles, achieving multiple number-one hits in the UK and internationally.
His music, characterized by a lively rockabilly style and nostalgic energy, earned him a dedicated fan base and widespread recognition. Stevens influence continues today, with digital releases introducing his classic songs to new generations of listeners.
Notable Achievements
- Released over 20 studio albums and 69 singles
- Achieved four UK number-one singles, including This Ole House and Merry Christmas Everyone
- Gained international recognition with hits in Ireland, Australia, Sweden, and Norway
- Maintained enduring popularity through digital music platforms
- Recognized as one of the UK’s top-selling singles artists of the 1980s
Shakin Stevens Net Worth: Enduring Legacy & Annual Income
One of Shakin Stevens most lasting contributions to music is his 1985 holiday hit Merry Christmas Everyone, which has become a seasonal classic and re-enters the UK charts every year. This enduring popularity ensures a steady income from royalties, estimated at around £130,000 annually.
Beyond this iconic song, Stevens continued performances and occasional album releases contribute to his financial stability, reinforcing his reputation as a lasting figure in the music industry and highlighting the long-term value of his work.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond his music career, Shakin Stevens has made strategic business ventures that have contributed to his overall wealth. He owns several properties, including a residence in the Welsh countryside, and has invested in the hospitality industry.
These ventures not only diversify his income streams but also demonstrate his entrepreneurial mindset. By balancing his music career with smart investments, Stevens has strengthened his financial stability and ensured long-term security.
Key Business Ventures
- Owns multiple properties in Wales, including a countryside residence
- Operates a restaurant in Cardiff
- Demonstrates entrepreneurial skills alongside his musical career
Personal Life and Relationships
Shakin Stevens was married to Carole in October 1967, and together they had three children. The couple remained married for 42 years before divorcing in 2009. In 2010, Stevens began a relationship with his manager, Sue Davies, who played a crucial role in supporting him both personally and professionally.
Their relationship has been a stabilizing force in his life, especially after Stevens experienced a serious health scare with a heart attack.
Current Relationship and Family Life
Since 2010, Stevens and Sue Davies have been together, and she continues to manage aspects of his career. Stevens has credited Davies with helping him regain focus and balance in life after his health issues.
Their partnership highlights not only a personal connection but also a professional collaboration that supports his ongoing music endeavours and business activities.
Conclusion: Shakin Stevens Net Worth and Lasting Legacy
Shakin Stevens journey from a working-class upbringing in Cardiff to becoming the UK’s top-selling singles artist of the 1980s is truly remarkable. His dedication to music, energetic performances, and timeless hits like Merry Christmas Everyone have not only earned him a loyal fan base but also a solid financial standing with an estimated net worth of $20 million.
Beyond his music, Stevens has successfully diversified his income through business ventures and property investments, ensuring long-term financial stability. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and innovative financial planning in building both a lasting legacy and wealth.
Fans continue to celebrate his contributions to rock and roll, and his music’s enduring popularity guarantees that his influence and income will remain strong for years to come. Shakin Stevens proves that iconic music, when combined with savvy career management, can create both fame and financial security.