What is Clive Calder's Net Worth?
Clive Calder, a prominent South African businessman and record executive, has a net worth of $2.3 billion. Calder accumulated his wealth as the co-founder of Zomba Group and its subsidiary, Jive Records.
Early Life
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in December 1946, Clive Ian Calder nurtured a passion for music from a young age. He played bass guitar for various bands and had an unusual hobby of reading tax manuals.
Career Beginnings
In 1971, Calder launched his first record company in South Africa. Subsequent relocation to London led to the establishment of the Zomba Group with partner Ralph Simon. By 1978, Zomba expanded its operations to include management and publishing, setting up additional offices in New York City.
Success with Jive Records
In 1981, Zomba introduced its first record label, Jive Records, which specialized in rap and hip-hop music. The label experienced significant success, leading to the creation of Silvertone Records in 1988. By 1990, Calder became the sole owner of Zomba.
Jive Records represented some of the most popular artists in the world, including NSYNC, Britney Spears, and the Backstreet Boys.
Sale and Philanthropy
In 2002, Calder sold Zomba to a German media group for a staggering $2.74 billion. He left the music industry in 2003, and Jive's artists were eventually transferred to RCA. During his peak, Calder was recognized as the wealthiest music billionaire in the U.K.
Currently, Clive Calder resides in the Cayman Islands and dedicates his time to Elma Philanthropies, his foundation that operates extensively in Africa.
