Johnny Clegg's Net Worth and Legacy
Johnny Clegg was a British-born South African musician and anthropologist who held a net worth of $5 million at the time of his death in 2019. Born on June 7, 1953, in Bacup, United Kingdom, Clegg became a celebrated figure through his musical accomplishments and sociocultural impact. Often referred to as 'Le Zoulou Blanc' (The White Zulu), he uniquely fused Zulu with English lyrics and blended African music with Western styles.
Musical Journey with Juluka and Savuka
Clegg co-founded the South African band Juluka with Zulu musician and gardener Sipho Mchunu. Together, they bridged cultural gaps through music, achieving international success. Juluka toured Europe, releasing multiple platinum and gold albums before disbanding in 1986 when Mchunu returned home to tend to family commitments. Despite the split, both artists pursued solo careers, leaving lasting impressions.
Career as a Solo Artist
Clegg continued to shine as a solo artist, often reuniting with his former bandmates. His academic interests matched his musical pursuits, teaching anthropology at the University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, where he was influenced by social anthropologist David Webster. Tragically, Webster’s life was cut short by assassination in 1989.
Notable Contributions
In 2002, Clegg contributed music to Jane Goodall’s Wild Chimpanzees DVD, making a remarkable impression with several songs and background scores. Additionally, he co-wrote 'Diggah Tunnah' with Lebo M. for Disney’s 2004 animated film 'The Lion King 1½'.
Legacy and Passing
On July 16, 2019, Johnny Clegg passed away at the age of 66 after battling cancer. His contributions to music and anthropology remain influential, marking him as an iconic figure in South African culture and beyond.
