Norman Greenbaum is an American singer, songwriter, and musician best known for his hit song “Spirit in the Sky,” which became a cultural phenomenon in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Born on November 20, 1942, in Malden, Massachusetts, Greenbaum grew up in a Jewish family and started playing music at a young age.
He attended Boston University but dropped out to pursue his musical career in California, where he became part of the psychedelic rock scene of the late 1960s. Throughout his career, Greenbaum has released numerous albums and collaborated with various artists, but it is his iconic song “Spirit in the Sky” that cemented his place in music history. As of 2023, his net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Education
Norman Joel Greenbaum was born on November 20, 1942, in Malden, Massachusetts, USA. He grew up in a Jewish family and started playing guitar at a young age. He attended Boston University but dropped out to pursue a career in music.
Musical Career
Norman Greenbaum began his musical career in the mid-1960s, playing in various bands and performing at local clubs in the San Francisco Bay Area. The most famous song of Norman Greenbaum, “Spirit in the Sky,” reached #3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 after he wrote and recorded it in 1969.
The success of “Spirit in the Sky” made Norman Greenbaum a household name and earned him worldwide recognition. He continued to release music throughout the 1970s, including the hit song “Canned Ham.” However, he never achieved the same level of success as his debut single.
Norman Greenbaum’s music has appeared in several movies, TV shows, and commercials throughout the years. His iconic song “Spirit in the Sky” has been covered by many artists and has become a cultural phenomenon.
Personal Life
Norman Greenbaum has been married twice and has two children. He currently resides in Santa Rosa, California, where he continues to make music.
Net Worth
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Norman Greenbaum’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million. He has earned his wealth through his successful music career and the royalties he receives from the use of his songs in movies, TV shows, and commercials.
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FAQs:
Q: What inspired Norman Greenbaum to write “Spirit in the Sky”?
A: He stated that he wrote “Spirit in the Sky” as a gospel song with a rock and roll beat, drawing inspiration from the music he listened to while growing up in a Jewish family, and aimed to blend the two genres.
Q: How many albums has Norman Greenbaum released?
A: He has released several albums throughout his career, including “Spirit in the Sky,” “Petaluma,” and “Back Home Again.”
Q: Has Norman Greenbaum won any awards for his music?
A: He has not won any major music awards, but the industry has recognized his significant impact. In 2015, he was inducted into the San Francisco Walk of Fame.
Q: What other famous musicians has Norman Greenbaum collaborated with?
A: He has collaborated with many famous musicians over the years, including Ringo Starr, Eric Burdon, and Dr. John.
Q: Is Norman Greenbaum still making music?
A: Yes, He is still making music and performing live shows. He continues to release new music and is active on social media, where he interacts with his fans.
Conclusion:
Norman Greenbaum is a true icon of American music, best known for his hit song “Spirit in the Sky.” Despite never reaching the same level of success as his debut single, he has continued to make music and remains a beloved figure in the music industry.