Robert John Gaudio (born November 17, 1942) is an American songwriter, singer, musician, and record producer, best known as the keyboardist and backing vocalist of the pop/rock band The Four Seasons. He wrote or co-wrote most of the band’s biggest hits, including “Sherry”, “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)”, and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” for Frankie Valli. Though no longer performing with the group, Gaudio and Valli remain co-owners of the Four Seasons brand.
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Bob Gaudio Net Worth
Bob Gaudio has a net worth of $80 million, earned largely as a producer and songwriter. By 1975, he was in a relationship with Judy Parker, who later became his wife and frequent songwriting partner.
Their collaboration included the hit “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night),” which Gaudio said was inspired by an early moment in their relationship. The couple married in 1981 and remained together until Parker’s death in September.
Education
Born in the Bronx, New York, Bob Gaudio was raised in Bergenfield, New Jersey, where he attended Bergenfield High School. His mother worked for Prentice Hall, and his father in a paper factory.
He studied piano with Sal Mosca and showed early talent. At age 15, he co-wrote the hit “Short Shorts” with The Royal Teens. In 1958, he met Frankie Valli and the Four Lovers while promoting the song. Gaudio soon left the Royal Teens, preferring songwriting over touring, and later joined The Four Seasons.
Career
In 1960, after a failed audition at a bowling alley called the 4 Seasons in Union Township, Bob Gaudio and Frankie Valli formed the Four Seasons Partnership with Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. Gaudio wrote their first No. 1 hit, “Sherry”, in just 15 minutes.
With Bob Crewe, he co-wrote many classics, including “Big Girls Don’t Cry”, “Walk Like a Man”, “Rag Doll”, and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”. Their songs also became hits for artists like The Osmonds, Tremeloes, and Walker Brothers.
Personal life
Bob Gaudio was married to Brit Irene Olsen until the early 1970s. They had two daughters, Lisa Gaudio and Danielle Lahlezar, and a son, Shannon Gaudio. Near the end of their marriage, they co-wrote three songs about a disconnected couple. Olsen died in 1989 at age 47.
Gaudio admitted he is “hardly a model father or grandfather.” By 1975, he began a relationship with Judy Parker, who became his wife and songwriting partner. They married in 1981 and remained together until Parker’s death in 2017.
Are Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio Still Friends?
Despite the ups and downs common in the music industry, Bob Gaudio and Frankie Valli have maintained a strong friendship over the years. Gaudio’s involvement in casting for “Jersey Boys” underscores his deep connection with Valli and their shared history.
Conclusion
Bob Gaudio’s journey from a teenager with a passion for music to a wealthy music legend exemplifies the potential of talent combined with hard work and innovation. His legacy, marked by timeless hits and a groundbreaking musical, continues to influence the music industry and inspire new generations.
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FAQs about Bob Gaudio Net Worth
- How much is Bob Gaudio worth?
- Bob Gaudio has a net worth of $80 million.
- What contributed to Bob Gaudio’s net worth?
- His earnings from the Four Seasons, songwriting royalties, and his involvement in “Jersey Boys” have significantly contributed to his wealth.
- Are Bob Gaudio and Frankie Valli still collaborating?
- Yes, Gaudio and Valli maintain a close friendship and professional relationship.
- What are some of Bob Gaudio’s most famous songs?
- Some of his most famous works include “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” and “Walk Like a Man.”
- Did Bob Gaudio produce music for other artists?
- Yes, Gaudio has produced and written for numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, Diana Ross, and Michael Jackson.
