John Richard Deacon (born August 19, 1951) is an English retired musician best known as the bass guitarist for the legendary rock band Queen. He wrote several of the group’s most successful songs, including the Top 10 hits “You’re My Best Friend”, “Another One Bites the Dust”, and “I Want to Break Free”.
He also co-wrote classics like “Under Pressure”, “Friends Will Be Friends”, and “One Vision”. Beyond performing, Deacon played a key role in the band’s financial management.
RELATED: DD Osama Height, Net Worth, Age, Real Name, Career & More
Table of Contents
John Deacon Net Worth
Will Estes has a net worth of $5 million. He is best known for playing Will McCullough on The New Lassie (1989–1992). Estes portrayed Jack Kerouac in the 2007 short film Luz Del Mundo, written by Ty Roberts and David Trimble, directed by Ty Roberts, and produced by Ryan McWhirter and John Pitts.
He has also appeared in photographs featured in the books Hollywood Splash and Men Before 10 AM Too. Estes earned four Young Artist Award nominations for his roles in The New Lassie and Kirk.
Early Life
John Richard Deacon was born on Sunday, August 19, 1951, at St Francis Private Hospital, London Road, Leicester, to Arthur Henry and Lilian Molly Deacon (née Perkins).
He had an older brother, Robert, who died at age 6 in July 1953, and a younger sister, Julie, born in January 1956. His father worked at the Norwich Union insurance company, and in 1960 the family moved to Oadby. Among friends and bandmates, Deacon was affectionately nicknamed “Deacs” or “Deacy”.
Career
Deacon joined his first band, The Opposition, in 1965 at the age of 14. The group mainly played covers of chart hits, with Deacon on rhythm guitar, an instrument he purchased using money borrowed from the band’s founder, Richard Young.
In the following year, he switched to bass after the original bassist was fired for not improving his skills at the same pace as the other members.
Personal Life
Deacon has often been described as the quiet member of Queen. While the band agreed he was the right bassist, he rarely spoke during rehearsals and generally avoided arguments.
He has lived in Putney, south-west London, with his wife, Veronica Tetzlaff, since their marriage on January 18, 1975, and they have six children together. One key reason Queen split from Trident, their original management company, was its refusal to lend Deacon money for a house deposit.
Does John Deacon Still Get Royalties from Queen?
Yes, John Deacon continues to receive royalties from Queen’s music. As the songwriter of the band’s best-selling single, “Another One Bites the Dust,” he has secured a lucrative stream of income that contributes significantly to his net worth.
Conclusion
John Deacon’s legacy as a member of Queen is marked not only by his musical contributions but also by his significant net worth. Despite his quiet demeanor, his impact on rock music and his financial success speaks volumes.
FAQs about John Deacon
- What is John Deacon’s role in Queen?
- John Deacon was the bass guitarist and one of the songwriters for Queen.
- How did John Deacon contribute to Queen’s sound?
- Deacon contributed with his unique bass lines, songwriting, and occasional use of keyboards and guitars.
- Is John Deacon still involved with Queen?
- While retired from performing, Deacon still earns royalties from Queen’s music and consults on financial matters.
- What are some of John Deacon’s most notable songs with Queen?
- “Another One Bites the Dust” and “You’re My Best Friend” are among his most famous contributions.
- How has John Deacon’s early interest in electronics influenced his music career?
- His background in electronics helped Queen in creating their distinctive sound, showcasing his technical skills alongside his musical talent.
