The Unbelievable Net Worth of Mahalia Jackson in 2019

Mahalia Jackson, known as the “Queen of Gospel Music” and the “Queen of the Blues,” was one of the most important and influential singers of the 20th century. She was a pioneering figure in the gospel genre, which was largely unknown prior to her emergence as a major artist in the 1950s and 1960s. Jackson’s talent, range, and artistry won her recognition as one of America’s greatest vocalists and she earned numerous awards and accolades during her lifetime. Additionally, her career was a financial success and her estate is estimated to be worth millions of dollars.

Early Life

Jackson was born in New Orleans on October 26, 1911. Her mother ran a boarding house for musicians and her father was a factory worker. Although her parents divorced when she was five years old, Jackson’s mother provided her with a strong Christian foundation. When she was seven, she sat in church and sang the traditional hymn “In the Upper Room.” Her performance earned her a standing ovation and a rave review from the local newspaper. From then on, she was encouraged to continue singing in church and she eventually developed her own gospel style.

Career Success

In 1937, Jackson moved to Chicago where she was discovered by Thomas A. Dorsey, gospel music’s leading figure at the time. He became her mentor and helped her develop her career. After she signed a recording contract with Decca Records in 1947, Jackson released her first album, “Mahalia Jackson Sings the Blues.” She scored her first hit with “Move On Up a Little Higher,” which sold half a million copies and made her a star.

In the 1950s and 1960s, Jackson gained widespread acclaim and recognition for her singing. She performed at important venues around the world and sang at the inaugurations of President Eisenhower and President Kennedy. Additionally, she sang at the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965 and at Martin Luther King Jr.’s funeral in 1968. In 1971, she was presented with the prestigious United Nations Peace Medal.

Financial Success

In addition to her acclaim as an artist, Jackson was also a financial success. During her career, she earned millions of dollars from her various albums, tours, and appearances. Additionally, she owned a music publishing company and several real estate investments.

At the time of her death in 1972, Jackson was worth an estimated $4 million. After her death, her estate was managed by her son, Daniel, and continued to generate income from her musical works and other investments. After accounting for inflation, Jackson’s estate is estimated to be worth more than $20 million in 2019.

Legacy

Jackson’s legacy lives on through her music and her influence on the gospel and blues genres. A number of her songs have been covered by major artists and have become staples in the music industry. Additionally, she has been recognized by numerous organizations and institutions around the world.

In 2008, she was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and in 2015, she was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame. Jackson is also the recipient of a posthumous Grammy Award and has had several streets and schools named in her honor.

Final Thoughts

Mahalia Jackson was one of the most influential singers of the 20th century. She was a pioneering figure in the gospel and blues genres and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Additionally, she was a financial success and her estate is estimated to be worth millions of dollars. Jackson’s legacy lives on through her music and her influence on American music will continue to be felt for generations to come.