Uncovering Mahalia Jackson’s Incredible Net Worth

Mahalia Jackson is one of the most beloved and acclaimed gospel singers of all time. Her impressive career spanned more than five decades and her songs have been covered by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley and Ray Charles. She was an activist who supported the civil rights movement and was an early supporter of Martin Luther King Jr., performing at some of his marches. Mahalia Jackson was an inspiring woman who was able to transcend her humble beginnings to achieve great things. But what was Mahalia Jackson’s net worth?

Early Life & Career

Mahalia Jackson was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1911. She was the oldest of six children raised in a poor family in the Seventh Ward of the city. At the age of five, Jackson began singing and performing in the church choir. She soon began to gain recognition for her powerful vocal range and her stirring performances.

Jackson began to take her music profession in the late 1920s and early 1930s, playing with various local bands and traveling around the country to perform. By 1936, Jackson had released her first album and by the 1940s her career began to really take off. Jackson’s singing style gained the attention of popular record labels, leading her to sign with Decca Records in 1947.

Jackson was one of the first gospel performers to crossover to the mainstream pop charts, bringing her distinct sound to a much wider audience. She performed throughout the US and Europe, wowing audiences with her soulful renditions of gospel songs. In 1954 she sang at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, introducing Martin Luther King Jr. at the famous event and delivering an unforgettable performance of “Take My Hand, Precious Lord”. In addition to her singing career, Jackson was an activist and worked to support civil rights causes throughout her life.

Mahalia Jackson’s Net Worth

Given her immense success, it’s no surprise that Mahalia Jackson had a sizable net worth when she passed away in 1972. According to reports, Jackson’s net worth was estimated to be around $200,000. This amount would be equal to around $1.2 million in today’s money.

Jackson accrued her wealth through her successful career as a gospel singer. During her career, she released over twenty studio albums and made numerous recordings for live performances. She also went on several worldwide tours and made numerous radio and television appearances. This allowed her to make a comfortable living off her music, leading to her impressive net worth.

In addition to her music career, Jackson was also able to earn money from public appearances and endorsements. She was often asked to make speeches and perform at various events, earning her an additional source of income.

Legacy & Assets

Though she has passed away, Mahalia Jackson’s legacy lives on. Her music continues to be celebrated around the world, with her songs being covered by countless artists. In addition, several documentaries have been made about her life, such as the 1978 film Mahalia Jackson: The Queen of Gospel.

When Mahalia Jackson passed away in 1972, she left behind a considerable estate. This included various assets such as real estate, stocks, and bonds. She left her home in Chicago to her son and her music royalties to her daughter. The rest of her estate was split among her siblings.

Mahalia Jackson’s Awards & Honors

Throughout her career, Mahalia Jackson received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her immense talent. In 1971, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and she was also the recipient of the Francis J. Gorman Award. In 1972 she was presented with the NAACP Spingarn Medal and in 1975, she received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mahalia Jackson’s Charitable Work

Mahalia Jackson was not only an incredibly talented singer but also a generous philanthropist. She was actively involved in numerous charitable causes and organizations throughout her life. She often donated money and time to various churches, schools and organizations that helped the downtrodden. Jackson also used her fame to raise money for various charities and causes, performing benefit concerts and other fundraising events.

Conclusion

Mahalia Jackson was an extraordinary woman who achieved incredible things throughout her life. Her immense talent and passion for her music touched millions of people around the world, creating a legacy that will live on for generations. Her net worth at the time of her death was estimated to be around $200,000, the equivalent of $1.2 million today. Although she is gone, her music, legacy and charitable work will continue to inspire future generations.