Renowned American trumpeter and music executive Herb Alpert commands an impressive net worth of $850 million. This extraordinary wealth stems primarily from his groundbreaking musical career and astute business investments in the entertainment industry. Alpert achieved legendary status as the leader of Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass, a band that remarkably outsold The Beatles in 1966 by moving over 13 million albums.
Throughout his illustrious career, Alpert released 28 albums, with five reaching #1 status, 14 achieving Platinum certification, and 15 earning Gold status. However, his massive fortune largely derives from co-founding A&M Records and Rondor Music alongside partner Jerry Moss.
Business Empire and Record Label Success
A&M Records Foundation
In 1962, Alpert and Jerry Moss established A&M Records, which evolved into the world’s largest independent record company over 25 years. The label became home to legendary artists including The Carpenters, Sting, Peter Frampton, The Police, Cat Stevens, and Sheryl Crow.
Strategic Sales and Acquisitions
The business partners sold A&M Records to PolyGram in 1989 for $500 million cash. In 1998, they successfully sued PolyGram, securing an additional $200 million settlement. Subsequently, they sold Rondor Music to Universal Music Group in 2000 for approximately $400 million.
Musical Career Highlights
Early Beginnings
Born March 31, 1935, in Los Angeles, California, Alpert grew up in Boyle Heights as the son of Ukrainian and Romanian Jewish immigrants. He began trumpet lessons at age eight and performed at teenage dances before serving in the Army.
Tijuana Brass Phenomenon
Alpert conceived his signature sound after experiencing a Mexican brass band at a Tijuana bullfight in the early 1960s. His debut single “The Lonely Bull” became a Top 10 hit in 1962, launching an unprecedented career trajectory.
| Career Milestone | Year | Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| A&M Records Founded | 1962 | Co-founded with Jerry Moss |
| Tijuana Brass Peak | 1966 | Outsold The Beatles |
| Grammy Awards | Career Total | 8 Wins |
| Album Sales | Worldwide | 75+ Million |
| Billboard Record | 1966 | 5 Albums in Top 20 Simultaneously |
Philanthropic Endeavors
The Herb Alpert Foundation
Alpert established The Herb Alpert Foundation, supporting youth education, arts programs, and environmental initiatives. Notable contributions include:
- $5 million grant to Harlem School of the Arts (2012)
- $10.1 million donation to Los Angeles City College (2016)
- $9.7 million facility upgrade for Harlem School of the Arts (2020)
According to the Internal Revenue Service, the Foundation maintains tax-exempt status while supporting educational institutions nationwide.
Personal Life and Legacy
Alpert married Sharon Mae Lubin (1956-1971) and later wed recording artist Lani Hall in 1973. He remains the only musician to achieve #1 status on Billboard Hot 100 as both vocalist and instrumentalist, cementing his unique position in music history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How did Herb Alpert make most of his money?
A: Primarily through co-founding A&M Records and Rondor Music, selling both companies for approximately $1.1 billion combined.
Q: What was Herb Alpert’s biggest musical achievement?
A: In 1966, his Tijuana Brass outsold The Beatles and placed five albums simultaneously in Billboard’s Top 20.
Q: Is Herb Alpert still active in music?
A: Yes, he continues performing and recording while managing his philanthropic foundation.