Who Is Mickey Gilley? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Mickey Gilley's life spanned 86 remarkable years, during which he achieved immense success in country music. He was born in Natchez, Mississippi, and grew up in Ferriday, Louisiana. Mickey was known for his energetic performances, with hits that included "Stand by Me" and "Room Full of Roses." His influence extended beyond music into the creation of Gilley’s nightclub in Pasadena, Texas, which was a hotspot for country music lovers. Gilley’s work helped pioneer the Urban Cowboy movement in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
| Occupation | Country Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 9, 1936 |
| Age | 86 Years |
| Birth Place | Natchez, Mississippi, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 7 May, 2022 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Mickey Gilley's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although Mickey Gilley’s specific physical measurements are not widely documented, he was known for his charismatic presence and engaging stage performance. In terms of height, he was approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall (173 cm) and had a robust physique that complemented his dynamic on-stage persona.
In July 2009, Gilley was helping a neighbor move some furniture when he fell with the love seat falling on top of him, crushing four vertebrae. The incident left him temporarily paralyzed from the neck down, but after intense physical therapy he was able to walk again and return to the stage a year later. However, he still lacked the hand-eye coordination necessary to play the piano.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Mickey Gilley was married to his first wife, Ellen, in 1957, and they had three children together before their divorce in 1961. Later, he married a woman named Marcia on July 24, 1962, and they remained together until his death. Mickey's relationships were often public due to his fame, but throughout his life, he maintained a focus on his music and family, cherishing his role as a father and grandfather.
Gilley's first wife was Geraldine Garrett, whom he married in 1953 (when he was 17 years old); they divorced in 1961. She was the mother of three of his four children (Keith Ray, Michael, and Kathy). She died on March 6, 2010. Gilley's second wife, whom he married in 1962, was Vivian McDonald. Together they had a son, Gregory (1966–2022).
She died in 2019. Gilley was double first cousins with both Jerry Lee Lewis and evangelist Jimmy Swaggart of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 2022, Mickey Gilley had an estimated net worth of around $20 million. His wealth stemmed primarily from his successful music career, which included numerous chart-topping hits and live performances. Additionally, Gilley's nightclub and various business ventures contributed significantly to his financial standing, making him one of the most respected figures in the country music industry.
Career, Business, and Investments
Mickey Gilley’s career took off during the 1970s, and he became a household name in country music. His distinctive blend of country and rock music appealed to a broad audience, leading to multiple awards, including several Academy of Country Music awards. In addition to his music career, Gilley was a successful businessman with ventures in restaurants and entertainment venues, notably the famous Gilley’s nightclub, which was featured prominently in the film “Urban Cowboy.” His investments and entrepreneurial pursuits showcased his multifaceted talents beyond music.
By 1980, Gilley sought the crossover success that many country stars (including Eddie Rabbitt, Juice Newton, Kenny Rogers, The Oak Ridge Boys, and Dolly Parton) were experiencing. His career got new life when his cover of the soul standard "Stand by Me" was used in Urban Cowboy. As the movie became successful, so did "Stand by Me".
It topped the country charts, hit the Top 5 on the Adult Contemporary charts, and made the Pop Top 40. He also tried his hand at acting, taking a dramatic role in an episode of The Fall Guy in 1982 ("The Silent Partner"); he later returned to the series in a cameo as himself.
Social Network
While Mickey Gilley was largely active in the music scene during the pre-social media era, he did engage with fans through various platforms towards the end of his life. After his passing, his legacy continues to resonate with fans globally. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram celebrate his contributions to country music, with fan pages dedicated to sharing memories, music, and memorabilia related to his storied career.
Education
Mickey Gilley pursued a career in music rather than traditional educational paths. His musical journey began in his childhood, influenced by his family and the local music scene in Louisiana. Mickey was influenced by the sounds of his upbringing, which ultimately shaped his artistic style and helped him develop into one of the icons of country music.
For many years, Gilley lived in the shadow of his well-known cousin, Jerry Lee Lewis, a successful singer and musician in the 1950s and early 1960s. Gilley grew up in Louisiana, just across the Mississippi River from where Lewis grew up.
Gilley's family moved to the east side of Houston, Texas, in the 1940s, where he attended Galena Park High School. He was primarily a guitarist at the time and took his guitar to school to entertain classmates.
