Who Is Ricky Wilson (guitarist)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ricky Wilson, born on March 19, 1953, was an extraordinary American guitarist recognized for his work with the rock band The B-52's. Throughout his short life, he made a significant impact on the music scene, blending punk and new wave sounds with unparalleled originality. Sadly, he passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire musicians today. In 2025, he would have been 72 years old, and he is remembered as a pioneering figure in the music industry.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 19, 1953 |
| Age | 32 Years |
| Birth Place | Athens, Georgia, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | Georgia |
| Date of death | 12 October, 1985 |
| Died Place | N/A |
Popularity
Ricky Wilson (guitarist)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details on Ricky Wilson's height and weight were less documented, he was known for his slim build and energetic stage presence. As an iconic performer, he often wore flamboyant outfits that contributed to his unique persona in the entertainment industry.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ricky Wilson was known to be a private person when it came to his personal life. He was never married and largely kept details of his relationships out of the public eye. However, it is reported that he had romantic connections throughout his life, including a notable relationship with fellow band member Cindy Wilson. His dedication to his music career often took precedence over public relationships, contributing to his mystique.
Upon graduation from the University of Georgia in 1976, Wilson kept in touch with Strickland and they toured Europe, eventually returning and taking jobs at the Southeastern Stages bus station in Athens, Georgia where Strickland's father was the manager.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his passing in 1985, Ricky Wilson's estimated net worth was around $2 million. This wealth primarily came from his success with The B-52's, who achieved numerous hits and accolades during the late '70s and early '80s. In 2025, his music has continued to earn royalties, further cementing his financial legacy.
Career, Business and Investments
Ricky Wilson's career was defined by his creative prowess in the music industry. As a founding member of The B-52's, he played a crucial role in developing the band's unique sound. Their 1979 debut album featured iconic tracks that became synonymous with the new wave genre.
In addition to his musical career, Wilson explored various creative ventures, including art and design, demonstrating his diverse talents beyond music. Though he did not have traditional investments, the influence of his work remains a significant asset in the cultural space.
Wilson (née Mairholtz), in Athens, Georgia. He was the elder brother of Cindy Wilson. At an early age, Wilson developed an interest in music and learned how to play folk guitar from the PBS series Learning Folk Guitar.
Upon entering Clarke Central High School, Wilson had upgraded to a Silvertone guitar and, to tape his music, purchased a two-track tape recorder with money earned from a summer job at the local landfill.
Social Network
Although Ricky Wilson did not live in the social media era, his legacy continues to thrive on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where fans and new audiences celebrate his work. Official band accounts and fan pages keep his memory alive, sharing archival footage, images, and stories about him and The B-52's.
Education
Ricky Wilson attended the University of Georgia, where he studied art. His artistic background informed not only his music but also his fashion sense and overall artistic vision. His time in college helped him forge connections that would be instrumental in the formation of The B-52's.
From 1969 to 1971, Wilson and Strickland collaborated with high school friends Pete Love of Louisville and Athens native Owen Scott III in performing together as the four-member band Black Narcissus.
