Who Is Vernon Reid? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on August 22, 1958, Vernon Reid is a celebrated British-American guitarist and songwriter, best known for his role as the lead guitarist for the influential rock band Living Colour. He was born in London, England, and later moved to the United States, where he significantly contributed to the rock music scene. In 2025, Reid will be 66 years old and continues to impact music through his innovative sound and social activism. Known for his unique blend of rock, funk, jazz, and heavy metal, he remains a prominent figure in the music industry.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | August 22, 1958 |
| Age | 66 Years |
| Birth Place | London, England |
| Horoscope | Leo |
| Country | England |
Popularity
Vernon Reid's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Vernon Reid stands at an impressive height of 6 feet (183 cm) and maintains a weight of around 170 pounds (77 kg). His athletic build, characterized by his fit physique, reflects his active lifestyle, often engaging in music tours and performances.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Vernon Reid is known to be in a committed relationship with his longtime partner, whose identity has largely remained private. While Reid has chosen to keep details of his personal life away from the public eye, he occasionally shares insights about his experiences and the significance of love and support in the music industry. Reid has two children, emphasizing the importance of family in his life.
During the early years of Living Colour, Reid used a multi-colored ESP Mirage with EMG pickups, and he was an endorser of the A/DA MP-1 preamp. During the mid-1980s, Reid commissioned a highly figured maple custom guitar from Vancouver-based luthier Martini Guitars.
This guitar was later acquired by Bob Wiseman, a founding member of the band Blue Rodeo. In later years, Reid has used custom Hamer guitars, and started a relationship with Parker Guitars, who built the DF824VR Vernon Reid signature model based on their Dragonfly design.
it has EMG-X pickups in a H SS layout with 5-way switching system, a Floyd Rose vibrato (a first for Parker), and a Roland GK divided pickup. In 2016, he switched to PRS and was working on a signature model with them. The result is the PRS S2 VR Vela.
Net Worth and Salary
Vernon Reid's estimated net worth in 2025 is around $5 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful career as a musician, songwriter, and producer. Reid's relentless work ethic and collaborations with various artists have significantly contributed to his financial success. With a legacy of albums, tours, and merchandise, he continues to maintain a lucrative income stream.
Career, Business and Investments
Vernon Reid's career spans over four decades, beginning in the 1980s. As the founder of Living Colour, Reid played a crucial role in the band's success, which included hits like "Cult of Personality." In addition to his work with Living Colour, Reid has collaborated with several notable artists across multiple genres, showcasing his versatility and creativity.
Beyond music, Reid is actively involved in various business ventures, including music production and artist management. He is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts and investments in projects that align with his values, particularly those focused on promoting diversity and representation in the arts.
Vernon Alphonsus Reid (born 22 August 1958) is a British-born American guitarist and songwriter best known as the founder of the rock band Living Colour. Reid was named No.
66 on Rolling Stone magazine's 2003 list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, and in August 2023, was ranked #42 in Rolling Stone Magazine top 250 Greatest Guitarists of all time.
Critic Steve Huey writes, "[Reid's] rampant eclecticism encompasses everything from heavy metal and punk to funk, R&B and avant-garde jazz, and his anarchic, lightning-fast solos have become something of a hallmark as well."
Social Network
Vernon Reid engages actively with his fans on various social media platforms. His Instagram account (@vernonreid) boasts a substantial following, where he shares snippets from his artistic journey, behind-the-scenes moments, and his thoughts on music and culture. He also uses Twitter to interact with fans and critique social issues, showcasing his commitment not only to music but to advocacy as well.
Education
Reid attended the illustrious Mannes School of Music in New York City, where he honed his skills as a guitarist and musician. His formal education, combined with extensive collaborations and performances, has shaped him into a prominent figure in the rock scene. The blend of classical training and real-world experience has allowed him to push the boundaries of musical genres.
