Who Is Wolfman Jack? Age, Biography and Wiki
Wolfman Jack, born on January 21, 1938, was a pioneering American radio DJ and television host who became an iconic figure in the music industry. He captivated audiences with his distinctive voice and flamboyant personality until his passing in 1995. In 2025, while he is no longer with us, his contributions to the music and entertainment world continue to be celebrated. His unique broadcasting style made a lasting impact on radio and paved the way for future generations of DJs.
| Occupation | Musicians |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 21, 1938 |
| Age | 57 Years |
| Birth Place | Brooklyn, New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 1 July, 1995 |
| Died Place | Belvidere, North Carolina, U.S. |
Popularity
Wolfman Jack's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Wolfman Jack was known for his eye-catching persona, often donning signature accessories that made him stand out. His exact physical statistics, although not officially documented, reflected his vibrant personality. Estimated height: around 6 feet (183 cm), weight: approximately 180 lbs (82 kg). However, it's important to note that physical measurements are less significant in his legacy compared to his influential work in the entertainment industry.
Many of the Mexican border stations broadcast at 150,000 watts, three times the U.S. limit, meaning that their signals were picked up all over North America, and at night as far away as Europe and the Soviet Union. At XERF, Smith developed his signature style (with phrases such as, "Who's this on the Wolfman telephone?") and widespread fame.
The border stations made money by renting time to Pentecostal preachers and psychics, and by taking 50% of the profit from anything sold by mail order. The Wolfman did pitches for dog food, weight-loss pills, weight-gain pills, rose bushes, and baby chicks. Even a pill called Florex, which was supposed to enhance one's sex drive, was sold.
"Some zing for your ling nuts", the Wolfman would say.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Wolfman Jack's personal life, particularly his relationships, has been the subject of intrigue among fans. He was married to his wife, Louisianna, for many years, and together they supported each other through his career in the spotlight. While there were rumors of other relationships during his rise to fame, his dedication to Louisianna was evident throughout his life. As of 2025, he is remembered largely for the love and respect he had for his family.
He lived on 12th Street and 4th Avenue and went to Manual Training High School in the Park Slope section. His parents divorced while he was a child.
To help keep him out of trouble, his father bought him a large Trans-Oceanic radio, and Smith became an avid fan of R&B music and the disc jockeys who played it, including Douglas "Jocko" Henderson of Philadelphia; New York's "Dr.
Jive", Tommy Smalls; the "Moon Dog" from Cleveland, Alan Freed; and Nashville's "John R." Richbourg, who later became his mentor. After selling encyclopedias and Fuller brushes door-to-door, Smith attended the National Academy of Broadcasting in Washington, D.C.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death in 1995, Wolfman Jack had built a significant fortune through his various ventures in radio and television. His estimated net worth at that time was around $4 million. Adjusted for inflation and taking into account his lasting influence, it is believed that his estate has continued to generate revenue through royalties and memorabilia sales, making his legacy financially impactful even decades after his passing.
In 1971, the Mexican government, under pressure from the Roman Catholic church, banned the Pentecostal preachers from the radio, taking away 80% of XERB's revenue. Smith then moved to station KDAY 1580 in Los Angeles, which could only pay him a fraction of his former XERB income.
Smith capitalized on his fame, though, by editing his old XERB tapes and selling them to radio stations everywhere, becoming one of the first rock-and-roll syndicated programs (as the tapes began to age, they were eventually marketed to oldies stations). He also appeared on Armed Forces Radio from 1970 to 1986.
At his peak, Wolfman Jack was heard on more than 2,000 radio stations in 53 countries. He was heard as far afield as the Wild Coast, Transkei, on Capital Radio 604 based there.
Career, Business and Investments
Wolfman Jack's career began in the late 1950s when he gained popularity for his late-night radio shows that featured rock and roll music. He later transitioned into television, where he hosted shows like "The Midnight Special," showcasing several prominent artists and bands. Beyond broadcasting, he made various investments, including appearances in films and merchandise related to his colorful persona. His shrewd business acumen allowed him to remain relevant in the entertainment industry long after his initial fame.
Wolfman Jack started his recording career in Minneapolis while working at KUXL Radio in 1965 with George Garrett, who helped record the album Boogie with the Wolfman by Wolfman Jack and the Wolfpack on the Bread Label. He was also responsible for engineering, producing, and assembling the band. Wolfman Jack also released Wolfman Jack (1972) and Through the Ages (1973) on the Wooden Nickel label.
Social Network
Though Wolfman Jack was not part of contemporary social media platforms like Instagram or Twitter, his influence continues to resonate in various online communities dedicated to classic radio and rock music. Fans and followers continue to share his legacy through nostalgic posts and discussions highlighting his contributions to music and pop culture.
In his early days, Wolfman Jack made sporadic public appearances, usually as a master of ceremonies for rock bands at Los Angeles clubs. At each appearance, he looked a little different because he had not decided what the Wolfman should look like.
Early pictures show him with a goatee, but sometimes he combed his straight hair forward and added dark makeup to look somewhat "ethnic." Other times he had a big afro wig and large sunglasses. The ambiguity of his race contributed to the controversy of his program.
His audience finally got a good look at him when he appeared in the 1969 film A Session with the Committee, a montage of skits by the comedy troupe The Committee.
Education
Wolfman Jack, whose real name was Robert Weston Smith, attended North Texas State University for some time. Although he never completed a formal college degree, his passion for music and broadcasting drove him to pursue a career that would ultimately make him an educational example of doing what you love. His life serves as an inspiration for aspiring DJs and entertainers everywhere.
