Singer Rick Astley’s Family, Bio, Networth & More

Rick Astley is an English singer, songwriter and radio personality who rose to fame in the late 1980s with his dance-pop singles, most notably the international number one hit “Never Gonna Give You Up”. Often referred to as the “cuddly pop star”, Astley became one of the most successful solo artists of the 1980s, selling over 40 million records worldwide. Though he retired abruptly in 1993, Astley made a comeback in 2007 and continues to perform and create new music into the 2020s.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Richard Paul Astley was born on February 6, 1966 in Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire, England. His parents were Horace and Cynthia Astley, and he had one sister, Jayne. Astley’s family was very musical – his father played piano and double bass and performed with local bands. Astley gained an early interest in soul and Motown from his father’s record collection.

After leaving school at age 16, Astley worked as a driver for his father’s market gardening business. In 1985, he auditioned for the music producer Pete Waterman and impressed him with his deep voice and talent for singing, dancing and songwriting. Astley signed to Waterman’s PWL label under the tutelage of producers Mike Stock and Matt Aitken.

Breakthrough Success

In 1987, Astley released his debut single “Never Gonna Give You Up” written by Stock Aitken Waterman. The infectious dance-pop song was an instant success, topping the charts in over 15 countries including the UK and US. It was also the subject of a popular internet meme “Rickrolling” two decades later.

Astley’s debut album Whenever You Need Somebody was released in 1987, containing four singles that all reached the Top 10 in the UK. It became the top selling British album that year. At age 21, Astley had become one of the most popular artists in the world. His signature look with high-top haircut and sneakers became iconic.

Over the next few years, Astley continued releasing hit dance-pop singles like “Together Forever” and “She Wants To Dance With Me.” His rich baritone voice and cheerful demeanor earned him the nickname “the cuddly pop star.” He won numerous awards including a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1988. By 1991, Astley had released 2 studio albums and amassed 8 Top 10 singles.

Retirement from Music

In 1993, Rick Astley abruptly retired from the music industry at age 27 after selling over 40 million records worldwide. He later cited exhaustion from the relentless touring and promotion required to maintain his pop stardom. Astley married his American fiancée Lene Bausager and moved to Denmark, focusing on raising a family away from the spotlight. They had a daughter named Emilie in 1992.

Comeback and Recent Work

In 2001, Astley resurfaced on the music scene with a new song co-written for the Danish film ‘En Kort En Lang’. This inspired him to restart his musical career. He released a covers album titled Portrait in 2005. In 2007, Astley signed a new record deal and released the album The Ultimate Collection: Rick Astley.

Astley’s comeback was boosted by the internet meme “Rickrolling” which involved tricking people into watching the music video for “Never Gonna Give You Up.” The trend introduced him to a new generation of fans. Astley capitalized on this with well-received tours and festival appearances. He released the album 50 in 2016, which peaked at #1 on the UK Albums Chart, becoming his first #1 album since 1987.

Now in his late 50s, Rick Astley continues touring and creating new music, releasing the album Beautiful Life in 2021. He remains a beloved pop icon for his instantly recognizable voice and upbeat tracks that defined the late 1980s. With record sales topping 40 million worldwide, Astley’s enduring catalog has earned him a lasting place in pop music history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rick Astley best known for?

Rick Astley is best known for his 1987 smash hit single “Never Gonna Give You Up” and his dance-pop music at the height of his popularity in the late 1980s. His soulful voice and cheerful persona made him one of the most successful solo acts of the time.

What was his breakthrough song?

Rick Astley’s breakthrough song was “Never Gonna Give You Up,” released in 1987. It was his debut single and became a #1 hit worldwide, propelling him to international pop stardom at age 21.

Why did Rick Astley retire so early?

Rick Astley retired abruptly from music in 1993 at age 27, citing exhaustion from the relentless touring and promotion required to maintain his level of pop fame. He later said he’d accomplished his goals and wanted to focus on family.

Is Rick married?

Yes, Rick has been married to Lene Bausager since 2003. She is a former promoter from America. They met during Astley’s music career and have a daughter together named Emilie, born in 1992.

What was Rick Astley’s comeback album?

Rick Astley’s comeback album was Portrait, released in 2005. It was his first album in over 10 years and contained covers of classic pop/soul songs. Its success reignited Astley’s musical career in his late 30s.

What is Astley’s net worth?

His net worth is estimated to be around $16 million as of 2023. The bulk of his wealth comes from record sales, touring and royalties accumulated at the peak of his pop stardom in the 1980s.

Final Thoughts

With his soulful voice and cheerful pop hits, Rick Astley became one of the biggest stars of the 1980s. Though he abruptly exited the spotlight, his music endures through revival tours and new generations discovering classics like “Never Gonna Give You Up.” Now entering his late 50s, Astley continues sharing his enduring catalog and sunny persona with fans new and old. His passion persists through touring and new releases, capping a remarkable pop career. Rick Astley remains one of the most beloved artists of the 80s for his timeless dance-pop and affable spirit.