Quick Bio: Kevin DuBrow
| Full Name | Kevin Mark DuBrow |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 29, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | Hollywood, California, USA |
| Date of Death | November 19, 2007 |
| Age at Death | 52 years old |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter |
| Genres | Heavy Metal, Hard Rock |
| Famous For | Lead Vocalist of Quiet Riot |
| Years Active | 1973 – 2007 |
| Marital Status | Never Married |
| Children | None |
| Net Worth at Death | Estimated $10 million |
| Cause of Death | Accidental Cocaine Overdose |
Early Life and Background
Kevin Mark DuBrow was born on October 29, 1955, in Hollywood, California. Raised in a middle-class Jewish family, Kevin grew up surrounded by the cultural vibrancy of Los Angeles. His early exposure to the thriving music scene in Hollywood played a pivotal role in shaping his musical career.
In his teenage years, his family relocated to Van Nuys, where Kevin’s passion for rock music deepened. Inspired by British rock bands such as Led Zeppelin, Humble Pie, and Queen, he began emulating their sound. Steve Marriott of Humble Pie became one of his vocal inspirations, which influenced his future performances.
Kevin’s early musical journey included playing guitar before transitioning to vocals, where he found his true calling. His distinct voice and powerful stage presence became his defining traits.
Age and Physical Appearance
At the time of his death on November 19, 2007, Kevin DuBrow was 52 years old.
Physical Attributes:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Around 165 lbs (75 kg)
- Hair Color: Naturally dark brown; famously known for his curly hair
- Eye Color: Brown
- Distinctive Features: High-energy stage presence, curly hair, and flamboyant stage attire
DuBrow’s physical appearance and style were emblematic of 1980s rock culture. His wild hair and vibrant stage outfits contributed to his charismatic persona that fans adored.
Education
Kevin DuBrow attended local schools in Los Angeles and later completed his education at Grant High School in Van Nuys. While he didn’t pursue college, DuBrow was deeply invested in honing his musical skills from a young age.
Instead of a traditional educational path, DuBrow’s “classroom” was the rock clubs of Los Angeles, where he performed and refined his vocal style. His decision to dive headfirst into music proved pivotal, laying the foundation for his eventual success with Quiet Riot.
His Father
Kevin DuBrow’s father, Howard DuBrow, was a businessman. Though details about Howard’s professional life are limited, his influence on Kevin was notable. Howard’s passing when Kevin was still young reportedly had a profound effect on him, fueling his determination to succeed in music.
Kevin often spoke about his father’s passing as a pivotal moment that motivated him to chase his dreams despite obstacles.
His Mother
Kevin’s mother, Laura DuBrow, played a significant role in his upbringing. Known for being supportive of Kevin’s musical ambitions, she encouraged him to follow his passion. Laura’s support was instrumental, especially during the early, uncertain years of Kevin’s career.
Kevin remained close to his mother throughout his life, often acknowledging her influence during interviews and public appearances.
Children
Kevin DuBrow did not have any children. Despite being involved in various relationships, DuBrow never married nor started a family. His primary focus remained on his career and passion for music.
His rockstar lifestyle, filled with touring and recording commitments, left little room for starting a traditional family.
Who Is Kevin DuBrow?
Kevin DuBrow was an American rock singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the heavy metal band Quiet Riot. Formed in the mid-1970s, Quiet Riot became a pioneering force in the American heavy metal scene, achieving mainstream success in the early 1980s.
Career Highlights:
- Joined Quiet Riot in 1975: Collaborated with guitarist Randy Rhoads, a future Ozzy Osbourne guitarist.
- Breakthrough with “Metal Health” (1983): Became the first heavy metal album to top the Billboard 200 charts.
- Hit Singles: Known for chart-toppers like “Cum On Feel the Noize” and “Metal Health (Bang Your Head)”.
- Outspoken Personality: DuBrow was famous for his candid (and sometimes controversial) opinions about other rock bands and the music industry.
- Continued Performances: Despite being fired from Quiet Riot in 1987, he rejoined in the early 1990s, continuing to tour until his death.
Kevin’s powerful vocals, combined with his larger-than-life personality, solidified his place in rock history.
Current Life (Legacy and Influence)
Although Kevin DuBrow passed away in 2007, his legacy remains deeply rooted in rock and metal music. Quiet Riot’s groundbreaking success, especially with “Metal Health,” paved the way for heavy metal’s mainstream acceptance in the 1980s.
Legacy Highlights:
- “Metal Health” Album: Continues to be celebrated as a landmark heavy metal record.
- Influence on Artists: Modern rock and metal singers often cite DuBrow’s vocal prowess as inspirational.
- Quiet Riot’s Continuation: The band still performs today, with new vocalists paying tribute to DuBrow’s lasting impact.
- Posthumous Tributes: Various rock musicians and fans continue to honor his contributions through tribute concerts and remastered releases of Quiet Riot albums.
Kevin DuBrow’s dedication to his craft ensures that his influence will endure for generations.
Net Worth
At the time of his death, Kevin DuBrow’s net worth was estimated at $10 million.
Sources of Income:
- Album Sales:
- Quiet Riot’s “Metal Health” sold over 6 million copies in the U.S. alone.
- Touring Revenue:
- Extensive global tours added significantly to his earnings.
- Royalties:
- Continued to earn from radio play, streaming, and licensing deals.
- Merchandise Sales:
- Band merchandise and memorabilia sales remained a constant revenue stream.
Even after his passing, DuBrow’s estate benefits from royalties, thanks to Quiet Riot’s enduring popularity.
Conclusion
Kevin DuBrow was more than just the frontman of Quiet Riot—he was a pioneering force in bringing heavy metal into mainstream culture. His distinctive voice, energetic performances, and outspoken personality made him a standout figure in the rock world.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges, DuBrow’s passion for music never wavered. His contributions to rock and metal are immortalized through Quiet Riot’s timeless hits, ensuring that Kevin DuBrow’s name and legacy will live on forever in the hearts of music lovers.
FAQ: Kevin DuBrow
1. What was Kevin DuBrow’s net worth at the time of his death?
Kevin DuBrow’s net worth was estimated at $10 million when he passed away in 2007.
2. Was Kevin DuBrow married?
No, Kevin DuBrow was never married and did not have any children.
3. How did Kevin DuBrow die?
He passed away from an accidental cocaine overdose on November 19, 2007.
4. What is Kevin DuBrow most famous for?
Kevin DuBrow is best known as the lead vocalist of Quiet Riot and for hits like “Cum On Feel the Noize” and “Metal Health.”
5. Did Kevin DuBrow have children?
No, Kevin DuBrow did not have any children.
6. How old was Kevin DuBrow when he died?
He was 52 years old at the time of his death.
