Gary Kemp Biography 2025 Net Worth, Salary, Age, Career, Personal Life, Family, & More

Gary Kemp Biography Gary James Kemp born October 16, 1959 is an English songwriter, musician, and actor, best known as the lead guitarist, backing vocalist, and principal songwriter for the new wave band Spandau Ballet. Kemp was responsible for writing the lyrics and music for all 23 of Spandau Ballet’s hit singles, including iconic tracks like “To Cut a Long Story Short,” “True,” “Gold,” “Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On),” “Through the Barricades,” and “Only When You Leave.” Spandau Ballet became one of the most successful British bands of the 1980s, selling over 25 million records worldwide. In 2012, Kemp received the Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection. His brother, Martin Kemp, is the band’s bassist and also a well-known actor. Since 2018, Kemp has been touring the US and Europe with the psychedelic rock group Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets.

Gary Kemp Biography

Gary Kemp was born in Islington, London, in October 1959. On his 10th birthday, he received his first guitar from his parents. In the 1970s, Gary and his younger brother Martin attended Anna Scher’s acting school to study drama. In 1978, Gary formed a band called “The Makers,” and when Richard Miller left, Martin took over on bass. Gary then renamed the band Spandau Ballet. The group’s big break came in March 1980 when they were featured in a documentary on ITV.

The documentary’s airing caused a surge of interest from record companies, and they ultimately signed with Chrysalis, attracted by the lucrative offer. For the next decade, Spandau Ballet produced a string of hits, including “To Cut a Long Story Short” (1980), “Chant No. 1 (I Don’t Need This Pressure On)” (1981), “True” (1983), “Gold” (1983), “Only When You Leave” (1984), and “Through the Barricades” (1986).

Gary Kemp Biography Details

Details Gary Kemp

Gary James Kemp is an English songwriter, musician and actor, best known as the lead guitarist, backing vocalist, and principal songwriter for the new wave band Spandau Ballet.

1. Born: 16 October 1959 (age 65 years), Smithfield, London
2. Children: Finlay Munro Kemp, Milo Wolf Kemp, Kit Kemp
3. Spouse: Lauren Barber (m. 2003), Sadie Frost (m. 1988–1995)
4. Music groups: Spandau Ballet, Band Aid (1984 – 1984), Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets (Since 2018), Rich Kids
5. Siblings: Martin Kemp

Early Life

Gary James Kemp was born on October 16, 1959, to parents Eileen and Frank Kemp at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in Smithfield, London. He grew up in Islington, London, in a working-class family. Kemp attended Rotherfield Junior School and Dame Alice Owen’s Grammar School in Islington, later transferring to Potters Bar for his sixth form.

Kemp was involved in the Anna Scher Children’s Theatre drama club, alongside his brother Martin. He began his acting career in various Children’s Film Foundation television and film productions, starting with Junket 89 in 1970, which starred Richard Wilson (later known for One Foot in the Grave). Kemp played the lead role in the 1972 film Hide and Seek, alongside Roy Dotrice, which had a Royal premiere attended by the Duchess of Kent. Kemp was interviewed about his role for Film 72.

Career Beginnings and Key Milestones

In 1978, Gary co-founded a band initially called “The Makers,” which later evolved into the iconic group Spandau Ballet. The band rose to fame in the early 1980s, becoming a prominent force in the New Romantic movement. Their debut single, “To Cut a Long Story Short,” reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart in 1980, and their 1983 anthem “True” became one of their biggest hits, topping the UK charts and gaining global success. Beyond their music, Spandau Ballet also played a significant role in shaping fashion and pop culture in the 1980s.

Notable Works and Achievements

Aside from his music career, Gary Kemp has pursued acting, with notable roles in films such as The Krays (1990), where he portrayed Ronnie Kray, and The Bodyguard (1992), alongside Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner. In 2012, Kemp was honored with the Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection, recognizing his significant contributions to music.

Current Relevance and Recent Updates

Gary Kemp remains actively involved in both music and the arts. He continues to work on solo projects and collaborate with other artists. One of his latest endeavors is co-hosting the podcast Rockonteurs with bassist Guy Pratt, where they discuss the stories behind legendary songs and albums, reflecting Kemp’s deep passion for the music industry.

Personal Life and Relationships

Gary Kemp was married to actress Sadie Frost in 1988, and they had a son, Finlay Munro Kemp, before divorcing in 1995. In 2003, Kemp married costume designer Lauren Barber, and together they have three sons: Milo Wolf, Kit, and Rex.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

• Gary Kemp received his first guitar on his 10th birthday, a gift from his parents.
• He co-wrote “True,” Spandau Ballet’s signature hit.
• Kemp has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, although details are scarce.

Charitable Work and Legacy

While specific information on Kemp’s charitable activities is limited, his contributions to the music industry and cultural landscape are undeniable. Spandau Ballet’s influence on the New Romantic movement and 1980s pop culture remains significant to this day.

Future Plans and Impact on Culture

Gary Kemp continues to have a presence in the music industry with ongoing projects and collaborations. His podcast Rockonteurs is still going strong, and his work ensures that his influence on the world of music and culture will continue to be felt for years to come.

Gary Kemp Net Worth

Gary Kemp’s estimated net worth is approximately $10 million, thanks to his successful career in music and acting, as well as royalties from Spandau Ballet’s popular tracks and his acting roles.