David Gates: Age, Net Worth, Family, and Career Highlights

David Gates, born David Ashworth Gates on December 11, 1940, is a soft rock legend best known as the lead singer of Bread band. He played a major role in shaping 1970s music, creating timeless classic rock ballads like “Make It with You”, “If”, and “Everything I Own”. His smooth voice and heartfelt lyrics made him one of the greatest singer-songwriters of his time. His work as a music producer and session musician in the Los Angeles music scene helped him gain recognition before he found fame. At 84 years old, he lives a private life, enjoying the success of his past achievements.

As of 2025, David Gates’ net worth is estimated to be $3 million, mainly from songwriting royalties and past record sales. He stepped away from the industry after his retirement from music, choosing a quiet life. However, his influence on 1970s soft rock continues, and his songs remain popular across generations.

Key Details:

Attribute	Details
Real Name	David Ashworth Gates
Date of Birth	December 11, 1940
Age	84 years old (as of 2025)
Birthplace	Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
Nationality	American
Profession	Singer-songwriter, Music Producer
Famous As	Lead Singer of Bread Band
Genres	Soft Rock, Classic Rock
Years Active	1957 – Present (Retired)
Notable Songs	“Make It with You,” “If,” “Everything I Own,” “Baby I’m-a Want You”
Net Worth	$3 million
Spouse	Jo Rita Gates (m. 1959)
Children	Four
Education	University of Oklahoma
Residence	California, USA
Legacy	Soft Rock Legend, 1970s Music Icon

Early Life and Family Background

David Gates was born on December 11, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. His father was a band director, and his mother was a piano teacher. Growing up in a musical family, he learned to play instruments at a young age. He joined a high school band and developed a passion for songwriting.

As a teenager, he played in The Accents band, performing locally in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He later met Leon Russell, a fellow musician, and they worked together. Inspired by the rock and roll era, he moved to Los Angeles. There, he pursued a career as a session musician and started working with famous artists.

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Career Beginnings and Key Milestones

After moving to Los Angeles, David Gates worked as a session musician and music producer. He collaborated with stars like Pat Boone, Elvis Presley, and Chuck Berry. His skills in songwriting and production quickly gained attention in the Los Angeles music scene.

In 1964, he wrote and produced “Popsicles and Icicles”, a Billboard Hot 100 hit. However, his major breakthrough came in 1968 when he formed Bread band. The group became a defining act in 1970s soft rock, releasing several hit songs that became classics.

Notable Works and Achievements

Bread band became famous with songs like “Make It with You”, “If”, and “Everything I Own”. These tracks climbed the Billboard Hot 100, making the band a household name. The band’s smooth melodies defined soft rock, influencing many artists.

Their music earned them a place in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame. David Gates was praised for his emotional songwriting and heartfelt lyrics. His ability to craft classic rock ballads made him one of the best singer-songwriters of his time.

Current Relevance and Recent Updates

Even after decades, David Gates’ music career remains influential. His songs are still played on radio stations and streaming services. Covers of “If” and “Everything I Own” have introduced his music to younger audiences.

Many fans ask, Where is David Gates now? He lives on a ranch in Northern California. Since his retirement from music, he has stayed out of the public eye. However, his legacy continues through his timeless music.

Personal Life and Relationships

David Gates married Jo Rita, his high school sweetheart, in 1959. Their marriage has lasted over six decades. Unlike many classic rock musicians, he focused on family instead of fame. His private life has always been separate from his career.

He has four children, three of whom are lawyers, and one is a cardiothoracic surgeon. While many stars lived fast-paced lives, David Gates’ personal life remained peaceful. He preferred spending time with his family rather than staying in the spotlight.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

As of 2025, David Gates’ net worth is estimated to be $3 million. Most of his income comes from songwriting royalties and past music industry achievements. His songs continue to generate revenue through radio play and streaming platforms.

Despite his success, he leads a simple life. He has never been interested in extravagant lifestyles. Unlike other 1970s rock bands, he chose a quiet life after retirement from music. His earnings allow him to enjoy his time away from the industry.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

David Gates wrote “Everything I Own” as a tribute to his father. Many fans assume it’s a love song, but it was actually about his deep respect for his dad. The song later became one of his biggest hits.

He was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity at the University of Oklahoma. Before forming Bread band, he played with Chuck Berry and worked as a session musician for Elvis Presley. His early work helped him refine his skills in rock and roll influences.

Charitable Work and Legacy

Although David Gates’ philanthropic efforts are private, his music has supported many causes. His songs have been used in charity events and fundraisers. His heartfelt lyrics have also provided comfort to many listeners.

David Gates contributions to soft rock legend status continue to inspire musicians today. He was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, honoring his impact on classic rock musicians. His music remains a powerful part of 1970s music history.

Future Plans and Impact on Culture

There are no known plans for David Gates to return to music. Since his retirement from music, he has stayed away from the public. However, his influence on soft rock remains strong.

His storytelling style continues to inspire new artists. David Gates timeless work with Bread band ensures that his legacy will never be forgotten. His name is forever tied to the golden age of 1970s soft rock.

FAQ’s

What is David Gates’ net worth?

David Gates has an estimated net worth of $3 million, primarily earned from music royalties, songwriting career, and performances with the Bread band.

How old is David Gates?

David Gates was born on December 11, 1940, making him 84 years old as of 2025. He gained fame in the 1970s soft rock era.

What are David Gates’ most famous songs?

His biggest hits include “Make It with You,” “If,” “Everything I Own,” and “Baby I’m-a Want You”, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts.

Is David Gates still performing music?

David Gates has retired from music and lives a private life. However, his classic rock ballads continue to influence artists worldwide.

Who is David Gates married to?

David Gates has been married to Jo Rita Gates since 1959. They have four children, including three lawyers and a cardiothoracic surgeon.

Conclusion 

David Gates is a soft rock legend who made a lasting impact on 1970s music. As the lead singer of Bread band, he created beautiful classic rock ballads that people still love today. Songs like “Make It with You”, “If”, and “Everything I Own” remain popular. His work as a singer-songwriter and music producer helped shape the Los Angeles music scene. Even though he left the industry, his music lives on.

At 84 years old, David Gates’ net worth is around $3 million, earned from songwriting royalties and past record sales. After his retirement from music, he chose a peaceful life with his family. His songs continue to inspire new artists, proving his influence on 1970s soft rock. Though he stays out of the spotlight, his fans will always remember him as a classic rock musician who changed the world of music.