Donnie Iris Net Worth
Donnie Iris has long been one of rock music’s foremost performers, having first come to prominence through his stints with both Jaggerz and Wild Cherry before going solo with Cruisers.
He is best-known for his hit song Ah! Leah! and boasts many other top hits under his belt.
Iris is also well-recognized as an advocate for charity work.
Early Life and Education
Donnie Iris began singing at weddings at age five and appeared on local television at eight. While in high school, he formed the Fabutons vocal doo-wop group with Chuckie Hasson, Lou Delessandro, and Anthony Matteo.
Donnie Iris of the Cruisers spends his offstage hours running a mortgage company. Though not his original goal, mortgage work provides steady income while keeping him off the road.
Iris was honored with induction into the Pittsburgh Rock ‘n’ Roll Legends along with Lou Christie and Porky Chedwick in 2017. His signature song, “Ah! Leah!” starts off with an extravagant instrumental introduction that can whip audiences into a frenzy; then invites audience members for an a cappella rendition.
Professional Career
Dominic Ierace began his musical journey at an early age of eight as a singer, performing weddings and television shows as well as winning young talents competitions. Soon thereafter he formed Fabutons with friends to perform gigs across Lawrence and Beaver Counties of Pennsylvania.
He gained prominence during the 1970s as a member of the Jaggerz, a one-hit wonder who were responsible for “The Rapper.” Later, he played with funk rock group Wild Cherry.
At present, Iris is performing and frontman of Donnie Iris and The Cruisers band, earning his money through royalties and album sales. Additionally, he has released numerous live albums and compilations. Some of his hit songs include Ah! Leah! No Muss No Fuss Fortune 410 Back on the Streets etc.
Achievement and Honors
Donnie Iris is an established American rock musician and songwriter who has amassed significant wealth through his career. His hit songs have been regularly played on radio stations for decades, earning royalties that add up significantly over time. Additionally, Donnie earns revenue through concerts and merchandise sales.
Donnie has long been a staple in the local music scene and continues to garner a dedicated fan base. His repertoire of hits includes The Rapper, Ah Leah and Love Is Like a Rock – three songs which remain fans’ favorites today.
In 2015, he received the Pittsburgh Rock ‘n’ Roll Legends Award in the Modern Era category for his down-to-earth demeanor and many charitable donations he made over his long career – making him an irreplaceable member of Pittsburgh culture.
Personal Life
Donnie Iris was born on 28 February 1943 in Elwood City, Pennsylvania and is widely recognized as a famous and esteemed Rock Singer. As of 2023, Donnie amassed an immense net worth through his music career alone.
After Wild Cherry disbanded, Iris continued his success through Donnie Iris and The Cruisers, recording albums such as No Muss No Fuss, Fortune 410, The High And Mighty King Cool and Back On the Streets among others.
The band features musicians including keyboardist Mark Avsec, bass guitarist Paul Goll and drummer Tommy Rich. Over time they have recorded several live albums, such as at Nick’s Fat City in Pittsburgh. While performing regularly the group still boasts a loyal following with their catchy tunes.
Net Worth
Donnie Iris is estimated to have amassed an estimated net worth of $6 Million. Much of his wealth can be attributed to his successful career in music as both a composer and performer, earning money both live and through merchandise sales.
He is best-known for his hit 1980s song Ah! Leah, which reached number 29 on the Billboard Hot 100. A staple on rock radio in the early 80s, he has maintained a dedicated following over time.
Born Dominic Ierace of middle class Pennsylvania, Iris first made his mark as part of The Jaggerz in 1970 – responsible for 1970’s #2 Billboard hit “The Rapper”. Later he toured with funk rock group Wild Cherry following their 1976 hit Play That Funky Music. Following an unfortunate lawsuit, his later career as mortgage company executive and law professor were interrupted, so he returned to music by joining Pittsburgh-based Michael Stanley & The Cruisers.
