Garry Kief is a Houston-based businessman with a prominent career in the entertainment industry. A Texas native, he earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California. Garry is best known for managing the iconic vocalist Barry Manilow and heading Barry Manilow Productions. Since 1981, he has also served as the President and CEO of Stiletto Entertainment. Garry’s expertise extends to managing other notable celebrities, including Lorna Luft, the daughter of Judy Garland, and jazz vocalist Matt Dusk. This article explores Garry Kief net worth, career, personal life, and more.
Biography
| Full Name | Garry Kief |
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1948 |
| Age | Around 76 (as of 2024) |
| Profession | Producer, Manager |
| Marital Status | Married to Barry Manilow |
| Net Worth | $10 million (as of 2024) |
Early Life and Education
Garry Kief was born on August 5, 1948, in Houston, Texas. He graduated in 1970 from the University of Southern California (USC), where he studied journalism, public relations, broadcast journalism, and marketing. As an exemplary student, Kief actively participated in extracurricular activities. He was a member of the USC Knights, a student group involved in university activities and issues, and he also served as the president of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity’s 1970 class. Fluent in French, Kief has maintained a close relationship with USC, serving on the Board of Directors of Sigma Phi Epsilon since 1999. Additionally, he volunteers for various other organizations.
Career
Rise to Prominence
Garry Kief began his career in the entertainment industry and quickly earned recognition for his exceptional skills as a producer and manager. Since 1981, he has served as the President and CEO of Stiletto Entertainment, a global entertainment production company that specializes in concerts, theater shows, and television events. Under his leadership, Stiletto Entertainment has become a major player in the music industry, known for its innovation and world-class productions.
Managing Barry Manilow
Kief is perhaps best known for managing Barry Manilow, one of the most iconic vocalists in the music industry. With his strategic vision and keen business acumen, Kief has overseen Manilow’s highly successful albums, world tours, and television specials. A notable achievement was the creation of “Copacabana,” a cruise ship show featuring Manilow’s music. By 2010, Stiletto Entertainment had expanded to manage performances on at least 15 cruise ships, employing over 350 singers and dancers annually.
Other Notable Clients
In addition to Barry Manilow, Kief has managed other high-profile artists, including:
- Lorna Luft: Daughter of Judy Garland and half-sister of Liza Minnelli, known for her role in Grease 2.
- Matt Dusk: A Canadian jazz vocalist who gained prominence for his work on the soundtrack of First Daughter.
- Straight No Chaser: A popular a cappella group with a devoted fan base.
- Brian Culbertson: A jazz, R&B, and funk musician celebrated for his captivating performances.
Through these collaborations, Kief has cemented his reputation as a trusted manager and producer in the entertainment world.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Beyond his professional achievements, Garry Kief is deeply committed to philanthropy. He supports numerous charitable initiatives, often in collaboration with Barry Manilow. Together, they have contributed to causes like music education, disaster relief, and LGBTQ+ rights. Kief’s efforts reflect his dedication to using his platform for social good.
Personal Life and Relationships
Garry Kief is married to Barry Manilow. The couple first met in 1978, and Kief soon became Manilow’s manager. Originally from Houston, Texas, Kief relocated to Los Angeles, California, and also owns a residence in Las Vegas, Nevada. They married in a private ceremony in April 2014. Kief’s relationship with Manilow is often highlighted as one of the most stable and enduring partnerships in the entertainment world. From his first marriage, Kief has a daughter named Kirsten Kief, though the name of his ex-wife remains unknown.
Garry Kief Net Worth
Garry Kief’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million as of 2024. His wealth primarily comes from his successful career as a producer and manager. Over the years, he has accumulated significant assets and investments, contributing to his overall financial status.
Comparison of Net Worth with Other Celebrities
| Celebrity | Net Worth |
|---|---|
| Garry Kief | $10 million |
| Barry Manilow | $100 million |
| Fiona Shaw | $5 million |
| Howard Stern | $800-$900 million |
Interesting Facts
- Garry Kief has been instrumental in organizing Barry Manilow’s tours and concerts, ensuring their success and smooth execution.
- He is known for his keen business acumen and strategic thinking, which have greatly benefited his clients.
- Despite being a private person, Kief’s work has often put him in the spotlight, especially in relation to Manilow’s career.
Current Status and Future Plans
Currently, Garry Kief continues to manage Barry Manilow and oversee various entertainment projects. He remains active in the industry, always looking for new opportunities to expand his influence and contribute to the success of his clients. His future plans likely include more collaborative efforts and possibly new ventures in the entertainment world.
Social Media Presence
Garry Kief is not very active on social media, preferring to maintain a low profile and focus on his professional responsibilities. However, updates about his work and collaborations can often be found on Barry Manilow’s official Instagram and Twitter accounts.
Conclusion
Garry Kief has made a significant impact on the entertainment industry through his work as a producer and manager. His successful career, personal life with Barry Manilow, and impressive net worth are testaments to his dedication and talent. As he continues to contribute to the industry, Kief’s legacy is sure to endure.
FAQs
Q: What is Garry Kief’s net worth?
A: Garry Kief’s net worth is estimated to be $10 million as of 2024.
Q: Who is Garry Kief married to?
A: Garry Kief is married to Barry Manilow.
Q: What is Garry Kief known for?
A: Garry Kief is known for his work as a producer and manager, particularly for managing Barry Manilow’s career.
Q: Does Garry Kief have any social media presence?
A: Garry Kief maintains a low profile on social media, but updates about his work can be found on Barry Manilow’s official accounts.
Q: What are Garry Kief’s future plans?
A: Garry Kief plans to continue managing Barry Manilow and exploring new opportunities in the entertainment industry.