Steven Van Zandt is a musician, actor, producer, and activist better known as Little Steven. Famous for his work in rock music with Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band and in acting roles, most notably as Silvio Dante on The Sopranos, Van Zandt has amassed a net worth of approximately $80 million. This fortune comes from a decades-long career full of creativity, dedication, and a commitment to his art and beliefs.
Musical Beginnings
Born on November 22, 1950, in Winthrop, Massachusetts, Steven Van Zandt (born Steven Lento) moved to New Jersey early in his musical career. As a child, Van Zandt was into rock music, particularly The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. His first real musical experiences were playing guitar in local bands as a teen, where he developed the technique and stage presence that would define his career.
Van Zandt met Bruce Springsteen in the early 1970s. In 1975, he joined Springsteen’s E Street Band as a guitarist and backup vocalist, contributing to the sound of albums like “Born to Run” and “Born in the U.S.A.” Van Zandt also earned royalties from tours and album sales while in the E Street Band.
Solo Career and Production.
Van Zandt also recorded solo, releasing albums such as “Men Without Women” and “Voice of America.” His solo work never reached the commercial heights of the E Street Band records, but it gave him the freedom to explore political and social themes. His dedication to his artistry, even when pursuing niche projects, is a key component of his legacy.
Van Zandt has contributed to music beyond just performing. He is a music producer who has worked with several artists and founded the record label Wicked Cool Records, which promotes his music and that of other rock and soul artists. He also started Little Steven’s Underground Garage, a syndicated radio show that helped build on his rock music legacy and brought in additional income streams.
Acting and The Sopranos
Van Zandt’s entry into acting was another lucrative and unexpected avenue for success. Cast as Silvio Dante in The Sopranos, Van Zandt brought to life one of the show’s most beloved characters. His performance earned critical acclaim and introduced him to an entirely new audience, marking him both as a musician as well as an actor. His earnings from The Sopranos added significantly to his net worth, and he continued to act in shows like Lilyhammer, where he played the lead role, earning both salary and royalties.
Activism and Charitable Ventures
Van Zandt’s activism, mainly his opposition to apartheid in South Africa, gives his career depth. He initiated Artists United Against Apartheid in 1985 and released Sun City, an album featuring iconic musicians and raised awareness of racial injustice. Even if activism does not directly contribute to net worth, it has bolstered his public profile and has helped him build relationships across industries.
