Rufus Wainwright

Date of Birth: July 22, 1973

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Biography

Rufus Wainwright is an American-Canadian singer, songwriter, and composer known for his distinctive voice and eclectic musical style. Born into a musical family, Rufus is the son of folk musicians Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle. He began playing the piano at the age of six and made his first public performance at the age of 13. His self-titled debut album was released in 1998 and received critical acclaim, marking the beginning of a successful and diverse career that spans various genres, including pop, opera, and classical music. Over the years, Rufus has released several albums, with notable works such as “Poses” (2001), “Want One” (2003), and his opera “Prima Donna,” which premiered in 2009. His music often features lush orchestrations and is heavily influenced by both classical and contemporary music. In addition to his solo career, Rufus has contributed to various film soundtracks and collaborated with artists across different genres. Rufus is openly gay and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights throughout his career. He married German arts administrator Jörn Weisbrodt in 2012, and the couple has a daughter, Viva Katherine Wainwright Cohen, born in 2011 through a surrogate.

5 Interesting Facts about Rufus Wainwright

1. Rufus Wainwright’s song “Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk” from the album “Poses” is considered one of his signature songs.

2. He composed an opera titled “Prima Donna,” which premiered at the Manchester International Festival in 2009.

3. Rufus is fluent in both English and French, often incorporating French lyrics into his music.

4. He has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Royal Opera House, among other prestigious venues.

5. Rufus is the brother of singer Martha Wainwright and the half-brother of Lucy Wainwright Roche.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Rufus Wainwright

1. “I find it very easy to write when I’m in love, and I find it very easy to write when I’m heartbroken. It’s the in-between days that are hard.”

2. “My mother’s death was a wake-up call. I had to really get serious about my life.”

3. “I’m a very positive person, but I don’t focus on the positive because the negative is always there.”

4. “Music is the divine way to tell beautiful, poetic things to the heart.”

5. “You have to be able to step away from your work and be human.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Rufus Wainwright’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Rufus Wainwright has one daughter, Viva Katherine Wainwright Cohen, born on February 2, 2011. She was conceived via a surrogate mother, Lorca Cohen, daughter of Leonard Cohen.