Glenn Wheatley is an influential Australian musician, famous for his performances as a musician as well as his behind-the-scenes work as a manager and businessman.
His journey to fame began as the bassist for The Masters Apprentices, a band that became famous in the 1960s with hits like Turn Up Your Radio and Because I Love You.
However, Wheatley became even more prominent after moving into management. One of his greatest successes was managing John Farnham’s career, especially during the release of the 1986 album Whispering Jack.
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- Full name: Glenn Dawson Wheatley
- Date of birth: January 23, 1948
- Age as of 2024: 76 years old (died in 2022)
- Gender: Male
- Place of birth: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Nationality: Australian
- Occupation: Musician, Manager, Businessman
- Height: Not applicable
- Parents: Not applicable
- Siblings: Not applicable
- Spouse: Gaynor Martin
- Children: Tim Wheatley, Kara Wheatley, Samantha Wheatley
- Relationship status: Married (until his death)
- Religion: Not applicable
- Ethnicity: Not applicable
- Net worth: 15 million USD
Early life and education
Glenn Wheatley was born in Brisbane, Queensland, on 23 January 1948. Little is known about his early life, including his parents or siblings.
However, his early love for music led him to join The Masters Apprentices, where he played bass guitar and gained recognition.
Growing up in Australia’s vibrant 1960s music scene helped shape his path towards a successful career in performing and artist management.
Information about his formal education is not yet available as his music career took priority early on.
Personal life
Glenn Wheatley has been married to Gaynor Martin for nearly four decades. Together, they have three children: Tim Wheatley, a musician, and daughters Kara and Samantha.
Wheatley was known to be deeply committed to his family, and they were always by his side during the most challenging times of his life, including legal troubles and his subsequent imprisonment in in 2007. Wheatley’s marriage to Gaynor remained strong until his death in 2022.
Career
Wheatley’s career began in the 1960s with The Masters Apprentices. However, his most important achievement came after he moved into management.
In 1975, he founded the Wheatley Organization and began managing the Little River Band, helping them achieve international success. His most famous work is that of John Farnham, whom he managed from 1982 onwards.
Wheatley mortgaged his house to fund Farnham’s 1986 comeback album, Whispering Jack, which became one of the best-selling albums in Australian history.
He also worked with Delta Goodrem early in her career, helping launch her debut album, Innocent Eyes.
prize
- ARIA Hall of Fame (inductees as part of The Masters Apprentices)
Net worth
Glenn Wheatley’s net worth is estimated at $15 million. Most of his wealth comes from his management work, guiding artists such as John Farnham and Delta Goodrem to great commercial success.
His business ventures, including investments in nightclubs, also contributed to his wealth, although some investments, such as a failed $12 million project in Melbourne, were causing financial difficulties later in life.
Death
Glenn Wheatley passed away on February 1, 2022, at the age of 74, due to complications related to COVID-19. His family surrounded him at the time of his death.
Argumentative
In 2007, Glenn was convicted of tax evasion, leading to a 15-month prison sentence. The charges stem from an investigation by the Australian Taxation Office into Swiss trust accounts linked to Wheatley.
His financial troubles became further complicated when a $12 million investment failed in a nightclub, causing him to almost lose his home.
Despite these setbacks, Wheatley rebuilt his career and maintained his reputation in the music industry.
His time in prison was a humbling experience but he remained resilient, returning to work with John Farnham after his release.
Social Media
- Instagram: Not applicable
- Twitter: Not applicable
Record
- Turn on your radio
- Because I love
- That’s because I love you
- Living a child’s dream
Book
