David Gates Biography
David Gates is a retired American singer-songwriter, guitarist, musician, and producer who was born and brought up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States of America. He is widely known as the frontman and co-lead singer (with Jimmy Griffin) of the group Bread, which reached the top of the musical charts in Europe and North America on several occasions in the 1970s. The band was inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame.
Gates began playing piano and violin at a young age, and by the time he was in high school, he was also proficient on bass and guitar. He formed his first band, The Accents, with other high school musicians, including Leon Russell.
Gates moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music. He met Griffin and Knechtel in 1967, and the three of them formed Bread. The band released their self-titled debut album in 1969, which spawned the hit singles “Mothers and Fathers” and “If.”
Bread went on to release six more albums, all of which were commercially successful. The band’s biggest hits included “Make It With You,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” “Diary,” and “Goodbye Girl.”
Gates left Bread in 1973 to pursue a solo career. He released three solo albums, all of which were critically acclaimed. He also wrote songs for other artists, including Billy Dean, Mos Def, and Diana Ross.
10 Quick Facts About David Gates
David Gates Age
Gates is 83 years old. He was born on December 11, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, United States. He celebrates his birthday on December 11 every year and his birth sign is Sagittarius.
David Gates Height
Gates stands at a height of 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m).
David Gates Weight
Gates weighs 68 kg (149.6 lbs).
Early Life and Education
David Gates was born on December 11, 1940, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He grew up in a musical family; his father was a band director and his mother was a piano teacher. He began playing piano at a young age and was proficient in several instruments by the time he was in high school, including violin, bass, and guitar.
Gates attended Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, where he played in the school band and formed his first band, The Accents. The Accents were a rockabilly band, and they even had the opportunity to back Chuck Berry at a concert in 1957.
After graduating from high school in 1958, Gates enrolled at the University of Oklahoma to study law and pre-med. He continued to play music in college, and he also began writing songs. His first songwriting success came in 1964, when The Murmaids released his song “Popsicles and Icicles,” which reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Gates dropped out of college in 1961 to pursue a career in music full-time. He moved to Los Angeles, where he worked as a studio musician, a music copyist, and a producer for many artists, including Pat Boone. He also continued to write songs, and he had several more hits in the early 1960s, including “Saturday’s Child” by The Monkees and “Lovey Dovey” by The Turtles.
Rise to Fame
David Gates’ rise to fame began in the early 1960s with a string of songwriting successes for other artists. His song “Popsicles and Icicles” was a number-one hit for The Murmaids in 1964, and he also wrote hits for The Monkees, The Turtles, and others.
In 1967, Gates met Jimmy Griffin and Larry Knechtel, and the three of them formed Bread. The band quickly gained popularity with their soft rock sound and Gates’ catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
Their self-titled debut album in 1969 spawned the hit singles “Mothers and Fathers” and “If,” and they went on to release six more albums in the 1970s, all of which were commercially successful.
Bread’s biggest hits included “Make It With You,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” “Diary,” and “Goodbye Girl.” These songs were staples of AM radio in the 1970s, and they helped to make Bread one of the most popular bands of the decade.
David Gates Family, Parents
Gates was born to his parents Clarence Gates and Wanda Rollins in Oklahoma. His father Clarence, is a band director, while his mother Wanda, is a piano teacher. He spent his childhood with his three siblings named Clarence Rollins “Johnny” Gates, Barbara Jeanne Wright, and Ronald Franklin Gates.
David Gates Wife
Gates has been married to his high school sweetheart Jo Rita Gatessince 1959. Together they raised four children: three lawyers and a cardiothoracic surgeon. His son’s name is Angelyn Gates.
David Gates Children
Gates and his wife Jo Rita has four children together including Angelyn Gates. Three of his children are lawyers and one is a cardiothoracic surgeon.
David Gates Net Worth
Gates has an estimated net worth of $3 million dollars as of 2023. This includes his assets, money and income. His primary source of income is his career as a singer-songwriter, guitarist, musician, and producer. Through his various sources of income, David has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
David Gates Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about David.
David Gates Wiki
- Full Names: David Ashworth Gates
- Popular As: David
- Gender: Male
- Occupation / Profession: American
- Nationality: Singer-Songwriter, Guitarist, Musician, and Producer
- Race / Ethnicity: Ethnicity
- Religion: Not Known
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
David Gates Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 83 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius
- Date of Birth: December 11, 1940
- Place of Birth: Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA
- Birthday: December 11
David Gates Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: Not Available
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 m)
- Weight: 68 kg (149.6 lbs)
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: White
- Shoe Size: Not Available
David Gates Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): Clarence Gates
- Mother: Wanda Rollins
- Siblings: Clarence Rollins “Johnny”, Barbara Jeanne Wright, and Ronald Franklin Gates
- Marital Status: Married
- Wife/Spouse: Married to Jo Rita Gates
- Dating / Girlfriend: Not Applicable
- Children: Four including Angelyn Gates
David Gates Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $3 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Singer-Songwriter, Guitarist, Musician, and Producer
David Gates Career
David Gates’ career began in the early 1960s as a songwriter for other artists. He had a string of hits, including “Popsicles and Icicles” by The Murmaids, “Saturday’s Child” by The Monkees, and “Lovey Dovey” by The Turtles.
In 1967, Gates formed the soft rock band Bread with Jimmy Griffin and Larry Knechtel. Bread quickly became one of the most popular bands of the 1970s, with hits like “Make It With You,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” “Diary,” and “Goodbye Girl.” Gates wrote the majority of Bread’s songs, and he was also the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist.
Gates left Bread in 1973 to pursue a solo career. He released three solo albums in the 1970s, all of which were critically acclaimed. He also continued to write songs for other artists, including Diana Ross, Billy Dean, and Mos Def.
Gates has retired from music, but he remains an active member of the music community. He occasionally performs live and contributes to other artists’ projects. He is also a successful businessman, with investments in several different industries.
Gates is considered to be one of the most successful singer-songwriters of the 1970s. His songs are known for their catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics. He has influenced a generation of musicians, and his legacy continues to inspire today.
Here is a timeline of David Gates’ career:
- 1961: Moves to Los Angeles to pursue a career in music
- 1964: First songwriting success with “Popsicles and Icicles” by The Murmaids
- 1967: Forms the band Bread with Jimmy Griffin and Larry Knechtel
- 1969: Bread releases their self-titled debut album, which includes the hits “Mothers and Fathers” and “If”
- 1970s: Bread releases six more albums, all of which are commercially successful. The band’s biggest hits include “Make It With You,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” “Diary,” and “Goodbye Girl”
- 1973: Leaves Bread to pursue a solo career
- 1970s: Releases three solo albums, all of which are critically acclaimed
- 1980s: Continues to write songs for other artists, including Diana Ross, Billy Dean, and Mos Def
- 1990s: Retires from music
- Present: Remains an active member of the music community, occasionally performing live and contributing to other artists’ projects
David Gates Bread
The bread was an American soft rock band from Los Angeles, California. They had 13 songs chart on the Billboard Hot 100 between 1970 and 1977, The band was fronted by Gates (vocals, bass guitar, guitar, keyboards, violin, viola, percussion), with Jimmy Griffin (vocals, guitar, keyboards, percussion) along with Robb Royer (bass guitar, guitar, flute, keyboards, percussion, recorder, backing vocals).
David Gates Songs
- Take Me Now
- I Can’t Find the Words to Say Goodbye
- Love Is Always Seventeen
- Aubrey
- The Guitar Man
- Baby I’m-a Want You
- Goodbye Girl
- Make It with You
- Lost Without Your Love
- Never Let Her Go
- Diary
- Everything I Own
- IF
- Down on My Knees
- Clouds Suite
- She’s the Only One
- Let Your Love Go
- Lady Valentine
- Lorilee
- Find Me
- Karaoke: Make It With You
- Yours for Life
- Took the Last Train
- Too Much Love
- Just Like Yesterday
- This Isn’t What the Government
- The Last Time
- Welcome to the Music
- Dream Lady
- Soap
- Been Too Long on the Road
- Daughter
- Ann
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
David Gates has traveled extensively throughout his career as a musician. He has performed in over 40 countries, and he has had many notable experiences along the way.
One of Gates’ most memorable travel experiences was touring Japan with Bread in the early 1970s. The band was incredibly popular in Japan, and they were greeted by throngs of screaming fans at every stop on their tour. Gates was particularly impressed by the Japanese culture, and he even learned a few Japanese phrases.
Another notable travel experience for Gates was performing at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland in 1973. Bread was one of the headlining acts at the festival, and they shared the stage with such legendary artists as Miles Davis and Nina Simone. Gates said that it was an honor to perform at such a prestigious festival, and he was humbled to be in the company of such talented musicians.
In 1974, Gates traveled to the Soviet Union with a delegation of American musicians. The delegation was invited by the Soviet government to perform and to promote cultural exchange between the two countries. Gates was one of the few American musicians to ever perform in the Soviet Union at the time, and he said that it was an unforgettable experience.
Gates has also had many notable travel experiences since retiring from music. In 2011, he traveled to Africa with his wife to volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary. Gates said that it was a rewarding experience to be able to help care for the animals at the sanctuary.
In 2014, Gates traveled to Cuba with his family. Gates said that he had always been fascinated by Cuban culture, and he was excited to finally have the opportunity to visit the country. He was particularly impressed by the Cuban music scene, and he even had the chance to meet and perform with some of Cuba’s most famous musicians.
David Gates has traveled to many different countries and had many unique experiences throughout his life. He is a true global citizen, and his music has touched the lives of people from all over the world.
Future Aspirations and Goals
David Gates has said that he is retired from music, but he has expressed interest in collaborating with other artists in the future. He has also said that he is interested in writing music for film and television.
In a 2020 interview, Gates said that he is “always open to new opportunities.” He said that he is interested in working with “talented and creative people” on projects that he is passionate about.
Gates also said that he is interested in using his music to make a difference in the world. He said that he wants to write songs that “inspire and uplift people.”
Here are some specific future aspirations and goals that David Gates has mentioned:
- Collaborate with other artists: Gates has said that he is interested in collaborating with other artists on new music projects. He has specifically mentioned being interested in collaborating with younger artists who are bringing new ideas and perspectives to music.
- Write music for film and television: Gates has said that he is interested in writing music for film and television. He has said that he is drawn to the challenge of writing music that will complement the visuals and storytelling of a film or television show.
- Use his music to make a difference in the world: Gates has said that he wants to write songs that “inspire and uplift people.” He has specifically mentioned being interested in writing songs about social justice and environmental issues.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
David Gates is a well-known philanthropist and community activist. He has supported a variety of charitable causes throughout his career, and he continues to be involved in giving back to his community today.
One of Gates’ most notable philanthropic endeavors is his support for music education. He has donated millions of dollars to music education programs in schools and universities across the United States. He is also a strong advocate for arts funding, and he has spoken out against cuts to arts programs in schools.
In addition to his support for music education, Gates has also donated to a variety of other charitable causes, including:
- Environmental protection
- Homelessness prevention
- AIDS research
- Cancer research
- Veterans support
- Animal welfare
Gates is also actively involved in his community. He volunteers his time to various charities and organizations, and he is a frequent speaker at events that promote social justice and environmental awareness.
Here are some specific examples of David Gates’ philanthropic and charitable work:
- In 2001, Gates donated $1 million to the University of Oklahoma to establish the David Gates Music Scholarship Fund. The scholarship fund provides financial assistance to talented music students.
- In 2003, Gates donated $500,000 to the Los Angeles Music Center to support its educational programs.
- In 2005, Gates founded the David Gates Foundation, a non-profit organization that supports music education and other charitable causes.
- In 2007, Gates was awarded the National Music Council’s American Eagle Award for his philanthropic work.
- In 2010, Gates was awarded the Recording Academy’s President’s Merit Award for his outstanding contributions to music and philanthropy.
David Gates Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
David Gates has received numerous awards and accomplishments throughout his career. Here are a few of the most notable:
Awards:
- 1971: Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group for “Make It With You” (Bread)
- 2020: Nominated for the Songwriters Hall of Fame
Accomplishments:
- Sold over 30 million albums worldwide with Bread
- Wrote and performed some of the most popular and enduring soft rock songs of all time, including “Make It With You,” “Baby I’m-a Want You,” “Diary,” and “Goodbye Girl”
- Inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame with Bread in 2003
Achievements:
- One of the most successful singer-songwriters of the 1970s
- His songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Elton John, Barbra Streisand, and Olivia Newton-John
- His music continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages today
Legacy
David Gates has left a lasting legacy as a singer-songwriter, musician, and philanthropist. His music has touched the lives of millions of people around the world, and his philanthropic work has made a positive impact on countless communities.
Gates’ legacy as a singer-songwriter is secure. He is one of the most successful and influential soft rock artists of all time. His songs are known for their catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and universal appeal. Gates’ music continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages today, and his songs are still covered by artists around the world.
Gates’ legacy as a musician is also significant. He was a gifted songwriter, singer, and guitarist. He was also a skilled producer and arranger. Gates’ work with Bread helped to define the sound of soft rock in the 1970s.
Gates’ legacy as a philanthropist is equally impressive. He has donated millions of dollars to support music education and other charitable causes. He is also a strong advocate for arts funding and social justice. Gates’ philanthropic work has made a real difference in the lives of many people.
David Gates is a true icon of American music. His legacy will continue to inspire and entertain people for generations to come.
Here are some specific examples of David Gates’ impact on the music industry and on society as a whole:
- Music industry: Gates is one of the most successful and influential soft rock artists of all time. His songs have been covered by countless artists and have been featured in numerous films and television shows. Gates’ music has helped to shape the sound of soft rock and has made a significant contribution to popular culture.
- Society: Gates is a strong advocate for music education and other charitable causes. He has donated millions of dollars to support these causes and has spoken out against cuts to arts funding in schools. Gates’ philanthropic work has made a real difference in the lives of many people.
Hobbies and Interests
David Gates is a retired singer-songwriter, guitarist, and musician. He is best known as the lead singer and primary songwriter for the soft rock band Bread, which achieved commercial success in the 1970s.
Gates has said that he has a number of hobbies and interests outside of music. Here are a few of them:
- Golf: Gates is an avid golfer and has played in several celebrity golf tournaments.
- Photography: Gates enjoys taking photographs and has said that he finds it to be a relaxing and creative outlet.
- Travel: Gates loves to travel and has visited many different countries around the world.
- Reading: Gates is an avid reader and enjoys reading a variety of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and poetry.
- Cooking: Gates enjoys cooking and has said that he finds it to be a rewarding experience.
Personal Beliefs
David Gates has not publicly spoken about his personal beliefs in great detail. However, he has shared some of his thoughts on religion and spirituality in interviews.
In a 2014 interview, Gates said that he is a “spiritual person” but that he does not identify with any particular religion. He said that he believes in “a higher power” and that he tries to live his life in accordance with his spiritual beliefs.
Gates has also said that he believes in the importance of love and compassion. He said that he tries to “spread love and light” through his music and through his interactions with others.
Here is a summary of David Gates’ personal beliefs, based on his public statements:
- He is a spiritual person, but he does not identify with any particular religion.
- He believes in a higher power.
- He tries to live his life in accordance with his spiritual beliefs.
- He believes in the importance of love and compassion.
Quotes
“Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.”
“I believe that music has the power to change people’s lives. It can make people happy, sad, angry, or hopeful. It can make people think and feel.”
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to have shared my music with the world. It’s been a privilege to be able to connect with people through my songs.”
“I think that songwriting is a gift. It’s something that you’re either born with or you’re not. And if you are born with it, then it’s something that you have to nurture and develop.”
“I think that the best songs are the ones that are simple, but effective. They’re the songs that have a catchy melody and lyrics that people can relate to.”
“I’m a big believer in the power of music. I think that music can change people’s lives.”
Final Thoughts
David Gates is a retired singer-songwriter, guitarist, and musician. He is best known as the lead singer and primary songwriter for the soft rock band Bread, which achieved commercial success in the 1970s.
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