David Allan Coe is a legendary figure in outlaw country music, known for his rebellious image and hit songs like You Never Even Called Me by My Name and The Ride.
Over the years, he has earned from songwriting royalties, live performances, and record sales. However, financial struggles, including IRS debts and bankruptcy, have significantly impacted his wealth.
Today, many fans wonder: What is David Allan Coe net worth in 2025? More importantly, how does he make money after losing his early song rights?
This article explores his financial journey, income sources, and the challenges that shaped his career.
David Allan Coe Quick Facts
| FACT | DETAIL |
|---|---|
| Real Name | David Allan Coe |
| Popular Name | David Allan Coe |
| Birth Date | September 6, 1939 |
| Age | 85 years old (as of 02/22/2025) |
| Birthplace | Akron, Ohio, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | N/A |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Kimberly Hastings (m. 2010) |
| Children | Tyler, Tanya, Shyanne and Carson |
| Dating | N/A |
| Siblings | N/A |
| Parents | Donald Mahan Coe |
| Height | N/A |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million |
| Source of Wealth | Singer, songwriter, guitarist |
What is the Net Worth of David Allan Coe in 2025?
As of 2025, David Allan Coe’s net worth is estimated to be $1.5 million. Despite his success in outlaw country music, financial setbacks—including bankruptcy and IRS debts—have impacted his earnings.
His income mainly comes from live performances and newer music, as he lost ownership of his pre-1984 song catalog in a bankruptcy sale.
Compared to other outlaw country artists, Coe’s wealth is significantly lower. Artists like Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings also faced financial troubles, but they managed to recover better due to retained song rights and mainstream appeal.
Related People in the Industry:
- Willie Nelson
- Johnny Paycheck
- Waylon Jennings
- Tanya Tucker
- Kid Rock
- Dimebag Darrell
- Billy Sherrill
- Columbia Records
- Outlaw Country Musicians
- IRS
For more insights on wealthy musicians and entertainers, check out this list of the richest celebrities.
David Allan Coe Wealth, Salary, and Financial Overview
How Much Does He Earn and Where Does His Money Come From?
David Allan Coe has built his career through multiple income streams:
- Touring Revenue: His primary income source today is performing live. Fans still attend his concerts, keeping his music alive.
- Songwriting Royalties: While he lost his early song rights, he still earns from newer releases.
- Merchandise Sales: Coe continues to sell branded merchandise at concerts and online.
- Collaborations: He has worked with artists like Kid Rock and Dimebag Darrell, which brought in additional revenue.
Did He Go Bankrupt? Understanding His Financial Struggles
Coe filed for bankruptcy in 2003, mainly due to IRS tax debts. He lost the rights to all his songs before 1984 in a bankruptcy sale for only $25,000.
- IRS Tax Issues: The IRS claimed he owed $100,000, leading to financial strain.
- Legal Troubles: He also faced child support debt of over $300,000 in 2007.
- Impact on Earnings: Losing song rights meant he no longer made money from hits like Take This Job and Shove It, despite still being credited.
How Does He Make Money Today?
Despite past setbacks, Coe still earns through:
- Live Performances: He continues to tour, earning from ticket sales.
- Music Sales: Newer songs generate revenue, although not as much as his classic hits.
- Fan Support: Dedicated fans help sustain his career through purchases and event attendance.
Why Doesn’t He Own His Early Songs Anymore?
One of the biggest financial blows to Coe was losing his pre-1984 music catalog. Due to bankruptcy, his rights were sold, meaning he no longer profits from past hits.
- Songs like Take This Job and Shove It and Would You Lay With Me now belong to new owners.
- While credited, he does not receive royalties.
- He has spoken out about the sale, expressing frustration over the lack of notice.
How Do His Finances Compare to Other Outlaw Country Artists?
Many outlaw country artists faced financial difficulties, including:
- Willie Nelson: Also battled the IRS but recovered with new albums and tours.
- Johnny Paycheck: Struggled with money due to legal issues.
- Waylon Jennings: Maintained wealth by retaining music rights.
What Role Did the IRS Play in His Financial Issues?
The IRS played a crucial role in Coe’s money troubles:
- Tax debts led to bankruptcy.
- Losing song rights drastically reduced his earnings.
- Unlike Willie Nelson, Coe could not negotiate a financial recovery deal.
Does He Still Perform, and How Much Does He Make From Touring?
Yes, David Allan Coe still performs live, which is his primary source of income.
- Touring keeps him financially stable.
- Exact earnings are unknown, but ticket sales remain a key revenue stream.
- Live shows allow him to engage directly with fans.
Conclusion
David Allan Coe’s financial journey is a mix of success and struggle. While he remains an influential outlaw country artist, bankruptcy and IRS issues have affected his wealth.
However, he continues to perform and earn from his newer music.
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