Back in Time Today
Explore how these artists, initially known for their singular hits, reinvented themselves in fascinating ways. From tech investments to creative industries, discover the intriguing paths they took after the limelight faded.
1. MC Hammer
MC Hammer, once known for “U Can’t Touch This,” faced financial difficulties but emerged anew. Embracing technology, he invested in tech startups, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
His spiritual journey led him to become an ordained minister, preaching and spreading positivity. This dual career showcases his resilience and adaptability, turning his past challenges into opportunities for growth.
Hammer’s story demonstrates how embracing change and diverse interests can lead to unexpected yet fulfilling success. His persistence and ability to pivot have made him a respected figure in both tech and spiritual communities.
2. Sir Mix-a-Lot
Sir Mix-a-Lot, famous for the 90s anthem “Baby Got Back,” cleverly invested his royalties into the tech world. Early investments in companies like Amazon paid off, demonstrating his forward-thinking mindset.
This strategic shift allowed him to cultivate wealth beyond music, establishing a prominent role in the tech investment community. His savvy approach highlights the importance of diversifying income streams and staying ahead of trends.
Sir Mix-a-Lot’s foray into technology underscores how artists can leverage their earnings wisely to secure long-term financial success and influence within new, dynamic sectors.
3. Vanilla Ice
Vanilla Ice, best known for his hit “Ice Ice Baby,” transitioned into a lucrative real estate career. Splitting his time between purchasing, renovating, and selling homes, he became a successful investor.
His charisma and knack for renovation caught the eye of television producers, leading to his own home renovation show. This new career not only revived his public persona but also brought him financial stability.
Vanilla Ice’s journey from a rapper to a real estate mogul serves as an inspiration to reinvent oneself and leverage past fame into a robust and rewarding career.
4. Gerardo
Gerardo Mejía, who brought us “Rico Suave,” transitioned to a significant behind-the-scenes role in the music industry. As an executive at Interscope Records, he helped shape the careers of new artists, including Enrique Iglesias.
This role capitalized on his industry knowledge and keen ear for talent, allowing him to thrive in music beyond his initial hit. Gerardo’s career shift is a testament to adaptability and finding new purposes within one’s passion.
His influence continues through the successes of the artists he has guided, proving that a single hit can open doors to lasting impact in the industry.
5. Toni Basil
Toni Basil, who charmed audiences with “Mickey,” channeled her creativity into a successful career as a choreographer. Working with icons like David Bowie and Tina Turner, she earned acclaim in the dance community.
Her keen sense of rhythm and performance translated into dynamic choreography, making her a sought-after talent behind the scenes. Toni’s transition from pop star to dance visionary highlights the limitless potential within the arts.
Her journey underscores the importance of cultivating one’s passions and skills, showing how diverse talents can lead to fulfilling and influential careers beyond initial fame.
6. David Lee Murphy
David Lee Murphy, known for “Dust on the Bottle,” reinvented himself as a sought-after country songwriter. His knack for storytelling and melody led him to pen hits for stars like Kenny Chesney and Jason Aldean.
This behind-the-scenes role allowed him to thrive creatively and commercially, proving that talent can find expression in various forms. David’s successful shift highlights the value of embracing one’s strengths and finding new avenues to contribute to an industry.
His story exemplifies how artists can maintain relevance and impact by channeling their skills into different aspects of their field.
7. CeeLo Green
Before “Forget You,” CeeLo Green had a brief time with Goodie Mob. Post-hit, he thrived as a personality on “The Voice” and ventured into voice acting.
CeeLo’s charismatic presence and distinctive voice made him a favorite on TV and a versatile talent in voice roles. His ability to engage audiences across platforms showcases the power of personality and diverse skills.
CeeLo’s journey emphasizes the importance of leveraging unique traits and talents, demonstrating how artists can expand their influence and careers by embracing diverse roles and opportunities in the entertainment industry.
8. Len
Len, the Canadian band known for “Steal My Sunshine,” saw members Marc and Sharon Costanzo transition into filmmakers. Embracing a passion for storytelling, they shifted from music to film production.
This transition allowed them to explore new creative territories and bring narratives to life. Their work in film highlights the potential for artistic talents to evolve and adapt to new mediums.
Len’s journey from chart-toppers to filmmakers demonstrates the power of following one’s creative instincts and finding rewarding careers in diverse artistic fields that resonate beyond their musical beginnings.
9. Right Said Fred
Right Said Fred, creators of “I’m Too Sexy,” ventured into fashion, launching their clothing line. Their flair for boldness and style translated seamlessly into fashion design, captivating fans and fashionistas alike.
This new venture allowed them to express their creativity beyond music, establishing a brand synonymous with charisma and style. Right Said Fred’s shift to fashion underscores the potential to harness one’s unique style and personality into a successful business.
Their journey showcases how creativity can translate across industries, creating new opportunities and avenues for expression and success.
10. Susan Boyle
Susan Boyle, who stunned the world with “I Dreamed a Dream,” transitioned into an inspirational speaker and author. Sharing her story of perseverance and dreams, she inspired countless individuals.
Her memoir became a bestseller, resonating with readers worldwide. Susan’s journey from a singing sensation to a motivational figure highlights the power of personal story and resilience.
Her ability to connect with audiences through speaking and writing underscores the impact of authenticity and vulnerability. Susan Boyle’s career evolution illustrates the potential to inspire and uplift others by sharing one’s unique experiences and insights.
11. Haddaway
Haddaway, famous for “What Is Love,” pursued a career in business and economics after his musical success. His venture into academia allowed him to explore interests beyond entertainment, impacting students and colleagues alike.
This shift from music to business highlights the versatility and adaptability of creative individuals. Haddaway’s career change underscores the importance of education and continuous learning, showcasing how artists can leverage their skills and experiences in new fields.
His journey illustrates the potential for reinvention and impact, serving as an example of how fame can lead to diverse and fulfilling career paths.
12. Chumbawamba
Chumbawamba, known for “Tubthumping,” transitioned into activism and social work after their musical success. Embracing a passion for social justice, they engaged in campaigns and initiatives to drive change.
This shift highlights the potential for artists to leverage their platforms for societal impact. Their journey from band to activists underscores the importance of commitment to causes and community engagement.
Chumbawamba’s transformation exemplifies how fame and influence can be harnessed to advocate for social causes, inspiring others to contribute to meaningful change and fostering a sense of purpose beyond the entertainment industry.
13. Dexys Midnight Runners
Dexys Midnight Runners, celebrated for “Come On Eileen,” saw some members transition into music education. Sharing their expertise, they became educators and lecturers, inspiring new generations of musicians.
This shift from stage to classroom highlights the value of teaching and nurturing talent. Their journey underscores the potential for artists to contribute to their field through education, fostering creativity and skill development.
Dexys Midnight Runners’ career evolution illustrates the rewarding nature of guiding others and passing on knowledge, proving that artists can continue to impact the industry in meaningful ways beyond performance.
14. Lou Bega
Lou Bega, whose hit “Mambo No. 5” topped charts, turned his success into entrepreneurial ventures across Europe. Investing in various businesses, he diversified his income and secured financial stability.
His acumen for business allowed him to thrive beyond the music scene, showcasing the potential for artists to transition into the business world. Lou’s journey illustrates the importance of financial literacy and entrepreneurship, empowering artists to leverage their fame into lasting success.
His ability to adapt and invest strategically demonstrates how creative individuals can build robust careers in diverse fields and ensure long-term prosperity.
15. Baha Men
Baha Men, celebrated for “Who Let the Dogs Out,” transitioned to music production, shaping the soundscapes of new artists. Their expertise in crafting catchy tunes allowed them to thrive behind the scenes, influencing the music industry from a different angle.
This shift underscores the potential for artists to leverage their skills in production, contributing to the success of others.
Baha Men’s career evolution highlights the value of adaptability and creativity, showcasing how musicians can continue to impact their field through mentorship and production, fostering new talent while sustaining their influence in the industry.
16. Vicki Lawrence
Vicki Lawrence, known for “The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia,” found enduring success in acting and hosting. Her role on “Mama’s Family” showcased her comedic talent and endeared her to audiences.
Transitioning to TV hosting, she captivated viewers with her charisma and engaging presence. Vicki’s journey from singer to actress and host illustrates the power of versatility and talent.
Her ability to connect with audiences across different mediums demonstrates how artists can evolve their careers, leveraging their skills to entertain and engage, securing a lasting place in the entertainment landscape.
17. The Calling
The Calling, famous for “Wherever You Will Go,” transitioned to composing for film and TV, bringing their emotive sound to new audiences. This shift allowed them to explore creativity in a different context, expanding their impact beyond radio hits.
Their work in scoring highlights the adaptability and breadth of their musical talents, enriching visual media with their unique sound.
The Calling’s journey from band to composers underscores the potential for musical artists to diversify and thrive in varied creative fields, proving that passion and skill can translate into success across multiple artistic domains.
18. Scatman John
Scatman John, known for “Scatman (Ski-Ba-Bop-Ba-Dop-Bop),” used his platform to advocate for speech therapy, inspiring those with speech impediments. His personal struggles with stuttering motivated him to support others facing similar challenges.
By raising awareness, he contributed to destigmatizing speech disorders and encouraging individuals to seek help. Scatman John’s journey highlights the power of using fame for advocacy and positive impact.
His legacy in the speech therapy community demonstrates how artists can leverage their influence to inspire change and support causes that resonate personally and socially, leaving a lasting impact beyond entertainment.
19. Los Del Rio
Los Del Rio, famous for the “Macarena,” smartly invested their earnings into real estate and other businesses in Spain. This strategic financial move allowed them to build wealth beyond their musical success, ensuring long-term stability and prosperity.
Their ability to capitalize on their hit underscores the importance of financial planning and investment. Los Del Rio’s journey illustrates how artists can turn short-lived fame into enduring success through smart business decisions.
Their story serves as a reminder of the power of strategic financial management and the opportunities it can provide beyond the entertainment industry.
20. Crazy Town
Crazy Town, known for “Butterfly,” shifted their focus to tattoo artistry, fashion design, and business ventures. Embracing creativity, they found new ways to express themselves through art and entrepreneurship.
This transition allowed them to build a brand that resonated with fans and clients, showcasing their artistic talents beyond music. Crazy Town’s journey highlights the potential for artists to reinvent themselves and explore diverse creative avenues.
Their success in tattoo artistry and design demonstrates how passion and innovation can lead to fulfilling careers, offering inspiration to others seeking to pivot from traditional paths.
21. Snow
Snow, renowned for “Informer,” transitioned into a behind-the-scenes role as a music executive. His experience in the industry allowed him to nurture and develop new artists, contributing to their successes.
This shift from performer to executive highlights the value of industry knowledge and mentorship. Snow’s journey underscores how artists can continue to influence and shape the music world through leadership roles.
His ability to adapt and guide emerging talent illustrates the potential for long-term impact in the industry, demonstrating how expertise and experience can be leveraged to support the next generation of musicians.
22. Eiffel 65
Eiffel 65, famous for “Blue (Da Ba Dee),” transitioned into creating soundtracks and sound effects for video games. Their expertise in crafting memorable tunes translated seamlessly into this new medium, expanding their influence in the entertainment industry.
This shift highlights the adaptability and creativity of artists, allowing them to explore new horizons. Eiffel 65’s journey from pop music to gaming illustrates the potential for artists to diversify and thrive in different creative fields.
Their work in video game sound design demonstrates how music can enhance and elevate new forms of entertainment, broadening their impact.