10 Metal Musicians Who Surprisingly Are Also Successful Entrepreneurs

Heavy metal artists are known to live a life of excess and debauchery. But as the industry has evolved, so too have the musicians who once epitomized this lifestyle. With the decline in record sales due to illegal downloading and minimal streaming royalties, many metal musicians have turned to entrepreneurship to sustain their fortunes. Here are ten metal musicians who have successfully transitioned from headbanging on stage to thriving in the business world.

1. Joey Kramer – Aerosmith Drummer

Joey Kramer, the drummer for Boston’s hard rock legends Aerosmith, has seen his fair share of wild times. Known for his relentless touring schedule and rock ‘n roll lifestyle, Kramer has channeled his experiences into a new venture: Rockin’ & Roastin’ Coffee. The coffee line includes various roasts such as Ethiopia whole bean, Guatemala whole bean, and Sumatra whole bean, ensuring there’s something for every coffee lover.

Kramer’s journey into the coffee business began as a way to share his newfound appreciation for quality brews with his fans. On the Rockin’ & Roastin’ website, Kramer states, “For the past 40-plus years, I have hit the circuit hard and have lived through some unbelievable experiences—both high and low—and have come out on the other side.” His entrepreneurial spirit has allowed him to create a product that not only satisfies his own tastes but also resonates with his audience, proving that even rock stars can find success in the most unexpected places.

2. Paul Stanley – KISS Guitarist

Paul Stanley is one of the co-owners of the Los Angeles Kiss arena football team, a venture that combines his love for rock and roll with his passion for sports.

In addition to his involvement with the Los Angeles Kiss, Stanley is also a co-founder of the Rock & Brews restaurant chain. Established in 2012, Rock & Brews offers a rock-themed dining experience that features American comfort food and craft beers. Stanley and Simmons serve as the establishment’s “Rock & Roll Ambassadors,” bringing their larger-than-life personas to the restaurant’s branding and marketing efforts.

3. Sammy Hagar – Van Halen Lead Singer

When David Lee Roth left Van Halen after their multiplatinum “1984” album, Sammy Hagar stepped in to fill the void. During his decade-long tenure with the band, Hagar helped produce numerous hit albums. However, his entrepreneurial spirit was already in full swing by the time he parted ways with Van Halen in 1996. One of Hagar’s most successful ventures is his Cabo Wabo brand tequila, which embodies his philosophy of “living free, working hard, and playing harder.” Hagar’s business acumen paid off handsomely when he sold an 80 percent interest in Cabo Wabo Tequila to Gruppo Campari for $80 million in 2007. 

4. Bruce Dickinson – Iron Maiden Lead Singer

Bruce Dickinson, the lead singer of the British heavy metal band Iron Maiden, is known for his powerful vocals and energetic stage presence. However, Dickinson’s talents extend far beyond music. He is also a trained commercial airline pilot and a successful entrepreneur. One of his notable business ventures is Trooper beer, which he created in collaboration with Robinson’s Brewery.

Dickinson’s passion for traditional English ale led him to develop Trooper beer, named after one of Iron Maiden’s classic songs. Despite his extensive experience performing in front of massive crowds, Dickinson admitted to feeling nervous about this partnership. “I’m a lifelong fan of traditional English ale; I thought I’d died and gone to heaven when we were asked to create our own beer,” he said. 

5. Alex Lifeson – Rush Guitarist

As the guitarist for the Canadian power trio Rush, Alex Lifeson has spent over 40 years captivating audiences with his six-string prowess. But Lifeson’s talents aren’t limited to music. In 1994, he co-founded The Orbit Room, a Toronto nightclub that transports us back to the mid-’60s era of live entertainment. The club’s official website describes it as a place with its own sound, vibe, and faithful followers, much like the iconic venues of yesteryear. The Orbit Room has become a staple in Toronto’s nightlife scene, offering live music and a unique atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. 

6. Michael Anthony – Van Halen Bass Player

Michael Anthony, the former bass player for Van Halen, was often seen as the calm center of the band, providing a steady foundation amidst the guitar pyrotechnics of Eddie Van Halen and the high-flying antics of David Lee Roth. After leaving the band a decade ago, Anthony channeled his energy into a new venture: Mad Anthony’s Hot Sauce. His website, Mad Anthony Café, offers a variety of sauces, including barbecue, hot mustard, and a signature.

7. Gene Simmons – KISS Bassist

Gene Simmons, the iconic bassist and co-founder of KISS, is as well-known for his business acumen as he is for his on-stage persona. With a net worth estimated at $400 million, Simmons has built an empire that extends far beyond music. One of his most successful ventures is Simmons Records, a record label that he founded to discover and promote new talent. In addition to his record label, Simmons has also ventured into the world of reality television with his show “Gene Simmons Family Jewels,” which aired for seven seasons. 

8. Dave Mustaine – Megadeth Frontman

Dave Mustaine, the frontman and founder of the thrash metal band Megadeth, is the owner of House of Mustaine, a vineyard and winery located in Fallbrook, California. The winery produces a range of wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Rosé, all crafted with the same precision and intensity that Mustaine brings to his music.

Mustaine’s passion for winemaking began as a hobby but quickly grew into a full-fledged business. He is involved in every aspect of the winemaking process, from selecting the grapes to designing the labels. He also is a horse breeder, talk about passion!

9. Tom Araya – Slayer Bassist and Vocalist

Tom Araya, the bassist and vocalist for the legendary thrash metal band Slayer, has spent decades delivering some of the most intense and aggressive music ever recorded. Offstage, however, Araya has pursued a more tranquil passion: cattle ranching. Araya owns and operates a ranch in Texas, where he raises cattle and enjoys the peace and quiet of rural life. 

10. Zakk Wylde – Black Label Society Frontman

Zakk Wylde, the frontman for Black Label Society and former guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne, is known for his blistering guitar solos and larger-than-life stage presence. In addition to his musical achievements, Wylde has also made a name for himself in the business world with his company, Wylde Audio. Founded in 2015, Wylde Audio produces a range of high-quality guitars, amplifiers, and accessories designed to meet the needs of professional musicians and aspiring rock stars. Wylde’s deep understanding of what musicians need and his commitment to quality have made Wylde Audio a respected name in the industry.