6 Things You Never Knew About Bob Seger
Rock icon Bob Seger, who turns 80 today, is known for his powerful, raspy voice and songs that often explore love and the blue-collar experience. With a career spanning six decades, Seger has sold over 75 million records globally, making him one of the bestselling artists of all time. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2012. Today, the musician is enjoying retirement in his home state of Michigan and largely stays out of the public eye, though he made a rare appearance at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville in 2023 to perform at Patty Loveless‘ induction ceremony.
Seger was born in 1945 and began his musical journey in 1960s Detroit. His first national hit, “Ramblin’ Gamblin’ Man,” came in 1969; in the early 1970s, he formed the Silver Bullet Band, achieving widespread success with the live album Live Bullet (1976) and the studio album Night Moves (1976). In 1987, Seger recorded “Shakedown” for the soundtrack to Beverly Hills Cop II. The synth-driven pop-rock song was Seger’s first and only No. 1 hit on the pop singles chart, though the 1978 recording of “Old Time Rock & Roll” from his 10th studio album, Stranger in Town, was recognized as one of the Songs of the Century in 2001. In honor of his May 6 birthday, let’s learn some additional fun facts about the star:
1 He goes silent before and after shows
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To protect his famous voice, Seger doesn’t speak in the hours right before or after his concerts. He is also not known for sharing stories or anecdotes during his shows, as he prefers to let the music speak for itself — after all, that’s what the fans came for, right?
2 He didn’t write “Old Time Rock & Roll”
Though Seger famously sings “Old Time Rock and Roll,” the songwriting credits actually go to George Jackson and Tom Jones III. Seger did tweak some of the lyrics, but opted not to take credit. He later admitted he wished he had, because he missed out on royalties from one of the most recognizable rock anthems of all time.
3 He cowrote a No. 1 hit for the Eagles
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He cowrote “Heartache Tonight,” which became a No. 1 hit for the Eagles. His knack for melody and storytelling has made him one of the most respected writers in the business, even when he’s not the one singing. He’s also written “We’ve Got Tonight,” which Kenny Rogers and Sheena Easton made famous.
4 He’s had the same manager for over 50 years
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Seger has worked with his manager Punch Andrews for around 50 years. Andrews is also known for working with fellow Michigan-based artist Kid Rock as well as Grand Funk Railroad during the mid-1990s.
5 He took 11 years off to raise his kids
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At the height of his career, Seger stepped away from the spotlight to focus on his family. He paused recording and touring for 11 years, returning in 2006 with new music and a renewed sense of purpose. He shares two children with his third wife Juanita Dorricott. The two wed in 1993.
6 He made a little mistake in “Night Moves”
Seger’s hit “Night Moves” includes the line “hummin’ a song from 1962,” which he later explained was meant to reference The Ronettes‘ “Be My Baby.” The only problem? That song came out in 1963. Oops.
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