Is the voice of romance a man of mystery? Johnny Mathis, the celebrated singer, has captivated audiences for decades with his smooth baritone and timeless ballads, yet his personal life remains shrouded in intrigue, fueling endless speculation.
The whispers surrounding Johnny Mathis's romantic life have been a constant companion to his career. Stories of high-profile relationships, particularly one with Estelle Bennett of The Ronettes, have circulated for years, adding to the mystique surrounding the iconic singer. While the music world celebrates his talent, fans and the media alike have long been curious about his life beyond the stage.
Full Name | John Royce Mathis |
Born | September 30, 1935 (age 88) |
Birthplace | Gilmer, Texas, U.S. |
Height | 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 m) |
Known For | Singer and Songwriter, "Voice of Romance" |
Genres | Traditional Pop, Brazilian, Spanish, Soul, Rhythm and Blues, Soft Rock, Show Tunes, Tin Pan Alley, Blues, Country, Disco |
Instruments | Vocals |
Years Active | 1955present |
Record Labels | Columbia, Mercury |
Net Worth (2021) | $420 million |
Parents | Clem Mathis (Father), Mildred Boyd (Mother) |
Siblings | Ralph Mathis, Elizabeth Mathis, Michael Mathis, Marguerite McMillian, Linda Mathis |
Relationship Status | Never Married; came out as gay in 1982 |
Notable Relationships | Estelle Bennett, Regina Belle (speculated) |
Awards | Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame (1998, 2002, 2008) |
Official Website | Johnny Mathis Official Website |
Born in Gilmer, Texas, on September 30, 1935, John Royce Mathis the future "Voice of Romance" was the fourth of seven children. His father, Clem Mathis, briefly ventured into vaudeville, instilling a love for music in all his children. Young Johns early musical education included vocal lessons from Connie Cox, which he received in exchange for performing chores.
Mathiss career began in 1955 when he won a talent contest, launching him into the world of music. His voice and his talent for interpreting songs quickly gained him recognition. He started with singles of standard music, Mathis built a career that saw him highly popular as an album artist, with several of his albums achieving gold or platinum status, and 73 making the Billboard charts. The singer's discography spans a vast range, including traditional pop, Brazilian, Spanish, soul, rhythm and blues, soft rock, show tunes, tin pan alley, blues, country, and even a few disco songs.
Throughout his long and illustrious career, Mathis has received numerous accolades, including induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, 2002, and 2008 for his singles "Chances Are," "Misty," and "It's Not for Me to Say." His impact on the music industry is undeniable, with worldwide record sales exceeding 350 million.
Despite his public profile, Mathis has carefully guarded his personal life, keeping it largely away from the media's gaze. The singer has been linked to several celebrities, including Estelle Bennett and Regina Belle, but none of them were his wife. He has also stated that he has no regrets about his stand on marriage. Mathis has chosen not to publicly confirm any of his relationships. The singer has been in the music industry since 1956 and has released numerous songs and albums. The iconic American singer and songwriters discography features a vast range of musical styles and he has sold over 350 million records worldwide.
Rumors of a romance with Estelle Bennett, a member of the famous girl group The Ronettes, were widespread in the 1960s. While never officially acknowledged, the speculation only heightened the public's curiosity about Mathis's personal life. However, there is no record to prove that singer Estelle Bennett was once Johnny Mathis's wife.
Another persistent question has been about Mathiss sexuality. In a Sunday morning rewind from 2017, Mathis talked about coming out, he tells Nancy Giles why he wasn't concerned about the potential impact on his career, despite receiving death threats. Mathis came out as gay in 1982. Mathis, who has never been married or had children, has been open about his choices, offering insights into his life and perspective.
Beyond his musical achievements, Mathis has also engaged in philanthropic endeavors. He has hosted a charity golf tournament, the Shell / Johnny Mathis Golf Classic, which was held in Belfast, Northern Ireland. He has also continued to support San Francisco State University's athletics program, with his alma mater naming the "Johnny Mathis Track & Field Invitational" in his honor.
Mathiss life has also faced its share of challenges. He suffered a stroke in February 1999, which impacted his ability to perform. The stroke left him in poor health until his death in Cornersville, Tennessee, on September 27, 2011, one day shy of his 81st birthday. His wife, Jeannie Mathis, died on September 14, 2019. Despite these difficulties, Mathis's legacy as a music icon remains, proving his resilience and the enduring power of his art.
The question of whether Mathis has a husband is a common one, especially given the revelation of his sexual orientation. However, as of the latest reports, Johnny Mathis has never been married, nor does he have any children. According to reports, Mathis, the celebrated singer, has never been married. Currently, Mathis is not in a relationship.
The singer's journey is a testament to the power of music and the importance of living authentically. His songs have touched generations, and his story continues to inspire. Though his personal life has remained largely private, his artistry is a gift to the world, a melody that will forever resonate.
The enduring appeal of Johnny Mathis lies not only in his vocal prowess but also in the captivating mystery that surrounds his life. While the details of his relationships remain a matter of speculation, his music will continue to enchant audiences for years to come. Mathis has always been a man of his own choices. His music career, spanning many decades, has solidified his status as a legend.
The story of Johnny Mathis is also a narrative about the intersection of art and privacy. It is a reminder that the greatest treasures are not always those revealed, but the songs that speak to the hearts of millions.