Oliver Anthony, the breakout star responsible for the viral sensation “Rich Men North of Richmond,” is now reportedly generating tens of thousands of dollars daily through his music. The red-bearded Virginia farmer and musician, previously in the shadows, has surged to prominence by securing the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with a song he crafted during his time in the American wilderness.
His music video, released on August 8, has already accumulated an astonishing 33 million views on YouTube and garnered widespread attention from news outlets spanning the political spectrum. The video’s description underscores its intention to provide hope to the working class and the average hardworking young man who might have lost faith in their pursuit of a better life. This song has unmistakably evolved into a blue-collar anthem resonating throughout the United States.
Los Angeles Times pop music critic Mikael Wood observed that Anthony has transformed himself into a “rich man south of Richmond.” Achieving the remarkable feat of topping iTunes and Spotify’s U.S. Top 50 charts, Anthony is reportedly amassing around $40,000 each day from music sales and streams, according to industry journal Hits.
Wood’s analysis also drew parallels between Anthony’s breakout hit and Jason Aldean’s “Try That in a Small Town,” noting both songs’ political undertones and naivety. While Aldean’s track portrays urban chaos, Anthony’s composition navigates government missteps, albeit with a tone that has been criticized for making derogatory comments about people relying on welfare. This drew comparisons to outdated political rhetoric and blame-the-poor attitudes often attributed to Ronald Reagan.
Last week, Anthony made headlines again by revealing that he had declined substantial $8 million offers from individuals within the music industry. Amidst his rapid ascent to fame, Anthony has become a sought-after act in various music venues across the country. His meteoric rise culminates in a performance at the sold-out Blue Ridge Rock Festival, where he will share the stage with renowned bands such as Pantera, Megadeth, and Evanescence.
As Anthony’s chart-topping success continues to shine, his journey from obscurity to musical stardom serves as a testament to the transformative power of viral hits in the digital age. His impact on the industry goes beyond mere numbers, sparking discussions on political and societal themes while solidifying his position as a formidable presence in the world of music.
