Ted Nugent, born Theodore Anthony Nugent on December 13, 1948, is an American hard rock musician and guitar player who started his career with The Amboy Dukes band during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Today, everyone recognizes the signature riff of his emblematic anthem, ‘Cat Scratch Fever.’ From his often-controversial stances and public statements to being one of the most iconic figures in the history of American music and the hard rock scene, Nugent is a significant personality in today’s pop culture, and we’ll help you celebrate his birthday right here.
Fast Facts
Full Name:
Theodore Anthony Nugent
Nickname:
Ted
Birth date:
December 13, 1948
Age:
75
Zodiac Sign:
Sagittarius
Height:
6' 0"
Relationship Status:
Married
Net Worth:
$10 million
Background
Ted Nugent is one of the most recognized figures in the history of hard rock music and American pop culture. He is one of the few musicians in the industry that has managed to remain relevant, following a career prime that is now considered to be decades in the past. Standing alongside numerous controversies, issues, and a new public image cultivated of late, Nugent’s music is still iconic to many, and the world-class guitarist continues to enjoy a solid fan base.
Born Theodore Anthony Nugent on December 13, 1948, in Redford Michigan, Nugent came into a family of four siblings. He grew up in Detroit within a military family, his father being a sergeant in the army. Nugent would later attend high school in Illinois and graduated in 1967. It was around this period that he formed The Amboy Dukes; they played their earlier shows in several clubs and small venues in Michigan, and later released their single, ‘Journey to the Center of the Mind.’ The band would later go through significant line-up changes, with Nugent remaining as its only consistent member.
From the 1970s onwards, Nugent embarked on a solo career to wide success. This coincided with his marriage to Sandra Jezowski, with whom he had two children before the two divorced, nine years later. He took up vows again in 1989, this time with Shemane Deziel, who gave him one child. Nugent later joined the band Damn Yankees during the 1980s and toured with them for 10 years until he re-embarked on a solo career, which has continued to bring him accomplishments to this day.
Career timeline
Nugent forms the Amboy Dukes, his most significant group project.
During this period, Nugent embarks upon a solo career, releasing several albums.
Nugent joins the supergroup alongside other fellow musicians.
Nugent brings out this title for his latest studio album, with a promise of a next release soon.
Why We Love Ted Nugent
He is a great guitar player
Nugent is an outstanding guitarist, there is no denying it. He masters several techniques and also showcases a great songwriting ability in many of his compositions. He managed to make several projects successful, and always adds his own signature touch.
‘Cat Scratch Fever’
Nugent’s Cat Scratch Fever is definitely one of the most iconic tracks in the history of music and is certainly one of our favorite songs. This song is also a prime example of what makes Nugent such an interesting musician.
His anti-drug stance
Nugent is also an outspoken proponent of anti-drug views. He was one of the few rock musicians to denounce drug use, and he has also participated in many charity works and anti-drug initiatives.
5 Surprising Facts
He is an N.R.A. member
Nugent is outspoken about his political views and is also a member of the N.R.A.
He was under official investigation
Nugent once became the subject of an investigation by the Secret Service, because of certain polemical comments he made about President Obama.
He was drafted into the military
The guitarist was drafted into the army during the 1960s but never served.
He is a Detroit sports fan
Nugent’s favorite sports teams are the Detroit Pistons, Detroit Red Wings, and Detroit Lions.
He suffers from hearing loss
With a career amid ‘the sound and the fury’ of rock music that spans several decades, it’s no surprise that Nugent currently has a hearing impairment.
Ted Nugent FAQs
What is the meaning of ‘Cat Scratch Fever?’
The name ‘Cat Scratch Fever’ refers to an actual disease contracted when a person is scratched by a cat; the song uses the disease as a metaphor.
What is Nugent’s real name?
Ted Nugent is only a short form, which became a sobriquet, as his full name is Theodore Anthony Nugent.
Did Nugent run for office?
Nugent claimed to be running for office in a 2013 interview, but never actually competed in the end.
Ted Nugent’s birthday dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | December 13 | Friday |
2025 | December 13 | Saturday |
2026 | December 13 | Sunday |
2027 | December 13 | Monday |
2028 | December 13 | Wednesday |