Mark Herndon is best known as the drummer for the legendary country music band Alabama. His contribution to the band’s success is undeniable, as his rock-influenced drumming style helped shape their signature sound. Over the years, fans have been curious about his net worth, personal life, and career journey. This article explores his biography, career, personal life, and other intriguing details.
Quick Bio: Mark Herndon Net Worth
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Mark Herndon |
Date of Birth | May 11, 1955 |
Age | 69 years old (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Springfield, Massachusetts, USA |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Drummer, Musician |
Band | Alabama (Former Member) |
Genre | Country, Rock |
Years Active | 1973 – Present |
Net Worth | Estimated $5 million |
Marital Status | Married |
Children | N/A |
Notable Works | Drummer for Alabama |
Social Media | Not very active |
Mark Herndon’s Net Worth
Mark Herndon has an estimated net worth of $5 million as of 2024. His wealth primarily comes from his successful music career, particularly his time as the drummer for Alabama, one of the most famous country bands in history. Although he left the band many years ago, his earnings from album sales, tours, and royalties have contributed to his financial stability.
Additionally, Herndon has made some money from his memoir, The High Road: Memories from a Long Trip, which details his journey in the music industry. Despite a few legal battles with his former bandmates regarding financial disputes, Herndon has managed to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Early Life and Background
Mark Herndon was born on May 11, 1955, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Unlike many country musicians, he did not grow up in the South but was raised in a military family. His father was a Marine Corps pilot, which led to frequent relocations during his childhood.
During his early years, Herndon developed a passion for music, particularly rock and roll. He was influenced by legendary rock drummers like John Bonham (Led Zeppelin) and Neil Peart (Rush). This background would later make his drumming style unique in the country music industry, as he brought a rock edge to Alabama’s sound.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2024, Mark Herndon is 69 years old.
Physical Attributes:
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Weight: Around 75 kg (165 lbs)
- Hair Color: Formerly brown, now mostly gray
- Eye Color: Brown
Despite his age, he remains relatively fit and occasionally makes public appearances, though he keeps a low profile compared to his Alabama days.
Education
Mark Herndon’s formal education details are not widely documented, but due to his military family background, he likely attended various schools as his family moved frequently.
His real education came from music. He learned to play drums at an early age, inspired by rock and roll, and later transitioned into country music when he joined Alabama.
His Father
Mark’s father was a Marine Corps pilot, which influenced his disciplined work ethic. Due to his father’s military career, the family moved often, which gave Mark exposure to different cultures and music styles. Though his father was not a musician, he supported Mark’s passion for drumming.
His Mother
There is limited public information about Mark Herndon’s mother. However, given his upbringing in a military family, it is likely that she played a vital role in keeping the family together through frequent relocations.
Children
Mark Herndon has kept his personal life private, and there is no confirmed information regarding him having children. Unlike his former Alabama bandmates, who have openly shared details about their families, Herndon prefers to stay out of the limelight.
Who Is Mark Herndon?
Mark Herndon is an American drummer best known for being the longtime drummer of the country band Alabama. While Alabama was originally a country band, Herndon’s rock drumming style helped shape their unique sound, setting them apart from other country artists of the time.
He was part of the band from 1979 to 2004, during which Alabama achieved massive success, selling over 75 million records worldwide and winning numerous awards, including:
- Grammy Awards
- CMA Awards
- ACM Awards
However, after leaving the band, Herndon had a falling out with his former bandmates over financial disputes. Despite this, his legacy as one of the most influential drummers in country music history remains intact.
Mark Herndon’s Current Life
Where Is Mark Herndon Now?
Since leaving Alabama, Mark Herndon has mostly stayed away from the public eye. However, he did release a book titled “The High Road: Memories from a Long Trip”, which details his life in the band, his experiences on tour, and the conflicts he faced.
Although he is not actively involved in the music industry anymore, he occasionally makes guest appearances at music events.
Is Mark Herndon Still Playing Music?
Mark Herndon no longer plays music professionally as part of a band, but he still plays drums for fun and occasionally participates in special music projects.
Mark Herndon’s Relationship With Alabama Now
His relationship with the members of Alabama has remained strained due to financial and legal disputes. Although he was once an integral part of the band, he was never officially recognized as a full member, which led to disputes over his share of the band’s earnings.
Despite this, fans still consider him an important part of Alabama’s history.

Conclusion
Mark Herndon is a talented drummer who played a crucial role in shaping Alabama’s sound. Despite his rocky relationship with his former bandmates, his contributions to country music cannot be overlooked.
With a net worth of approximately $5 million, he has secured financial stability, even after leaving the band. While he may not be in the limelight anymore, his influence on country rock drumming remains significant.
For fans of Alabama, Mark Herndon will always be remembered as the drummer who brought a rock-and-roll edge to country music.
FAQ‘s: Mark Herndon Net Worth
1. What is Mark Herndon’s net worth?
Mark Herndon’s net worth is estimated to be $5 million as of 2024.
2. Why did Mark Herndon leave Alabama?
Mark Herndon left Alabama in 2004. His departure was followed by legal disputes over financial matters with the band members.
3. Is Mark Herndon still alive?
Yes, Mark Herndon is alive and is 69 years old as of 2024.
4. Does Mark Herndon have children?
There is no confirmed information about Mark Herndon having children.
5. What is Mark Herndon doing now?
He is retired from professional music but occasionally makes public appearances and enjoys drumming as a hobby.