Grace Slick, originally Grace Barnett Wing, born on October 30, 1939, stands as a seminal figure in rock history. Her unique voice and dynamic presence shaped the psychedelic sound of the 1960s and 1970s. As the lead vocalist of Jefferson Airplane, she became a symbol of the countercultural revolution with timeless hits like "White Rabbit" and "Somebody to Love." This article explores Grace Slick's life, highlighting her early years, career achievements, personal life, and her ongoing legacy.

Quick Facts

Full Name: Grace Barnett Wing
Also Known As: Grace Slick
Professions: Musician, Painter
Age: 85 (as of 2024)
Date of Birth: October 30, 1939
Birthplace: Highland Park, Illinois, USA
Nationality: American
Height: 5'7" (170 cm)
net worth (2025): $20 million (estimated)
Parents: Ivan Wilford Wing, Virginia Wing
Marriages: Jerry Slick (1961-1971), Skip Johnson (1976-1994)
Children: China Wing Kantner

Early Life and Influences

Born in Highland Park, Illinois, Grace Slick was the daughter of Ivan Wilford Wing, an investment banker, and Virginia Wing, a homemaker. The family moved frequently, eventually settling in Palo Alto, California. Encouraged by her mother, Grace developed a strong interest in the arts during her time at Palo Alto High School.

Educational Journey

Grace attended Finch College in New York and later transferred to the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida. While initially pursuing a conventional education, she soon gravitated towards music and arts, influenced by the vibrant cultural scenes of New York and Miami.

Career Milestones

Grace Slick's musical journey is marked by her versatility and profound influence in the industry. From her beginnings in The Great Society to her impactful years with Jefferson Airplane and beyond, her career is a testament to her enduring legacy.

The Great Society

In 1965, Grace joined The Great Society, a band started by her then-husband Jerry Slick and his brother Darby Slick. Their debut performance on October 15, 1965, at The Matrix in San Francisco marked the start of her professional music career.

Jefferson Airplane

The year 1966 was pivotal for Grace when she joined Jefferson Airplane. The band's 1967 album, Surrealistic Pillow, catapulted them to fame with hits like "White Rabbit" and "Somebody to Love," both of which featured her compelling vocals and lyrical depth.

Jefferson Starship and Starship

Following the disbandment of Jefferson Airplane in the early 1970s, Grace was integral to the formation of Jefferson Starship, which continued to push musical boundaries. The band's evolution into Starship in the 1980s brought mainstream success with hits such as "We Built This City" and "Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now."

Solo Career and Collaborations

Grace also enjoyed a solo career, releasing albums like Manhole (1974) and Dreams (1980). Her collaborations with artists like David Crosby and Paul Kantner further showcased her versatility.

Personal Life

Grace's life off-stage was as vibrant and challenging as her career. This section delves into her personal relationships, family life, and the obstacles she overcame.

Relationships and Family

Grace was first married to Jerry Slick, drummer of The Great Society, and later to lighting designer Skip Johnson. She has one daughter, China Wing Kantner, with Jefferson Airplane bandmate Paul Kantner.

Health and Resilience

Grace has openly addressed her struggles with alcohol and substance abuse, and in 2006, she underwent surgery for diverticulitis. Despite these challenges, her resilience continues to inspire many.

Legacy and Honors

Grace Slick's contributions have been widely acknowledged:

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction (1996): As a member of Jefferson Airplane.
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (2016): Recognizing Jefferson Airplane's impact.
Literary Contributions: Her autobiography, Somebody to Love? A Rock and Roll Memoir (1998), provides a candid look at her life and the rock and roll era.

Financial Insights

With an estimated net worth of $20 million in 2024, Grace's financial success stems from her music career, royalties, and ventures in visual arts, where she continues to sell her paintings.

Conclusion

Grace Slick remains a defining figure in rock music. Her powerful voice, bold personality, and artistic integrity have left a lasting impact on the music industry and continue to inspire new generations of artists and fans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Grace Slick's most famous songs?
"White Rabbit" and "Somebody to Love" with Jefferson Airplane.
Did Grace Slick have a solo career?
Yes, she released several solo albums including Manhole and Dreams.
What is Grace Slick doing now?
Since retiring from music in 1990, she focuses on her visual art career.
How did Grace Slick influence the countercultural movement?
Her music and persona embodied the spirit of rebellion and social change during the 1960s.
Has Grace Slick written any books?
Yes, her autobiography Somebody to Love? A Rock and Roll Memoir was published in 1998.