Amy Winehouse en haar testament: wie kreeg het geld na haar dood?
Amy Winehouse and her will: a story with more twists than one of her song lyrics
Amy's will: surprising but smart
Let's be honest: when you're 27, you don't exactly think about writing a will. But Amy Winehouse actually did. In her will, she named her parents as beneficiaries – and not, thank goodness, her ex-husband Blake Fielder-Civil. A smart move, because anyone who has seen the documentary about her knows: Blake was not exactly a healthy influence.
How much money did Amy Winehouse leave behind?
One would think: millions. But no. Despite her worldwide fame, after taxes and legal fees, there was “only” three million pounds left. And from that, further costs were deducted. In the end, according to her father, only about 140,000 euros remained for her parents. Not an amount one can live a luxurious life on – but still: better than nothing.
What happened to Amy's music?
After Amy's death, her parents and the record label released an album of previously unreleased songs. You know, those “songs in the drawer” that suddenly are heard everywhere. The proceeds? They mostly went to the record label and her parents. Smart business move or a bit cynical? You get to decide.
Not a penny to Blake: Amy's will was clear
The very best thing about Amy's will? Blake Fielder-Civil got nothing. Nada. Zero. The man who introduced her to heroin and crack (seriously, why do such people exist?) didn't get a penny of her inheritance. Just that makes her will legendary.
Amy Winehouse and money: not a successful combination
Another thing that stood out: money didn't interest Amy at all. As a friend once said: “You could set a pile of money on fire in front of her, and she would use the flame to light her cigarette.” Such a rock-’n-roll attitude is of course iconic – but not very practical financially.
Amy's clothing collection: money for charity
Did you know that Amy had a clothing collection? Neither did I. But the money from it went to a charity for vulnerable children after her death. Quite nice, right? Even after her death, she helped others.
Conclusion: a will with rock-’n-roll spirit
Amy's will may not have been impressive in terms of money, but it was big in thought and intention. No money for the ex, but support for the parents and good causes. And it fits perfectly with who Amy was: a woman who didn't follow rules or expectations, but always went her own way.
5 facts about Amy Winehouse that you might not have known:
She had a giant tattoo of a pin-up girl on her arm.
Her beehive hairstyle could be up to 15 cm high.
Her favorite drink? Rickstasy (vodka, Southern Comfort, banana liqueur, and Baileys).
Her debut album Frank was nominated for the Mercury Prize.
She was a big fan of The Shangri-Las and The Ronettes.
Read more about Amy Winehouse on The Guardian.
