Tom Petersson: The Bass Player of Cheap Trick
Tom Petersson has served as the bass player for Cheap Trick since 1974, making him one of the longest-tenured members in the band's history. He provides the low-end foundation for the power pop sound that defined hits like "Surrender" and "I Want You to Want Me." Petersson's role in the band is central to their studio recordings and live performances worldwide.
The Cheap Trick bass player contributes to a catalog that has sold over 20 million albums globally. He co-wrote several tracks on the band's latest studio release, which charted on the Billboard 200 and solidified their presence in the classic rock touring circuit. His playing style combines melodic lead lines with a driving rock rhythm.
Net Worth and Earnings
Tom Petersson Personal Net Worth
Tom Petersson net worth is estimated at $6 million as of the latest public financial disclosures and music industry reports. This figure includes earnings from album royalties, touring revenue, and licensing fees tied to the band's extensive back catalog. His income streams are supplemented by session work and occasional solo projects.
Cheap Trick's touring revenue remains a primary driver of the band's collective wealth, with annual gross figures often exceeding $10 million for major festival and arena runs. The Cheap Trick bass player receives a standard share of these earnings as a core member, structured through the band's long-standing partnership agreements. For context on how touring revenue impacts artist net worth, see Forbes top touring artists data.
Equipment and Endorsements
Bass Gear and Rig Setup
The Cheap Trick bass player is known for using a combination of Fender and custom-built bass guitars on stage and in the studio. His current primary instrument is a modified Fender Precision Bass, which he has used on multiple world tours. The rig is paired with Ampeg amplification to deliver the punchy tone characteristic of the band's live sound.
Endorsement deals with instrument manufacturers contribute a modest portion to the band's overall revenue. Petersson's gear choices are frequently analyzed in music production circles for their role in defining the power pop bass sound. A detailed breakdown of artist endorsement economics can be found in SEC filings on music company partnerships.