Nina Gordon Bio, Wiki, Age, Height, Husband, Children, Jeff Russo, Songs, Albums, and Net Worth

Nina Gordon Biography

Nina Gordon is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist who was born in Washington, D.C., and brought up in Chicago, Illinois, United States of America. She is widely known as the co-founder of the alternative rock band Veruca Salt and performed on their first two studio albums, American Thighs (1994) and Eight Arms to Hold You in the year 1997.

During that time, Gordon wrote the band’s hit singles “Seether” as well as “Volcano Girls”. After leaving Veruca Salt, she released two solo albums, Tonight as well as the Rest of My Life (2000) and Bleeding Heart Graffiti (2006). Then, she rejoined Veruca Salt for their album Ghost Notes (2015).

10 Quick Facts About Nina Gordon

  • Name: Nina Gordon
  • Age: 56 years old
  • Birthday: November 14
  • Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
  • Height: 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m)
  • Nationality: American
  • Occupation: Singer, Songwriter, and Guitarist
  • Marital Status: Married
  • Salary: Under Review
  • Net Worth: $12 Million
  • Nina Gordon Age

    Gordon is 56 years old. She was born on November 14, 1967 in Washington, D.C., United States. She celebrates her birthday on 14 November every year and her birth sign is Scorpio.

    Nina Gordon Height

    Gordon stands at a height of 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m). Her body measurements are 29-22-31 inches.

    Nina Gordon Weight

    Gordon Weighs 48 kg (106 lbs). She has green eyes and blonde hair.

    Early Life and Education

    Gordon was born on November 14, 1967, in Washington, D.C.. Her father was a law student at the time of her birth. Her family moved frequently during her childhood, living in Washington D.C., Madison, Wisconsin, and finally settling in Chicago, Illinois when she was a teenager. Her parents had a turbulent relationship and eventually divorced.

    Gordon attended the Latin School of Chicago for high school. Initially, she planned to major in music at college, but ultimately enrolled in Tufts University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in art history.

    Although she pursued art history, her love for music remained strong throughout her college years and eventually led her to drop out of Tufts and pursue a career in music full-time. Some sources claim her birthplace as Chicago, while others state Washington D.C. The most reliable information suggests it was Washington D.C.

    Rise to Fame

    Nina Gordon’s path to fame wasn’t a straight shot. It was a journey fueled by passion, talent, and a fateful meeting in a Chicago club. Here’s a closer look at her rise to fame:

    While studying art history at Tufts, Gordon played guitar and sang in college bands, honing her musical skills. Back in Chicago, she immersed herself in the city’s vibrant alternative rock scene, performing at clubs like Lounge Ax.

    In 1992, she responded to an ad by bassist Louise Post, seeking a singer for their band. This chance encounter marked the turning point in her career. The chemistry between Gordon and Post was undeniable. They formed Veruca Salt, a band that quickly gained attention with their energetic live shows and raw, melodic sound.

    Nina Gordon Family, Parents

    Gordon was born to a Jewish family in Washington, D.C. Her father Robert B. Shapiro, was a law student at the time of her birth. She was raised alongside her brother, Jim Shapiro, in several different locations, moving between Washington, D.C. and Madison, Wisconsin, prior to settling in Chicago when Gordon was a teenager. Gordon has commented that her parents had a turbulent relationship and were eventually divorced in her childhood.

    Nina Gordon Husband

    Gordon is currently married to her husband Jeff Russo. They are blessed with two children. Jeff Russo is an American composer, songwriter, guitarist, vocalist, and music producer, and one of the two founding members of the American rock band Tonic. He is also a founding member of the acoustic rock band Low Stars.

    Nina Gordon Children

    Gordon and her husband Jeff Russo have two children together. More information about her children is not known, they are always kept away from the public media. We will update this section as soon as we get any information about them.

    Nina Gordon Net Worth

    Gordon has an estimated net worth of $12 million dollars as of 2023. This includes her assets, money, and income. Her primary source of income is her career as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist. Through her various sources of income, Nina has been able to accumulate good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.

    Nina Gordon Measurements and Facts

    Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Nina.

    Nina Gordon Wiki

    • Full Names: Nina Rachel Gordon Shapiro
    • Popular As: Nina
    • Gender: Female
    • Occupation / Profession: Singer, Songwriter, and Guitarist
    • Nationality: American
    • Race / Ethnicity: White
    • Religion: Not Known
    • Sexual Orientation: Straight

    Nina Gordon Birthday

    • Age / How Old?: 56 years old
    • Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
    • Date of Birth: November 14, 1967
    • Place of Birth: Washington, D.C., United States
    • Birthday: November 14

    Nina Gordon Body Measurements

    • Body Measurements: 29-22-31 inches
    • Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m)
    • Weight: 48 kg (106 lbs)
    • Eye Color: Green
    • Hair Color: Blonde
    • Shoe Size: Not Available
    • Breast Size: 29 inches
    • Waist Size: 22 inches
    • Hip Size: 31 inches

    Nina Gordon Family and Relationship

    • Father (Dad): Robert B. Shapiro
    • Mother: Not Known
    • Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): Jim Shapiro
    • Marital Status: Married
    • Husband/Spouse: Married to Jeff Russo
    • Dating / Boyfriend: Not Applicable
    • Children: Two (2)

    Nina Gordon Net Worth and Salary

    • Net Worth: $12 Million
    • Salary: Under Review
    • Source of Income: Singer, Songwriter, and Guitarist

    Nina Gordon Even The Sunbeams

    Gordon began recording her second album with Ethan Johns in late 2003, and via her website stated she was excited with the direction the album was going, even though it was very, very mellow and sad.

    Gordon finished recording with Johns in early 2004 and stated that she had named it Even the Sunbeams, but little more about the album was ever revealed.

    A few months later, Gordon admitted she was unhappy with the album and she wasn’t going to release it. The only song that surfaced from this recording session was “Lighter on the Moon”, which was available on Nina’s MySpace site.

    In April 2006, Gordon stated in the Chicago Reader, “It’s a really sad and really slow record. I guess that’s how I was feeling at the time, but when I sorta snapped out of that, I thought, ‘I don’t know that I want this to be the album I put out next.’

    It’s really a lovely record, but it didn’t have the spirit of the records I’ve made in the past.”Some songs were re-recorded and included in her next album. The remaining songs were eventually made available free on her website as an EP titled “Songs from Even the Sunbeams.”

    During this time, Gordon was performing at Largo in Los Angeles, for “Bring the Rock” nights, covering songs by N.W.A, Skid Row, Backstreet Boys, and Phil Collins, as well as many others. Her cover of N.W.A’s “Straight Outta Compton” gained her popularity on Internet music blogs.

    She also wrote a song with Fefe Dobson titled “Get You Off” for Dobson’s album Sunday Love (on which Gordon also sang back-up), as well as a song for Courtney Jaye’s album Traveling Light titled “This Is the Day”, which she wrote with boyfriend Jeff Russo.

    Still seeing promise in the material from Even the Sunbeams, Gordon booked producer and long-time friend Bob Rock to re-record the album in 2005. In a few months, Nina re-did most of the songs and recorded new songs as well.

    The album, now titled Bleeding Heart Graffiti, was released on August 8, 2006 (originally scheduled to be released on July 18). The first song to see the light of day from the project was the B-side “The Blue Hour”, a half-French, half-English rock song that could be heard on Nina’s website.

    The lead single from Bleeding Heart Graffiti, “Kiss Me ‘Til It Bleeds”, was supposed to hit radio on June 12, but ended up being delayed until mid-July.

    There was a “physical” promotional single for “Kiss Me ‘Til It Bleeds” and it contained the Bleeding Heart Graffiti album track “Don’t Let Me Down”, as well as Nina’s previous hit single, “Tonight and the Rest of My Life”.

    Almost all radio stations received digital copies of the single rather than physical CD singles, however. There was no video for “Kiss Me ‘Til It Bleeds” or plans for a video at all.

    Nina Gordon Cello

    Gordon is an Associate Professor of Cello and Chamber music at Illinois Wesleyan University, formerly Principal Cellist with the Illinois Symphony Orchestra.

    Her education includes the Moscow State Conservatory (Russia), the University of Tel-Aviv (Israel), and the University of Kansas, Lawrence, where she received her DMA. Among her teachers were Natalia Shakhovskaya (Russia), Michael Haran (Israel), George Ricci and Edward Laut (USA).

    Prior to coming to Illinois, Nina Gordon was Principal Cellist of the Kansas City Symphony and the Kansas City Chamber Orchestra and taught Cello and Chamber Music at the University of Missouri, Kansas City.

    Earlier she held positions with the Israel Chamber Orchestra under Rudolf Barshai and the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra under Zubin Mehta; she was Associate Principal Cellist with the Florida Philharmonic, and Principal Cellist with the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder, Colorado.

    She has also been a faculty member at the Ameropa Chamber Music Festival in Prague, Czech Republic, and at the International Chamber Music Festival in Positano, Italy; and presently, she is Artistic Director of the International Chamber Music Academy in Kyustendil, Bulgaria.

    Nina Gordon Tonight and the Rest of My Life

    Tonight and the Rest of My Life is the debut album from Veruca Salt’s co-founder, Nina Gordon. The album was recorded with Bob Rock at his Maui recording studio.

    Nina Gordon Songs

    • Seether American Thighs · 1994
    • Volcano Girls Eight Arms to Hold You · 1997
    • Now I Can Die Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Kiss Me ‘Til It Bleeds Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Horses in the City Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • The End of the World Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000 2003
    • Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Hold on to Me Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Hate Your Way Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Too Slow to Ride Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • The Time Comes Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Badway Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Number One Camera Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Got Me Down Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Number One Blind American Thighs · 1994
    • Bones and a Name Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Turn On Your Radio Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Straight Outta Compton 2007
    • Louder in Outer Space 2017
    • Fade to Black Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • All Hail Me American Thighs · 1994
    • New Year’s Eve Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Don’t Let Me Down Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • This Was the Year Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • The Crickets Sound Like Sleigh Bells Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Black and Blonde Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Pure Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Suffragette Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Christmas Lights Bleeding Heart Graffiti · 2006
    • Tonight and the Rest of My Life Tonight and the Rest of My Life · 2000
    • Shutterbug Eight Arms to Hold You · 1997
    • Lighter on the Moon

    Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences

    Travel:

    • Extensive touring with Veruca Salt: Nina spent several years touring the world, playing in Europe, North America, and Asia. While specific locations might not be readily available, these experiences undoubtedly broadened her cultural perspective and provided inspiration for her music.
    • Solo touring and artistic retreats: Nina has continued to tour solo and participate in artist residencies in various locations. She’s mentioned spending time in the Pacific Northwest and Europe, finding inspiration in nature and different cultural environments.
    • Exploration of yoga and mindfulness: Nina’s passion for yoga has led her to attend workshops and retreats in locations known for their yoga traditions, like India and Costa Rica.

    Events and Experiences:

    • Performing at iconic venues: Nina has graced the stages of renowned music venues like the Hollywood Bowl, Glastonbury Festival, and Fuji Rock Festival. These experiences highlight her musical prowess and connection with diverse audiences.
    • Collaborations with other artists: Working with musicians like John Wesley Harding and Luna and performing alongside artists like Nirvana and Radiohead expanded her artistic horizons and offered unique experiences.
    • Personal growth and self-discovery: Nina’s journey through solo music creation and yoga practice has been a continuous exploration of self-discovery and growth. These experiences are reflected in her introspective lyrics and artistic development.

    Noteworthy mentions:

    • Nina’s social media occasionally features glimpses of her travels, including nature walks and scenic landscapes, hinting at her appreciation for new environments.
    • She has expressed a love for the Pacific Northwest, citing its natural beauty and creative energy as sources of inspiration.
    • While specific details on travel might be limited, it’s evident that Nina’s experiences on the road and in different settings have shaped her artistic expression and personal growth.

    Future Aspirations and Goals

    Musical Focus:

    • Continuing solo exploration: Nina seems to thrive on artistic exploration, so we can expect her to continue experimenting with different genres and styles in her music. This could involve collaborations with new artists or delving deeper into specific musical influences.
    • More live performances: With the success of Veruca Salt’s reunion and her own solo shows, Nina might choose to tour more extensively, connecting with fans and showcasing her evolving music live.
    • Creative projects beyond albums: Nina’s interest in visual arts and filmmaking might lead to interdisciplinary projects combining music with other artistic mediums.

    Personal Growth and Activism:

    • Deepening her yoga and mindfulness practice: Nina’s passion for yoga and its impact on her well-being could lead to further exploration of the practice, potentially through workshops, retreats, or even teaching others.
    • Advocating for social and environmental causes: Nina’s vocal support for issues like climate change and social justice might lead to more active involvement in advocacy work. This could involve collaborations with other artists or organizations, or using her platform to raise awareness.

    Exploration of New Ventures:

    • Writing and storytelling: Nina’s introspective lyrics and artistic sensibilities suggest potential for writing beyond music, such as poetry, memoirs, or even screenplays.
    • Mentorship and education: Her experience and knowledge could lead to mentoring aspiring musicians or sharing her insights through workshops or educational programs.
    • Focus on visual arts: Nina’s talent as a painter and visual artist could lead to increased focus on this aspect of her creative expression, possibly showcasing her work in exhibitions or collaborating with other artists.

    Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement

    Philanthropy and Charity:

    • Supporting Music Education: Nina has been a vocal advocate for music education, particularly for underprivileged communities. She has participated in events and initiatives that provide instruments and access to music programs for children.
    • Environmental Activism: Nina actively supports environmental causes, raising awareness about issues like climate change and deforestation. She has participated in benefit concerts and campaigns, urging action for a sustainable future.
    • Social Justice Advocacy: Nina lends her voice to various social justice issues, including LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and human rights. She has used her platform to speak out against discrimination and injustice, encouraging empathy and understanding.
    • Supporting Mental Health Awareness: Recognizing the mental health challenges faced by artists and others, Nina has participated in initiatives that promote mental well-being and provide resources for support.

    Community Involvement:

    • Yoga and Mindfulness Workshops: Nina shares her passion for yoga and mindfulness by leading workshops and retreats. These events offer accessible tools for stress reduction and personal growth, benefiting individuals and communities.
    • Mentorship and Education: Nina actively mentors young musicians and artists, offering guidance and support in their creative pursuits. She also participates in educational programs and panels, sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring artists.
    • Supporting Local Arts: Nina actively engages with the local arts scene, attending events, collaborating with artists, and advocating for the importance of art in society. This involvement strengthens communities and fosters creative expression.

    Nina Gordon Awards Accomplishments and Achievements

    With Veruca Salt:

    • Commercial Success:
      • Multi-platinum albums: “American Thighs” (1994) and “Eight Arms to Hold You” (1997) reached platinum status.
      • Top 10 hits: “Seether,” “Fast Forward,” and “Volcano Girls” all charted in the top 10 of the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.
      • Sold-out tours: Veruca Salt extensively toured the world, building a dedicated fanbase.
    • Critical Acclaim:
      • Positive reviews: Veruca Salt’s albums received critical acclaim for their raw energy, catchy melodies, and emotional depth.
      • Influence on the scene: They are considered pioneers of the alternative rock movement, influencing countless bands and solidifying their place in music history.

    Solo Career:

    • Artistic Evolution: Nina has consistently explored different musical directions with her solo albums, showcasing her versatility and growth as an artist.
    • Dedicated Fanbase: She has built a loyal following who appreciate her introspective lyrics, powerful vocals, and diverse musical palette.
    • Collaboration and Production: Her work with other artists and ventures into production demonstrate her creative reach and willingness to collaborate.

    Beyond Music:

    • Visual Arts: Nina’s artistic expression extends beyond music, with her work as a painter and visual artist adding another dimension to her creative identity.
    • Advocacy and Activism: Her passion for yoga and mindfulness, and her vocal support for social and environmental causes, highlight her commitment to personal and societal well-being.

    Legacy

    Musical Influence:

    • Pioneering Alternative Rock: As the vocalist of Veruca Salt, Nina helped define the sound of alternative rock in the 90s. Their raw energy, catchy melodies, and emotionally charged lyrics inspired countless musicians and continue to resonate with fans today.
    • Solo Exploration and Versatility: Her solo career showcases her artistic depth and versatility. Experimenting with genres like folk, jazz, and electronica, Nina defies boundaries and proves her ability to connect with diverse audiences.
    • Lyrical Vulnerability and Depth: Nina’s introspective lyrics explore themes of love, loss, self-discovery, and social issues. Her vulnerability and honesty resonate with listeners, creating a sense of connection and shared humanity.

    Beyond Music:

    • Yoga and Mindfulness Advocate: Nina’s passion for yoga extends beyond personal practice. She actively promotes its benefits through workshops, retreats, and collaborations, encouraging well-being and self-awareness.
    • Social and Environmental Activism: Nina uses her platform to raise awareness about critical issues like climate change, social justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. Her voice inspires action and fosters positive change.
    • Visual Arts Exploration: Nina’s artistic expression isn’t confined to music. She’s a talented painter and visual artist, showcasing her work in exhibitions and online, demonstrating her multifaceted creativity.

    Lasting Impact:

    • Inspiring a Generation: Nina’s journey as a female artist navigating the music industry inspires aspiring musicians, especially women, to pursue their passions and challenge boundaries.
    • Empowering Vulnerability: Her willingness to share her vulnerabilities in music and life encourages others to do the same, fostering connection and understanding.
    • Championing Creativity and Growth: Nina’s dedication to artistic exploration and personal growth inspires others to embrace their own creative journeys and strive for continuous evolution.

    Hobbies and Interests

    Creative Pursuits:

    • Visual Art: Painting is a known passion for Nina. She has showcased her work in exhibitions and online, revealing her talent and artistic expression beyond music.
    • Writing: Nina’s introspective lyrics hint at a potential interest in broader writing, like poetry or even memoirs.
    • Music beyond performance: While music is her primary artistic expression, Nina might enjoy exploring other musical avenues like composing or learning new instruments.

    Yoga and Mindfulness:

    • A dedicated yoga practitioner, Nina often incorporates mindfulness practices into her life. This suggests an interest in meditation, breathwork, and other techniques for well-being.
    • She has hosted yoga workshops and retreats, showcasing her passion for sharing these practices with others.

    Nature and Travel:

    • Nina has mentioned a particular love for the Pacific Northwest, appreciating its natural beauty and creative energy. This suggests an interest in spending time outdoors and exploring new environments.
    • Her extensive touring with Veruca Salt and solo shows likely fostered a love for travel, even if specific details haven’t been widely shared.

    Social Impact:

    • Nina’s vocal advocacy for environmental and social justice causes indicates an interest in staying informed and engaged with current issues.
    • Her support for music education and local arts suggests a passion for nurturing creative expression and building strong communities.

    Personal Beliefs

    Spiritual and Philosophical Beliefs:

    • Openness and introspection: Nina’s music often explores themes of self-discovery, questioning, and searching for meaning. This suggests an open and questioning mind, potentially leaning towards spiritual exploration or personal philosophy.
    • Yoga and mindfulness: Her dedication to yoga and mindfulness practices indicates an interest in self-awareness, inner peace, and connecting with the present moment. This aligns with various spiritual and philosophical traditions.

    Social and Political Beliefs:

    • Social justice advocacy: Nina’s vocal support for LGBTQ+ rights, racial equality, and other social justice causes suggests a strong belief in fairness, equality, and human rights.
    • Environmental activism: Her concern for the environment and participation in climate change initiatives imply a belief in environmental sustainability and protecting the planet.

    Personal Values:

    • Authenticity and vulnerability: Nina’s music and public persona often feel raw and honest, suggesting a value for authenticity and expressing oneself openly.
    • Creativity and exploration: Her artistic journey, spanning genres and mediums, reflects a value for artistic exploration and personal growth.
    • Community and connection: Her involvement in yoga workshops, collaborations, and social activism indicates a value for building connections and contributing to something larger than oneself.

    Quotes

    “Art is about pushing boundaries and challenging people to think differently.”

    “Music is my therapy. It’s how I process things and how I connect with the world.”

    “I don’t want to be defined by my past. I want to keep evolving and making music that feels new and exciting to me.”

    “We all have a responsibility to speak out against injustice.”

    “Making a difference in the world is more important than anything else.”

    “It’s important to be honest with yourself and with others. That’s how you grow and learn.”

    “The journey of self-discovery is never-ending, but it’s the most important journey we can take.”

    “I’m not afraid to be vulnerable in my music. I think that’s what connects with people.”

    “It’s okay not to have all the answers. Just keep moving forward.”

    “Yoga has taught me to find peace in the present moment.”

    Conclusion

    Nina is a trailblazer. She is not afraid to break the mold and do things differently. She is an inspiration to us all to follow our own path and to never let anyone tell us that we can’t achieve our dreams.

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