At 31 years old, Cher Lloyd has built an impressive career as a singer, rapper, and entrepreneur, amassing a net worth of $4 million. She first gained prominence after competing on “The X Factor UK” in 2010, and since then, she has released chart-topping singles, two studio albums, and a successful streetwear brand. Lloyd’s journey from a contestant on a reality show to a global pop sensation is a testament to her talent and determination.
Who is Cher Lloyd?
Born on July 28, 1993, in Malvern, Worcestershire, England, Cher Lloyd comes from a Romani background. Her parents, Darren and Diane Lloyd, raised her alongside her three younger siblings: Sophie, Josh, and Rosie. As a child, her family traveled around Wales in a Romani caravan, which made her a target of bullying during her school years.
Despite the challenges she faced, Lloyd developed a passion for music and performing arts, attending Dyson Perrins High School and later enrolling in Stagecoach Theatre Arts. Her early experiences shaped her unique musical style, blending pop, hip-hop, and rap.
How Did Cher Lloyd Start Her Career?
Early Attempts at “The X Factor”
Before gaining recognition on “The X Factor UK” in 2010, Lloyd had auditioned for the show multiple times but did not advance past the preliminary rounds. Initially performing as a ballad singer, she struggled to stand out. However, after refining her style and embracing hip-hop influences, she returned to the competition with a fresh approach.
Breakthrough on “The X Factor”
Lloyd’s audition for the seventh season of “The X Factor” UK was a defining moment in her career. She performed Soulja Boy’s “Turn My Swag On,” earning praise from the judges and capturing the audience’s attention. Throughout the competition, she performed a variety of songs, including:
- Coldplay’s “Viva La Vida”
- Mike Posner’s “Cooler Than Me”
- Avril Lavigne’s “Girlfriend”
- Elton John’s “Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word”
Although she ultimately placed fourth, her unique style and stage presence made her one of the most talked-about contestants of the season.
What Happened After “The X Factor”?
Debut Album and Chart-Topping Success
After “The X Factor,” Lloyd signed a record deal with Syco Music, Simon Cowell’s label. She quickly began working with top producers such as RedOne, Johnny Powers, and The Runners, leading to the release of her debut single, “Swagger Jagger,” in July 2011. The song debuted at No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart, selling over 200,000 copies in Britain alone.
Her debut album, “Sticks + Stones”, was released in November 2011, featuring collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Mike Posner, and Dot Rotten. The album was a commercial success, reaching:
- No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart
- No. 7 in Ireland
- No. 2 in the US (American edition released in 2012)
Breakthrough in the U.S.
In 2012, Lloyd signed with Epic Records in the U.S. under the leadership of L.A. Reid. Her single “Want U Back” became her breakout hit in America, peaking at:
- No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100
- No. 5 on the Billboard Digital Songs Chart
- No. 9 on the Billboard Pop Songs Chart
The song sold over 2 million copies in the U.S. alone, solidifying her international success.
How Did Cher Lloyd Continue Her Music Career?
Second Album: “Sorry I’m Late” (2014)
Lloyd released her second studio album, “Sorry I’m Late,” in May 2014. The album featured hits like “I Wish” featuring T.I. and “Sirens,” showcasing a more mature sound. It debuted at:
- No. 12 on the Billboard 200
- No. 21 on the UK Albums Chart
Despite moderate success, her label, Epic Records, dropped her later that year. She then signed with Universal Music Group, but her career took a two-year break.
Independent Comeback and New Music
In 2016, Lloyd released the single “Activated”, marking a shift toward an independent music career. Over the next few years, she continued to release singles, including:
- “None of My Business” (2018)
- “M.I.A.” (2019)
- “Lost” (2020)
Despite stepping away from major labels, Lloyd remained an influential figure in pop music.
What Business Ventures Has Cher Lloyd Pursued?
Fashion and Entrepreneurship
In 2019, Lloyd launched her own streetwear brand, “Glo,” in collaboration with Post Kulture. The brand featured an 11-piece collection that sold exclusively through the Post Kulture website. Lloyd’s fashion-forward approach and bold aesthetics made the brand a success.
Her involvement in fashion and branding has added to her $4 million net worth, providing her with an alternative revenue stream outside of music.
What is Cher Lloyd’s Personal Life Like?
Lloyd has kept much of her personal life private, but she has shared key milestones:
- Engaged to hairdresser Craig Monk in January 2012
- Secretly married Monk in November 2013 at just 20 years old
- Welcomed daughter Delilah-Rae Monk in May 2018
Lloyd is also known for her distinct tattoos, with over 20 inked designs. Each tattoo holds personal significance, including:
- A cage with a bird, representing her late uncle
- A heart on her ring finger, symbolizing her love for her husband
How Does Cher Lloyd Make Her Money?
Lloyd’s $4 million net worth is the result of music sales, endorsements, tours, and business ventures. Here’s a breakdown of her estimated annual earnings:
| Income Source | Estimated Earnings |
|---|---|
| Music Sales & Streaming | $500K – $1 million |
| Touring & Live Performances | $200K – $500K |
| Fashion Brand (Glo) | $300K – $700K |
| Endorsements & Sponsorships | $250K – $500K |
Despite stepping back from mainstream music, Lloyd has managed to build financial stability through her entrepreneurial mindset.
What’s Next for Cher Lloyd in 2025?
As Lloyd enters a new phase of her career, fans are eagerly awaiting her next move. In 2025, she is expected to:
- Release new music, possibly an EP or full-length album
- Expand her fashion brand with new collections
- Engage more with her fans through social media and live performances
- Explore collaborations with emerging artists in the pop and hip-hop industry
Final Thoughts
Cher Lloyd’s journey from “The X Factor” contestant to global pop sensation has been filled with highs and lows, but her talent and resilience have kept her relevant in the industry. With a $4 million net worth, a growing fashion empire, and loyal fans worldwide, she remains a force in music and entrepreneurship. As she continues to evolve, Lloyd’s legacy as a bold, fearless artist is only set to grow in the coming years.