Before Orville Peck became the masked country star we know today, he was a punk drummer in Vancouver’s underground scene — a surprising revelation to his friend Chappell Roan. During an interview with Nardwuar the Human Serviette, Roan learned about Peck’s punk past when Nardwuar presented her with a vinyl compilation from the now-defunct Vancouver venue, the Emergency Room.
On the LP’s booklet, there’s a photo of the band Nü Sensae in their original duo lineup. While singer-bassist Andrea Lukic is in focus, the drummer in the background — head down and out of focus — was none other than Orville Peck himself. This connection between his punk origins and his modern-day masked country persona reveals the fascinating evolution of his artistic journey.
We also have more detailed insights on Orville Peck’s career, net worth, measurements, and personal life.
Who is Orville Peck?
Orville Peck, born Daniel Pitout on January 6, 1988, in Johannesburg, South Africa, is a Canadian-based country musician renowned for his distinctive masked appearance and deep baritone voice.
Peck spent his early years in South Africa before relocating to Canada at the age of 15. He grew up in a musical family, with his father being a sound engineer, which influenced his early exposure to music. As a child, Peck engaged in voice-over work for cartoons and other media. He pursued ballet for 12 years and participated in musical theatre, eventually earning a foundation degree in acting from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Peck is known for his signature fringed mask, which he wears to maintain a level of anonymity and to allow for authentic self-expression. He has stated that the mask enables him to be more vulnerable and genuine in his performances.
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Quick Bio
Here’s a complete Orville Peck’s biography:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Daniel Pitout (known professionally as Orville Peck) |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1988 |
| Place of Birth | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Nationality | South African-Canadian |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Musician |
| Genres | Country, Alternative Country, Indie Rock |
| Education | London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) – Acting Foundation Degree |
| Notable Bands | Former drummer of the punk band Nü Sensae |
| Debut Album | Pony (2019) |
| Other Albums | – Show Pony (EP, 2020) |
| – Bronco (2022) | |
| – Stampede (2024) | |
| Famous Singles | – “Dead of Night” |
| – “Summertime” | |
| – “C’mon Baby, Cry” | |
| – “Death Valley High” (2024, collaboration with Beck) | |
| Signature Style | Wears a fringed mask to maintain anonymity and focus on his art |
| Influences | Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, Roy Orbison, Willie Nelson |
| Sexual Orientation | Openly gay; advocate for LGBTQ+ representation in country music |
| Notable Performances | Coachella, Stagecoach, and numerous global music festivals |
| Artistic Persona | Enigmatic, blending old-school country with modern, alternative influences |
| Recent Work | – Released Stampede in 2024 |
| – Starred in a music video with Sharon Stone for “Death Valley High” | |
| – Photoshoot in Paper Magazine (2024) | |
| Awards and Recognition | Nominated for Juno Awards and Polaris Music Prize |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be $2 million (as of 2024) |
| Languages Spoken | English, Afrikaans |
What is Orville Peck’s height?
While Orville Peck’s masked persona adds an element of mystery, his height is a more readily apparent detail. He stands at 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm), making him a physically imposing figure even without the mask.
Orville Peck Music Career
Before adopting his Orville Peck persona, he was a member of the punk band Nü Sensae in Vancouver’s underground scene.
In 2019, Peck self-produced his debut album, Pony, released through a collaboration with Sub Pop. He noted that he “wrote, produced, and played every instrument he could” on the album while working in a coffee shop and living with his parents. The album received critical acclaim and was named to the initial longlist for the 2019 Polaris Music Prize. It also earned a Juno Award nomination for Alternative Album of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2020.
In 2020, he released the EP Show Pony, which included a duet with Shania Twain titled “Legends Never Die.” The EP’s release was delayed in recognition of the Black Lives Matter movement and the George Floyd protests.
Peck’s second studio album, Bronco, was released in 2022, showcasing his evolution as an artist. Following a self-imposed hiatus in 2023, he released his third studio album, Stampede, in 2024. This album featured collaborations with artists like Willie Nelson, Noah Cyrus, and Kylie Minogue.
Orville Peck Net Worth
Orville Peck has an estimated net worth ranging between $2 million and $5 million.
Income Sources:
- Music Sales and Streaming: Peck’s albums, including Pony (2019), Show Pony (2020), and Bronco (2022), contribute significantly to his earnings through both physical and digital sales.
- Live Performances: His captivating stage presence has led to numerous tours and festival appearances, further enhancing his income.
- Merchandising: The distinctive aesthetic associated with his brand has resulted in a successful line of merchandise, adding to his financial portfolio.
Why does Orville Peck wear a mask?
Peck’s decision to wear a mask is deeply personal and artistic. He has expressed that the mask allows him to be more authentic and vulnerable in his performances, eliminating pretense and enabling a deeper connection with his audience. In an interview, he mentioned that the mask helps him “eliminate pretense” and be his “sincere truth.”
Is Orville Peck gay?
As an openly gay artist, Peck challenges traditional norms within the country music genre and advocates for LGBTQ+ representation and inclusivity. He has been candid about his experiences and the importance of authenticity in his art.
Is Orville Peck in a relationship?
Yes, Orville Peck is in a relationship with William “Billy” Mikelson. He publicly acknowledged their relationship during an emotional speech at the GLAAD Media Awards, expressing gratitude for his partner’s support.
How did Orville Peck lose his eye?
There is no public information or credible reports indicating that Orville Peck has lost an eye. It’s possible that this misconception arises from his song titled “The Curse of the Blackened Eye,” where the “blackened eye” serves as a metaphor for emotional pain and scars, both visible and concealed.
In 2024, Peck released the single “Death Valley High,” a collaboration with Beck, accompanied by a music video featuring Sharon Stone. He also posed for a provocative photoshoot in Paper Magazine, further showcasing his unique artistic expression.
