Singer-songwriter Chelcee Grimes was signed by Liverpool FC at the age of eight but had a significant career shift at 16. She landed a music contract at 18, only to be dropped by the label a year later. In 2014, she co-wrote ‘Million Miles’ for Kylie Minogue. Over the years, she has penned songs for notable artists including Dua Lipa, Little Mix, Olly Murs, and The Saturdays. Besides her music career, Grimes contributed to the BBC’s coverage of the 2019 Women’s World Cup, and in 2022, she participated in ITV’s sports competition The Games and BBC’s Freeze the Fear with Wim Hof. Now at 32, she continues to reside in Liverpool with her dog, Thiago.

Since the onset of the lockdown, Chelcee has distanced herself from cash transactions. She shares, “I don’t like handling cash because of the germs. That feeling just stuck with me.” However, she still carries a wallet containing a few cards, including her Costco card and a picture of her chihuahua, named after Liverpool player Thiago, who played at Anfield when she got him.

Do you use credit cards?

Grimes has never owned a credit card. Despite her mother suggesting she should get one because “everyone else has one,” she remains firm in her belief that she doesn’t need it. Due to her ADHD, she worries about remembering to manage monthly payments. Reflecting on a troubling incident with her debit card, she recalls discovering unexpected transactions totaling thousands of pounds for extravagant items. Although she was able to recover the funds, the experience heightened her awareness of her finances.

Are you a spender or a saver?

Grimes identifies more as a spender but ensures her expenditures are wise investments rather than frivolous purchases. She mentions, “I don’t splurge on designer labels, but I invest heavily in property and have contributed significantly to my pension.” She’s strategic about planning her finances, hoping to enjoy a comfortable life as she ages.

Reflecting on her younger self, Grimes admits that after landing her first deal with RCA Records, she went from having around £250 to £250,000 by the age of 19 or 20, but spent it all within three years. She learned valuable lessons from her past splurges, and now she’s supported by a reliable financial team.

What was your earnings last year?

Grimes reports that last year was her most successful to date, thanks to selling a large part of her music catalog. She receives royalties and occasionally cash offers from companies aiming to acquire her music rights. With recognizable figures involved in these deals, she has now built her dream home, leading to a sense of financial security at just 32.

Grimes’ motivation to pursue music stemmed from the lack of financial support in women’s football. After realizing she wouldn’t make a living in football, she pivoted to music. Grimes’ songwriting accomplishments include collaborations with distinguished musicians, and the largest royalty cheque she’s received so far amounts to several hundred thousand pounds. Besides songwriting, she plays semi-professional football and aims to invest in a tier-three women’s team in the future.

Have you ever faced financial difficulties?

After leaving her first record deal and while waiting for royalties to flow in, Grimes faced a challenging situation. She received a £5,000 tax bill while unable to afford her high rent in Canary Wharf. Embarrassed, she sought help from family. Fortunately, shortly after seeking assistance, an opportunity to sell a song arose, allowing her to repay her uncle and set her on a stable path.

Do you own property?

Chelcee purchased her first property during the 2020 lockdown and later sold it to invest in an apartment near Everton’s new stadium. Recently, she moved into a new home in Aigburth, featuring five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and a small football pitch, with plans for more upgrades in the future.

Are you financially better off than your parents?

Yes, Grimes asserts, acknowledging the hard work her mother put in while raising her after her father’s passing. Currently, Grimes employs her mother as her personal assistant and ensures she’s compensated well. While she has offered to buy her mother a house, her mother prefers to stay in their family home.

Do you invest in stocks?

Grimes views her pension as an investment while avoiding crypto for now. Recently, she has taken an interest in Pokémon cards, boasting a collection worth approximately £25,000, which continues to appreciate in value.

Property versus pension for retirement?

Chelcee recently reviewed her pension’s growth, reassured that she would be secure financially for the future.

What’s been your best investment?

Grimes considers her dog, worth £2,200, her best investment for the joy and clarity it provides amidst her career pressures.

What about your worst?

Her investment in NFTs stands out as less fruitful, but she feels fortunate to have not lost significantly compared to others.

What’s the most extravagant purchase you’ve made?

Grimes splurged £110,000 on a Tiffany-green Porsche GTS, later selling it for a slight profit after navigating expensive insurance costs as a new driver.

What would you consider your financial weakness?

She admits to a fondness for collecting Pokémon cards.

What’s your current financial priority?

Chelcee aims to continue songwriting, growing her wealth, and acquiring more properties. Her goal is to reach a net worth of £10 million by age 40, with £8 million being an acceptable alternative.

If you won the lottery, what would you do?

She feels already lucky but would ensure her family is taken care of and plans to establish a shelter for dogs.

Do you support any charities?

Grimes contributes to charities supporting young female footballers, LGBTQ+ communities, and initiatives aiding single-parent families.

What’s the most important financial lesson you’ve learned?

She emphasizes that money is cyclical and stresses the value of pursuing passions, which can lead to financial rewards.