Roddy Bottum, the keyboardist for Faith No More and Imperial Teen, shares his journey to becoming a multi-millionaire through an early investment in Apple stock. In an interview on The Hustle: Music & Money podcast, Bottum reveals how he made a substantial profit by investing $12,000 in Apple in the early 1990s, a story also featured in his memoir, The Royal We. Bottum's interest in the stock market began in San Francisco, where he and his friends were known for pushing boundaries and embracing provocation. His first boyfriend, a smart and older individual, introduced him to the stock market, seeing it as a fascinating and provocative activity. Despite having no money, they followed the market, bragging about it to stir up attention. When Bottum earned $12,000 from Faith No More, he was encouraged by his boyfriend to invest in Apple stock, which was at its base value at the time. This decision proved lucrative, as Apple's stock grew significantly over the years. Bottum's memoir, The Royal We, documents his travels from Los Angeles to San Francisco, his formation of Faith No More, and his relentless world tours. It also delves into his personal life, including his experiences with heroin addiction and AIDS, and his journey to becoming a queer icon. The book is a blend of humor, commentary, and reflection, offering a unique perspective on his life and career. Bottum will be discussing The Royal We at various bookstores across the U.S. in January and February 2026.
