Last Updated on August 29, 2023
According to property records kept by the local government, the roughly 90-acre plot of land in Prince Edward County, Virginia, owned by singer and songwriter Oliver Anthony, also known as Rich Men North of Richmond, is valued at a little over $1,000 per acre. Christopher A. Lunsford, the legal name for Oliver Anthony, purchased the land in May of 2019 at an average cost of $1,300 per acre. As of a 2021 assessment, the property is valued at $119,800.
The land owned by Oliver Anthony is designated for agricultural use, but the property records do not indicate any specific land use, and it is currently listed as “vacant.” This means that no permanent structure has been built on the land at the time of the most recent assessment.
This lack of a permanent structure aligns with Oliver Anthony’s own statements about his background. He has spoken about withdrawing from the hectic pace of modern life and leaving his previous job. He even sold his former home to purchase cheap land and a cheap camper with his girlfriend, aiming to live an off-the-grid lifestyle.
Oliver Anthony’s personal story has gained attention recently due to the massive success of his song, “Rich Men North of Richmond,” which has gone viral online. The song has garnered millions of views in just a few days and has attracted a devoted fan base. Many have dubbed the song an anthem for working-class Americans who feel ignored by the government elites in Washington, D.C.
However, there have been attempts by some to co-opt the song’s message for their own purposes. Fox News, for example, has tried to frame it as an anthem for conservative politics, aligning it with Koch Brothers-style conservatism. They even used the song in a GOP presidential debate question posed to Ron DeSantis. In response, Oliver Anthony has firmly pushed back, stating that he wrote the song to represent all people, regardless of their partisan affiliation, who share the struggles depicted in the lyrics. He emphasizes that the song is meant to unite, rather than divide.
The success of “Rich Men North of Richmond” has propelled Oliver Anthony into the spotlight, shining a light on his unconventional lifestyle and his deep connection with ordinary Americans. His ownership of a large plot of land showcases his commitment to living independently and close to nature. The property’s relatively low value underscores his decision to prioritize a simpler way of life over material possessions.
It remains to be seen how Oliver Anthony’s music and message will continue to resonate with audiences in the future. But for now, his song, born out of his own genuine experiences, has struck a chord with millions and put him on the map as a voice for the working class.
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