Leo Sayer, the British singer-songwriter known for hits such as "You Make Me Feel Like Dancing," "When I Need You," and "The Show Must Go On," reflects on his career and financial journey more than four decades after first rising to fame. Now 78, Sayer remains active in music, preparing for a UK tour and the release of a career-spanning anthology CD later this month.

Sayer, who lives in a small village in New South Wales, Australia, with his wife Donatella, described the challenges he faced growing up with dyspraxia, a developmental disorder that made working with numbers difficult. Despite this, he navigated his early career with a background in graphic design before transitioning into the music industry.

His breakthrough year came in 1974, when his debut album "Silverbird" reached number two on the album charts. That year also saw hits like "The Show Must Go On," which was covered in the United States by Three Dog Night, and the success of "Just a Boy." Sayer recalled that although substantial sums were involved in his early contracts, financial transparency was limited, which later became a source of regret. Early in his career, he granted power of attorney to his manager Adam Faith, a decision he says allowed for a lack of clarity around his earnings.

Sayer noted that one of his best financial decisions was recently trading half of his song catalog to an American music investment company, Vinyl Wave. This move has helped generate ongoing income, particularly from "You Make Me Feel Like Dancing," which, despite being more than 40 years old, continues to earn up to £200,000 annually. These royalties remain subject to taxation.

The artist emphasized his appreciation for living in Australia, citing the greater space and opportunities to develop his music career compared to England. While in the UK, he found himself being cast in nostalgic roles centered on his 1970s success, Australia showed interest in both his new work and his back catalogue, which he described as more appealing.

Sayer's current financial focus is on sustaining his career, with two active bands—one in the UK and another in Australia—and upcoming projects including a new anthology CD titled "Leothology: The Studio Albums 1973-Now," set for release on August 14. He also has a UK tour planned, named "Can't Stop Loving You." Maintaining this level of activity involves significant expense, but Sayer remains committed to engaging with his fans and balancing his professional commitments.

Among his personal expenses, Sayer highlighted his purchase of a fully equipped Volvo XC90, which he described as his most expensive recreational purchase, costing £130,000. Despite the geographical move to Australia, he notes that his surroundings bear a resemblance to the English countryside he once knew.

Throughout his career, Sayer has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, both in the face of personal challenges and shifts in the music industry, continuing to draw on his extensive catalogue and creative output as sources of both artistic and financial sustenance.