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On Sunday (Aug. 14), the music industry lost a titan when Clarence Avant — dubbed the “Godfather of Black Music” — died at his home in Los Angeles at age 92.
“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come,” Avant’s family said in a statement. “The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.”
That legacy looms large: In the wake of Avant’s passing, artists, executives and political leaders have been reacting to the loss of the legendary executive, who helped launch the careers of important talents such as Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson, Bill Withers, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds. Avant also mentored younger executives who became industry heavyweights themselves — among them, Antonio “L.A.” Reid and Sony/ATV chairman/CEO Jon Platt.
Avant’s contributions to the industry were so profound that he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021 and was honored by the Recording Academy with the Grammy Salute to Industry Icons award in 2019, among numerous other honors. But his contributions to the culture extended beyond music into various other realms, including politics (he famously slept in the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House after he helped Bill Clinton get elected) and sports, working with athletes such as Jim Brown (whom he helped transition into a Hollywood acting career), Jackie Robinson and Muhammad Ali.
Unsurprisingly, Avant’s death prompted a flood of tributes from luminaries across multiple spheres. Below you can find them all.
Bill and Hillary Clinton: “Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the passing of our friend Clarence Avant, whose legendary career brought artists and their music to millions of people. He also used his success to open doors of opportunity to new generations of entrepreneurs and promoters. He was skillful, savvy, warm, and wise. It was impossible to spend time with him and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example. We just loved him.
“We give thanks for his long, good life and our decades of friendship, and we’re grateful that his legacy will endure in the music he helped bring into the world, and in all those who were touched by his compassion, mentorship, and generosity. Our hearts are with Nicole, Alex and everyone else who loved and will miss him.”
It was impossible to spend time with Clarence Avant and not come away feeling more positive and wanting to follow his example. Hillary and I just loved him. Our full statement on his passing: pic.twitter.com/qvNx5ncGtk— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) August 14, 2023
Sir Lucian Grainge, chairman/CEO of Universal Music Group: “Clarence Avant’s extraordinary musical legacy has been felt for decades and will be felt for decades to come. He will be remembered as both a brilliant catalyst and protector of culture. His understated yet powerful influence transcended music, spanning the worlds of entertainment, sports and politics. I am profoundly grateful for his friendship and mentorship. We have lost an incomparable visionary whose brilliance, humor, irreverence, and love made the world a better place.
On behalf of everyone at UMG, we offer our deepest condolences to Nicole, Ted and Alex and to their entire family.”
Today we mourn the loss of legendary music executive Clarence Avant.🖤 On behalf of everyone at UMG, we offer our deepest condolences to Nicole, Ted and Alex and to the entire Avant family. pic.twitter.com/74X2SR1WWq— Universal Music Group (@UMG) August 14, 2023
Jon Platt, chairman/CEO of Sony Music Publishing: “It is difficult to process the loss of Clarence Avant. Clarence was an ally and mentor to me and many others who followed the trail he blazed. As one of the leading architects of the Black entertainment business, he expanded opportunities for executives of color and supported us along our journey. Clarence Avant positively impacted my life the moment he walked into it, filling a void that I did not know existed. Clarence is the closest person to a father that I ever had. He often would say, “Life is about numbers…you’re born with a number, and you leave earth with a number…”. And he was right, but what Clarence also showed me is life is about the number of lives you impact while you are here. I am forever grateful for Clarence’s tough love and encouragement. I am also thankful to Mrs. Avant, Nicole, Alex, and Ted for sharing Clarence with all of us.”
Sean “Diddy” Combs: “Clarence Avant was an irreplaceable force in the music industry. He was a mentor and a personal friend whose influence is unparalleled. His visionary approach and unwavering dedication broke barriers for black artists, propelling them to new heights. As we honor this trailblazer, we are reminded of his enduring legacy that continues to live on, inspiring a generation of artists and shaping the industry.”
Pharrell Williams: “Clarence Avant was a visionary and a transcendent spirit. He is the ultimate example of what change looks like, what architecting change looks like, and what the success of change looks like. He stared adversity in the face in climates and conditions that weren’t welcoming to people that looked like him. But through his talent and relentless spirit in the pursuit to be the best of the best, he garnered the support and friendship of people who otherwise wouldn’t look in our direction. He showed them what we can be, what we can do, and how much more we can all achieve if you give us opportunity. He has been behind so many musical greats, people in and across the entertainment industry, and I’m so honored to have known him. He was a Godfather, a Godfather to the Black dream and a Godfather to the American dream. There will never be another like him.
“It’s my hope and wish that others will see what he’s done and try to go even further, because that’s what he wanted and that’s why he did what he did. He wanted to inspire. While running an extraordinary race in his lifetime, he passed the baton to us. The question now is how we’re going to honor him and what we will we do with the baton. I give honor to GOD, my savior, and I give honor to his family, friends, and the countless people who have been impacted by his presence and time on this planet. Continued blessings and favor to Nicole, Alex, and Ted. Last but not least, his spirit is amongst the stars up in the heavens with The Master. Some people use the phrase “passed away.” I don’t because maybe the time has passed, but I don’t know that you’re away. Clarence went back up from whence he came…heaven. Blessings.”
Evan Lamberg, president of North America at Universal Music Publishing Group: “Clarence Avant was an incredibly positive life game changer for anyone that was lucky enough to be in his orbit. Besides being a great music man and entertainment executive, he was one of the greatest civil and human rights leaders of our time. The world is a much better place, for all of us, because of Clarence Avant. My deepest condolences to his beautiful family. May he rest in eternal peace.”
Irving Azoff: “We have lost the godfather. The business would look nothing like this if it weren’t for Clarence. He had the biggest heart of any of us despite him trying to hide it! What a great man.”
L.A. Reid: “In the wake of Clarence Avant’s passing, I find it difficult to put into words the depth of loss I feel. Clarence was not just a music executive and rights leader; he was one of a kind, a true original who possessed a genuine and profound care for others. My heart goes out to his beloved children, Nicole, and Alex, as well as to the memory of his late wife Jacqueline.
“Clarence’s legacy is etched in the indelible marks he left on the music industry and in his tireless efforts for the rights of us all. Yet, what truly sets him apart was his unwavering compassion and his ability to connect with all people on a personal level. He was the embodiment of sincerity, a rarity in a world often marked by pretense. His absence will leave a void that cannot be easily filled.
“As we come to terms with this loss, let us celebrate the impact he made on countless lives and the love he shared. My thoughts and sympathies are with Nicole and Alex, and I stand with them in this difficult time, offering my support and care. Clarence’s presence, his kindness, and his legacy will forever echo in our hearts. I will deeply miss him.”
Valerie Simpson, songwriter (Ashford & Simpson): “‘The Black Godfather’ I knew and I marveled at his deal making but during vacation times with Quincy he’d speak in his own way and say how much he loved Ashford & Simpson music. Clarence would let loose a vocabulary of cuss words – never before heard that would enlighten me and make me laugh – and I will miss that authenticity and life!”
Quincy Jones: “There will never be enough words to express how much Clarence Avant meant to me. He was my dearest friend, my brother, my confidant, my mentor, and my counsel for more than 60 years. Clarence always told me the truth in every aspect of my life, even when he knew I didn’t want to hear it…and in this business we all know what a rarity that is. There will never be another like Clarence Avant, and I will miss his presence every day.”
Clive Davis: “Clarence Avant was truly one of a kind. His passing is a great loss of someone who is irreplaceable. Clarence’s extraordinary contribution to music and the barriers he broke throughout his career are unrivaled. He was the mentor to all Black executives in the music industry for decades, providing invaluable guidance and support while always standing up for equal rights. Clarence was humane and fair and inspired love and respect from all who knew him. I personally loved him and will miss him forever.”
Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff (Gamble & Huff): “Clarence Avant was a great friend of ours. He definitely made his mark in the industry. He will be truly missed. We send our sincere condolences to his family.”
Berry Gordy: “With the passing of Clarence Avant the world has lost an icon, his family has lost their patriarch, and I lost a dear friend. Clarence earned his reputation as the Black Godfather for good reason. People, especially musicians and artists, went to him when they were in trouble and one way or another, he would fix the problem. Clarence was continuously engaged in the things that made a difference. He loved politics and was very involved with many charities.
“Of his numerous professional accomplishments – Clarence was most proud of his family – his beloved wife Jacqueline, his son Alex, his daughter Nicole and her husband Ted Sarandos. My heart goes out to them. Our Black Godfather may be gone – but he will never be forgotten.”
T.I.: “Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself.”
Maaaan, woke up this morning and couldn’t believe this news!! RIP to The Black Godfather Clarence Avant, thank you for all the wisdom you’ve shared and the path you paved for artists like myself🫡👑💔🕊️ pic.twitter.com/DNQ3KlNFFl— T.I. (@Tip) August 14, 2023
Roc Nation: “Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our cultural Godfather. Throughout his life, he burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations. A true pioneer, a mentor and a champion, Clarence Avant is and always will be a giant among us.”
Clarence Avant isn’t just the “Godfather Of Black Music,” he is our cultural Godfather. Throughout his life, he burst through doors and tore down ceilings, changing lives and providing opportunities for generations. A true pioneer, a mentor and a champion, Clarence Avant is and… pic.twitter.com/nZYc311Wh3— Roc Nation (@RocNation) August 14, 2023
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: “In Memoriam: 2021 Inductee Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” was cool, savvy, confident, and fearless — someone who made the seemingly impossible possible. Avant served a variety of roles during his illustrious career, including manager, label owner, concert organizer, event producer, political fundraiser, and mentor. He was the quintessential impresario, with an uncanny ability to connect people, open doors, and provide opportunities for countless musicians, actors, and politicians. Hall of Famer Bill Withers perfectly summed up Avant’s impact: ‘He put people together.’”
(1/3) In Memoriam: 2021 Inductee Clarence Avant, known as “The Black Godfather,” was cool, savvy, confident, and fearless — someone who made the seemingly impossible possible. Avant served a variety of roles during his illustrious career, including manager, label owner, pic.twitter.com/Y7TSobxbZn— Rock Hall (@rockhall) August 14, 2023
Earvin “Magic” Johnson: “Rest in peace to the legendary, game-changing “Black Godfather”, and my great friend Clarence Avant. His accomplishments speak for themselves. As a former music manager, he founded two record labels and purchased the first fully black-owned radio station. He consulted many major studios in the 1970s and advised Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George Bush and Barack Obama. He also served as chairman of the board at Motown Records, promoted Michael Jackson’s BAD tour and is responsible for discovering many of the most incredible music artists we know today.”
Kevin Liles, chairman/CEO of 300 Elektra Entertainment: “RIP Clarence Avant, Godfather of Black Music. You will be missed my friend. Rest in Peace.”
Ben Crump, civil rights attorney: “Clarence Avant — the Godfather of Black music — has died at 92. Known as the great connector in the industries of music, entertainment, and even in politics, he spent decades shaping Black culture and nurturing artists. His legacy will LIVE ON. Rest In Power, Godfather.”
Clarence Avant — the Godfather of Black music — has died at 92. Known as the great connector in the industries of music, entertainment, and even in politics, he spent decades shaping Black culture and nurturing artists. His legacy will LIVE ON. Rest In Power, Godfather 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/BynJDOPxle— Ben Crump (@AttorneyCrump) August 14, 2023
Sherrilyn Ifill, former president/director-counself of NAACP Legal Defense Fund: “‘The Godfather’ has left us. This man was singularly responsible for helping so many Black artists get paid their worth. Also was a wonderful supporter & former board member of @NAACP_LDF. Rest in Peace & Power #ClarenceAvant.”
Reverend Al Sharpton: “#ClarenceAvant was a revolutionary. When people in the entertainment world were delegated to a near master/slave relationship, he broke through that wall of exploitation and made us respected business people. I can’t count the enormous amount of situations that he negotiated.”
#ClarenceAvant was a revolutionary. When people in the entertainment world were delegated to a near master/slave relationship, he broke through that wall of exploitation and made us respected business people. I can’t count the enormous amount of situations that he negotiated pic.twitter.com/SyhKPTN8Xl— Reverend Al Sharpton (@TheRevAl) August 14, 2023
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass: “Mr. Avant gave so much to Los Angeles — producing a sound that Influenced generations while ceaselessly fighting for civil rights and equal treatment under the law.My thoughts are with the Avant family and all who mourn this massive loss.”
Mr. Avant gave so much to Los Angeles — producing a sound that Influenced generations while ceaselessly fighting for civil rights and equal treatment under the law.My thoughts are with the Avant family and all who mourn this massive loss.https://t.co/lk7czFUcdt— Mayor Karen Bass (@MayorOfLA) August 14, 2023
Barry Weiss, CEO of RECORDS: “RIP Clarence Avant. I can’t believe I’m actually writing this. This man was a true legend for real. A national treasure. He was like a second father to me. Complex, brilliant, a tough hard exterior but a beautiful soft thoughtful kind gentleman on the inside. He was always there for me and my father and we were always there for him. Nothing I can say here can come close to describing what an amazing person Clarence was. So I’II leave most of the words to the many others, the legions of industry executives and artists (not to mention the nation’s presidents) that Clarence helped. There’ll never be another like him. My last time hugging him in LA in February is a hug I’ll never forget. We all love you Clarence. Rest easy.”
Following news of the death of music legend Robbie Robertson on Wednesday (Aug. 9) at age 80, tributes from his famous friends and admirers poured in.
The family of The Band co-founder (born Jaime Royal “Robbie” Robertson) released a statement Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter) saying that Robertson had just wrapped work on Martin Scorsese’s yet-released Killers of the Flower Moon movie — their 14th film music collaboration. Scorsese sent a statement to Billboard remembering Robertson as “one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work” and “a giant.” Robertson worked on Scorsese’s Wolf of Wall Street, Gangs of New York, Casino and more after The Band’s legendary 1976 farewell concert was profiled in the director’s 1978 documentary The Last Waltz. Robertson also went on to a successful solo career, starting with his self-titled debut album in 1987.
Read Scorsese’s full statement below, along with tributes from Jason Isbell, fellow Canadian musician Bryan Adams, Stephen Stills (Crosby, Stills & Nash, Buffalo Springfield), Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones), Neil Diamond, Steven Van Zandt (Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band) and many more.
Martin Scorsese: “Robbie Robertson was one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work. I could always go to him as a confidante. A collaborator. An advisor. I tried to be the same for him. Long before we ever met, his music played a central role in my life—me and millions and millions of other people all over this world. The Band’s music, and Robbie’s own later solo music, seemed to come from the deepest place at the heart of this continent, its traditions and tragedies and joys. It goes without saying that he was a giant, that his effect on the art form was profound and lasting. There’s never enough time with anyone you love. And I loved Robbie.”
My heart breaks for the family of @r0bbier0berts0n, and I think it’s safe to say that without his influence the music we love and the music we make would be very different from what it is.— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) August 9, 2023
Bryan Adams via X: “RIP Robbie Robertson. Thanks for the amazing music and the great hangs, especially photographing you in LA not so long ago. We’ll keep Anna Lee company for you…”
The music world lost a great one with the passing of Robbie Robertson. Keep making that Beautiful Noise in the sky, Robbie. I’ll miss you.— Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) August 9, 2023
Stephen Stills via X: “Always kind and generous. Rest in peace, Robbie Robertson.”
Ronnie Wood via X: “Such sad news about Robbie Robertson – he was a lovely man, a great friend and will be dearly missed xx R”
RIP Robbie Robertson. A good friend and a genius. The Band’s music shocked the excess out of the Renaissance and were an essential part of the final back-to-the-roots trend of ‘60s. He was an underrated brilliant guitar player adding greatly to Bob Dylan’s best tour & best album.— 🕉🇺🇦🟦Stevie Van Zandt☮️💙 (@StevieVanZandt) August 9, 2023
Ron Sexsmith via X: “RIP Robbie Robertson. Unspeakably sad news. His songwriting and guitar playing made such a lasting impact on music and in fact changed the direction of music in the late 60’s from psychedelic to a more roots based approach. Huge Loss RS”
(1/4) In Memoriam: The architect and primary songwriter of The Band, 1994 Inductee Robbie Robertson changed the course of popular music in the late 1960s. Though born and raised in Canada, Robertson found poetry in America’s history and mythology, and with a fusion of pic.twitter.com/c0XSCqRz0y— Rock Hall (@rockhall) August 9, 2023
Dr. John via X: “RIP to the great Robbie Robertson, pictured with Dr. John and Bobby Charles in The Band’s immortal film The Last Waltz.”
The loss of Robbie Robertson is heartbreaking. Canada has lost an icon, and music has lost a poet and a scholar.— Kiefer Sutherland (@RealKiefer) August 9, 2023
So sorry to hear about Robbie Robertson’s passing. His music felt timeless when he wrote it and remains timeless. Thoughts and love to his family.— Rob Reiner (@robreiner) August 9, 2023
Michael Des Barres via X: “[An] intellectualized rock ‘n’ roll artist who created THE Band. Robbie Robertson is so important in the history of rock ‘n’ roll music, bringing americana and country music together. He backed Bob Dylan when Bob went electric. He will be remembered. RIP”
Randy Meisner, founding Eagles bassist and the sky-high voice behind the band’s 1976 Billboard Hot 100 top five hit “Take It to the Limit,” has died at age 77, the band announced Thursday (July 27).
Meisner died Wednesday night due to complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to a statement from the band.
“Randy was an integral part of the Eagles and instrumental in the early success of the band,” the band said in the statement. “His vocal range was astonishing, as is evident on his signature ballad, ‘Take It to the Limit.’”
Alongside Glenn Frey, Don Henley and Bernie Leadon, Meisner — born in Scotts Bluff, Nebraska, in 1946 — was a founding member of the Eagles in 1971. Before forming the band, he played with Rick Nelson & The Stone Canyon Band and was the original bass player for country-rock group Poco in the late 1960s.
Meisner was with the Eagles from their self-titled 1972 debut album through 1976’s Hotel California, before quitting the group in 1977. (He was replaced by Timothy B. Schmit, who had also succeeded Meisner in Poco when he had departed the group to form the Eagles.)
The bulk of the Eagles’ vocal duties went to Henley and Frey, but Meisner sang lead on one of the group’s most enduring hits: “Take It to the Limit,” from the 1975 album One of These Nights, peaked at No. 4 on the Hot 100 in 1976 and spent 23 weeks on the chart — the band’s longest-charting hit on the tally. The song is remembered for Meisner’s lofty vocals, especially toward the end of the song when his “aaaahs!” rise to new heights.
Meisner was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the Eagles in 1998.
Tragedy struck Meisner’s personal life in 2016 when his wife, Lana Rae Meisner, was fatally shot in the couple’s Los Angeles home after an “accidental discharge of a firearm,” according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
According to the Eagles’ statement, funeral arrangements are pending for Meisner.
Following the news Wednesday (July 26) of Sinéad O’Connor‘s death at age 56, the Irish singer/songwriter’s friends and admirers hit social media with condolences and tributes. O’Connor is best remembered for the song “Nothing Compares 2 U,” a heart-wrenching, Prince-penned ballad that made her a global superstar and climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard […]
Lisa Marie Presley died from complications from bariatric surgery she had several years ago, authorities said Thursday (July 13). The January 12 death at age 54 of the singer, songwriter and heir of Elvis Presley was ruled as being from natural causes due to effects of a small bowel obstruction. Additional details about what caused […]
Rita Lee, known as the “Queen of Brazilian Rock” for hits like “Ovelha Negra,” “Mania de Você” and “Now Only Missing You,” died on Monday (May 8) at 75, her family confirmed. Lee was notably diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021.
“We communicate the passing of Rita Lee, at her residence in the capital of São Paulo, at the end of the night, surrounded by all the love of her family, as she always wanted,” a statement published on her official Instagram account on Tuesday read, in Portuguese.
Known for her fusion of psicodelia with pop, MPB, bossa and new wave, the legendary Latin Grammy Award-winning artist — who is one of Brazil’s most successful singer-songwriters — got her start with the group Os Mutantes before launching a fruitful solo career. Last November, she was recognized with the Latin Grammy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, but she could not attend to receive it at the ceremony in Las Vegas.
“Rita Lee was a visionary artist and one of the best-selling singer/songwriters in the history of Brazil,” said Manuel Abud, CEO of the Latin Recording Academy, in a Tuesday statement in which he expressed his “most sincere condolences to her family, friends and all lovers of her music.”
Born on December 31, 1947 in São Paulo, Lee began her career with the band Os Mutantes and recorded albums with the band Tutti Frutti, including 1975’s Fruto Proibido. In 1979, she released the LP Rita Lee — which included classics such as “Mania De Você”, “Lança Perfume” and “Caso Sério” — in collaboration with her husband, the multi-instrumentalist Roberto de Carvalho, in an artistic partnership that continued into the 1980s with a long list of radio hits and massive concerts.
In later decades she made acoustic recordings such as Aqui, Ali, em Qualquer Lugar, a collection based on songs by The Beatles. In 2015 she celebrated her career with a CD collection, and the following year she published an autobiography in which she described herself as a “rebel” and “hippie communist.”
A public wake will be held at the São Paulo planetarium on Wednesday, May 10, the family said in the statement, adding that according to Lee’s wishes, her body will be cremated.
Lee is survived by her husband and collaborator Roberto do Carvalho and three children.
Songwriter Keith Reid — the lyricist for Procol Harum, who co-wrote the band’s highest-charting hit, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” — has died at age 76, his family and the band announced Wednesday (March 29).
“We are sad to hear of the death of Keith Reid,” a statement on Procol Harum’s Facebook page read. “An unparalleled lyricist Keith wrote the words to virtually all Procol Harum songs, as well as co-writing the John Farnham hit ‘You’re the Voice.’ His lyrics were one of a kind and helped to shape the music created by the band. His imaginative, surreal and multi-layered words were a joy to Procol fans and their complexity by design was a powerful addition [to] the Procol Harum catalogue. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends.”
The news was initially revealed in an email from Reid’s wife, Pinkey, to friends of the lyricist, according to BestClassicBands.com. The cause of death was cancer.
Reid co-founded the band with his friend Gary Booker, Procol Harum’s lead singer, pianist and composer who died last year, also at age 76.
The band is likely best known for their 1967 debut single “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” which was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s Singles category in 2018. The track sold 10 million copies worldwide, spent six weeks atop the U.K. singles chart, and reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Procol Harum had two other top 40 Hot 100 hits, both co-written by Reid: “Homburg” (No. 34 in 1967) and “Conquistador” (No. 16 in 1972).
Liz Thiels, public Relations professional and former Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum executive, died on Sunday (March 19) following an extended illness. Thiels was 78.
Thiels was born in Alexandria, Louisiana in 1944. She attended the University of Southwest Louisiana in Lafayette, Louisiana, and Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where she majored in advertising design. She later worked as a reporter at a daily newspaper in Louisiana, and served as press secretary for U.S. Congressman Speedy O. Long.
Thiels moved to Nashville in the late 1960s and worked as an account executive for Holder, Kennedy & Co. Public Relations. In the 1970s, Thiels became a partner in Nashville’s Exit/In music venue, helping to showcase artists including John Hiatt, Billy Joel, Steve Martin and Linda Ronstadt. In 1974, Thiels was named director of public relations at Sound Seventy Corporation, where she helped broaden the career of Charlie Daniels, as well as his annual Volunteer Jam concerts. In 1979, Thiels co-founded Network Ink, Nashville’s first PR firm specific to the city’s music industry. She became the company’s sole owner in 1985, representing artists including Clint Black, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Kathy Mattea, Brooks & Dunn and Guy Clark.
In 1981, Thiels also started public relations efforts for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and was heavily involved in the capital campaign that helped finance the museum’s move to its current location in downtown Nashville. In 2001, she closed Network Ink to join the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum as its vice president of public relations; she retired as a key member of its executive team in 2015. Along the way, she helped raise the Country Music Hall of Fame’s profile and spearheaded numerous museum events, including the annual medallion ceremony, which is held to induct new members of the Country Music Hall of Fame.
In November 2008, Thiels was honored during the museum’s annual Louise Scruggs Memorial Forum, which honors music industry leaders who represent the legacy of music business manager Louise Scruggs. The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has honored Thiels’ love of gardening by now including a fresh herb garden onsite, the Liz Thiels Hillbilly Garden, which provides ingredients for the museum’s restaurant.
“Liz Thiels elevated and enhanced the profile of country music in countless ways,” said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, in a statement. “She was the consummate music business publicist — heading her own firm (Nashville’s first to concentrate on music), and also expertly guiding public relations for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, first as a PR consultant and then as a staff member, for a total of more than three decades. A vital figure in the museum’s successful move in 2001 to downtown Nashville, she was instrumental in strategizing for our growth and crucial in positioning the museum as both a key fixture in Nashville’s music community and an institution of national stature. I can’t imagine where the museum would be without her many years of wise counsel.”
Jim Gordon, drummer and co-writer for Eric Clapton‘s 1971 hit “Layla,” has died at age 77.
The drummer died Monday, March 13, from natural causes at the California Medical Facility in Vacavillle, Calif., according to his rep. Gordon has spent decades in prison after being convicted of killing his mother in 1983 and repeated failures to show up for his hearings. He was diagnosed with schizophrenia.
The drummer is best known for his work in Derek and the Dominos, alongside Eric Clapton. The pair co-wrote “Layla,” which appeared as the 13th track from the group’s 1970 album Layla and Other Assorted Love Songs. The song was famously written about Clapton’s forbidden love for Pattie Boyd, the wife of his friend and Beatles member George Harrison.
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“Layla” peaked at No. 51 on the Billboard Hot 100, while Clapton’s MTV Unplugged version of the track went to No. 12 on the Hot 100 in 1992.
In addition to being a member of Derek and the Dominos, Gordon was also a member of the session musician group Wrecking Crew, in which he was able to earn spots playing the drums on tracks like Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache,” Steely Dan’s “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number,” Carly Simon’s “You’re So Vain” and John Lennon’s “Power to the People,” as well as The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds, George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass, Tom Waits’ The Heart of Saturday Night and other tracks by Cher, Alice Cooper, Joan Baez and more.
Ben Kweller, singer/songwriter and former frontman of the band Radish, revealed Tuesday (Feb. 28) that his 16-year-old son Dorian has died. The singer-songwriter shared the news via Instagram but did not offer any additional details regarding what led to his death.
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“There’s no way that I can be typing this but I am…. Our son, Dorian Zev Kweller, was killed last night,” Kweller captioned a photo of his late son smiling into the camera. “He was only 16 and he was a true legend. Kindest, gentle soul, a friend to all. If you knew him, you know. We’ll never get over him as long as we’re here on earth.
“Please keep his spirit alive with your memories and the music he made: @reallyzev. Dorian Zev wrote and recorded songs every day. A true poet from the day he started speaking. Only a few of his recordings were released but he was on a path and excited about his journey. He had so many plans!!! His first gig was in two weeks, at SXSW. My last text with him was about the merch he wanted to make. My baby boy was at the starting line with so much life ahead of him… I have no idea why things like this happen. We’re in complete shock and don’t know what the future holds. Lizzy, Judah, and I have no idea how to deal with this disaster. Thank you for your prayers and support and we apologize if we are slow to respond to messages.”
Dorian’s label, The Noise Company, also issued a statement following the young musician’s death via Facebook. “It’s with great sadness that we have to even say this… in a tragic event last night, we lost Dorian Kweller, who on this page we know as @reallyzev … this young man represented everything positive in life and the future. A kind heart, a smile that illuminated the world and passion for life and music,” the company wrote. “If you have kids, hug them. If you have a partner, squeeze them extra hard. Love yourself and live every moment with the passion that Zev did every day of his life. We are just in shock and send BK, Liz and Judah all our love and support.”
As Zev, Dorian’s music career kicked off in 2022. The 16-year-old released his first single, “Parachute,” in July and followed up the track with “How I Am,” “4th of July,” “SH3,” “Nobody’s Perfect” and his most recent release, “Hickeys,” on Feb. 24.
Dorian is survived by his parents, Ben and Lizzy Kweller, and his younger brother Judah.