In a somber announcement that echoes through the world of music, Jerry Moss, the visionary co-founder of A&M Records, has departed this world at the age of 88. As we bid farewell to this iconic figure, we reflect on his remarkable journey that not only shaped the music industry but also left an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of our time.
The news of Jerry Moss’s passing was conveyed by his family through a statement to the Associated Press. In their poignant words, “They truly don’t make them like him anymore, and we will miss conversations with him about everything under the sun.” This sentiment encapsulates the profound impact Moss had on those fortunate enough to cross his path, capturing the essence of a man whose zest for life was matched only by his dedication to the world of music.
A true pioneer, Jerry Moss co-founded A&M Records alongside the celebrated trumpeter and bandleader Herb Alpert. Their collaboration birthed a label that would go on to define an era, propelling the careers of legendary artists into the stratosphere. The year was 1962 when Moss and Alpert set forth on this remarkable journey. While Moss embodied the “M” in A&M Records, his keen business acumen and unwavering commitment to the label’s artistic vision were instrumental in shaping its destiny.
Under their stewardship, A&M Records transformed into a cornerstone of the music industry. It was here that the likes of The Police, Cat Stevens, The Carpenters, and more found their voices and soared to international fame. Jerry Moss’s acumen extended beyond business; he possessed an innate ability to foresee shifts in musical tastes. This foresight led to the label’s evolution, embracing modern R&B and even welcoming the grunge movement, proving his remarkable adaptability and far-reaching musical insight.
The duo’s legacy at A&M Records took a poignant turn in 1989 when Moss and Alpert made the decision to sell the label to Polygram for an astounding $500 million. Despite the sale, their influence persisted as they continued to lend their expertise to the label. Challenges emerged in the post-acquisition era, eventually leading to their departure in 1993 due to disagreements with Polygram’s management. However, this exit merely marked a new chapter in their musical odyssey.
Fuelled by their unyielding passion for music, Jerry Moss and Herb Alpert embarked on a fresh venture in 1994, christened Almo Sounds. Through this new label, they continued to shape the music landscape, nurturing talents like Garbage, Ozomatli, and Gillian Welch. Their enduring impact culminated in their induction into the revered Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2006, a testament to their profound contributions to the realm of melody.
Jerry Moss’s legacy extends beyond records and artists. He stands as a beacon of inspiration, a trailblazer who transcended the confines of his industry to transform an entire era of music. His curiosity and adventurous spirit resonated not only in his professional endeavors but also in his personal life. He leaves behind his second wife, Tina Morse, and three children, a testament to the warmth and love that characterized his familial bonds.
In the annals of music history, Jerry Moss’s name will forever be etched, a symbol of innovation, courage, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His partnership with Herb Alpert yielded a harmonious symphony that continues to resonate across generations. As we bid adieu to this visionary, let us remember Jerry Moss as a true maestro whose life’s work elevated the world’s collective heartbeat.
