A legendary music producer and journalist who helped shape the sound of soul and R&B music, working with iconic artists like Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles.
Jerry Wexler, a music journalist turned producer, left an indelible mark on American popular music from the 1950s to the 1980s. He is renowned for coining the term "rhythm and blues" and playing a pivotal role in shaping the careers of legendary artists such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and Led Zeppelin.
Born on January 10, 1917, in the Bronx, New York City, Wexler grew up in the Washington Heights neighborhood of Upper Manhattan. He was the son of a German Jewish father and a Russian Jewish mother. Despite graduating from George Washington High School at an incredible 15 years old, Wexler dropped out of the City College of New York after two semesters. He later enrolled at Kansas State University, where he studied intermittently before graduating with a B.A. in journalism in 1946.
Wexler's journey in the music industry began as an editor, reporter, and writer for Billboard Magazine. In 1949, he suggested changing the name of the "Race Records" chart to "Rhythm & Blues Records." This pivotal moment marked the birth of a new genre, which Wexler described as a "label more appropriate to more enlightened times."
In 1953, Wexler became a partner in Atlantic Records, where he worked alongside Ahmet and Nesuhi Ertegun to build the label into a major force in the recording industry. This partnership led to the creation of some of the most iconic recordings in music history, including those with Ray Charles, the Drifters, and Ruth Brown.
In the 1960s, Wexler continued to shape the music landscape, producing hits with Wilson Pickett and Aretha Franklin. His innovative approach and keen ear for talent earned him a reputation as one of the most influential producers of his time.
Jerry Wexler's contributions to music were recognized with numerous awards and accolades. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2017. Wexler's legacy extends beyond his own accomplishments, as he played a significant role in shaping the careers of some of the most iconic artists in music history.
Jerry Wexler's remarkable life and career serve as a testament to his innovative spirit, boundless creativity, and dedication to the world of music. His influence continues to resonate through the generations, inspiring new artists and fans alike.
"I came up with a handle I thought suited the music well – rhythm and blues. It was a label more appropriate to more enlightened times."
"Music is the doctor of my soul, and soul is the doctor of my music."
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