Co-Founder of A&M Records Passes Away


Jerry Moss, a music industry pioneer who co-founded A&M Records with Herb Alpert, has passed away at the age of 88. Moss, along with Alpert, propelled A&M Records from a small Los Angeles garage to become one of the most successful independent labels in the industry. With hits from artists like Alpert, the Police, the Carpenters, and many others, Moss made a significant impact on the music world. His family released a statement expressing their sorrow over his passing and described him as a unique individual who approached each moment with a twinkle in his eyes, ready for the next adventure. Moss is survived by his second wife, Tina Morse, and three children.

For over 25 years, Alpert and Moss led A&M Records to release numerous blockbuster albums and singles, including “Whipped Cream & Other Delights” by Albert, “Tapestry” by Carole King, and “Frampton Comes Alive!” by Peter Frampton. The label was home to a diverse range of artists like the Carpenters, Cat Stevens, Janet Jackson, Soundgarden, Joe Cocker, Suzanne Vega, the Go-Gos, and Sheryl Crow. Some of the label’s most notable singles include Alpert’s “A Taste of Honey,” the Captain and Tennille’s “Love Will Keep Us Together,” Frampton’s “Show Me the Way,” and “Every Breath You Take” by the Police.

In 2007, Moss reflected on his career and the remarkable records that came through A&M Records, stating that sometimes he and Alpert couldn’t believe that such incredible music was being released on their label. Born in New York City and an English major at Brooklyn College, Moss always aspired to work in show business. After a brief stint in the Army, he began working as a promoter for Coed Records. Eventually, he moved to Los Angeles, where he met Alpert and formed a lasting friendship. Together, they started Carnival Records with just a $100 investment each. When they discovered another company with the same name, they decided to use their initials and renamed their business A&M Records. Initially focusing on “easy listening” acts like Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, Sergio Mendes, and the Sandpipers, they expanded their roster to include rock performers after attending the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967. Moss played a pivotal role in bringing rock acts like Joe Cocker, Procol Harum, and Free to the label.

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