Jerry Moss, co-founder of A&M Records along with Herb Alpert, passed away at his home in Los Angeles at the age of 88. A&M Records was a powerhouse in the music industry during the 1960s to the ’80s, representing iconic artists such as the Carpenters, the Police, Janet Jackson, Peter Frampton, and the Tijuana Brass. The label gained recognition for its support of artists and fair treatment. Artists like Sting, who signed with A&M in 1978, praised Moss and Alpert for their integrity and artist-friendly approach.
A&M Records began in Alpert’s garage but soon became a significant force in pop music, eventually being sold to PolyGram in 1989 for a reported $500 million. Moss and Alpert continued to manage the label until 1993. They later sold their music publishing catalog, Rondor, to Universal Music in 2000 for an estimated $400 million.
Alpert’s personal experiences with major labels mistreating him influenced the way A&M interacted with artists. The label’s early lack of financial resources compared to corporate competitors compelled them to focus on fair dealings and artist autonomy. This approach was evident in their decision to release Waylon Jennings, a country singer whose career direction clashed with Alpert’s pop preferences, from his contract. This move proved that success could be achieved by fostering artists’ creativity and maintaining amicable relationships.
Jerry Moss was born on May 8, 1935, in the Bronx. He graduated from Brooklyn College in 1957 and entered the music industry as a radio promoter, achieving his first big success with the doo-wop ballad “16 Candles” by the Crests. In 1962, Moss met Alpert, and they founded A&M Records with a $100 investment. Their first major hit, “The Lonely Bull,” launched A&M’s success.
Throughout the 1960s and beyond, A&M’s influence in pop music grew significantly. The label recorded chart-topping hits from artists like the Tijuana Brass, the Carpenters, Cat Stevens, and Carole King. Notably, the release of Peter Frampton’s live album, “Frampton Comes Alive!” in 1976 became a rock phenomenon, selling millions of copies. In the 1980s, A&M signed Janet Jackson, solidifying her status as a major talent in the music industry.
After selling A&M Records, Moss and Alpert briefly ran another label called Almo Sounds. They were honored in 2006 as nonperformers inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Moss’s legacy extends beyond the music industry; he was passionate about racehorses and philanthropy. He and his wife, Tina Moss, donated $25 million to the Music Center in Los Angeles in 2020.
Jerry Moss’s love for making records with Herb Alpert brought him immeasurable happiness. He cherished the journey and impact they made in the music industry. Moss leaves behind his wife, Tina, two sons, two daughters, and five grandchildren.
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