Jerry Moss, the man behind the “M” in A&M Records, passed away at the age of 88 at his home in Bel Air. He played a pivotal role in transforming the label from a small jazz-oriented operation into a rock powerhouse.
In an online obituary, his family shared, “Jerry was a unique individual who will be greatly missed. We cherished our conversations with him about various topics, and his eyes always sparkled with anticipation for the next adventure.”
Described as both handsome and personable, Jerry Moss had a wit and charm that made him relatable to everyone he encountered.
His family expressed, “He had a way with words, speaking eloquently and poetically. He didn’t need to say much to captivate a room, but we all eagerly listened to his thoughts, memories, and ideas. We admired him for his achievements but loved him for his kindness. Jerry was a strong, genuine, intelligent, resilient, and hilariously funny man. His sense of humor would always surprise people, especially when they took themselves too seriously or became overly dramatic.”
According to the family, Jerry Moss passed away due to complications from old age.
A native of New York, Moss joined forces with his friend Herb Alpert to establish A&M Records. Initially, the label gained popularity in the 1960s thanks to Alpert and his Tijuana Brass band. However, as rock ‘n’ roll rose to prominence, Moss actively expanded the label’s reach, signing early acts like Joe Cocker and Gene Clark. Later, A&M Records added renowned names such as Peter Frampton, Janet Jackson, Quincy Jones, The Police, Supertramp, the Go-Go’s, and Bryan Adams to their roster.
A&M Records achieved tremendous success through hit albums like “Frampton Comes Alive” by Peter Frampton, “Breakfast in America” by Supertramp, and “Tapestry” by Carole King. The label operated from Charlie Chaplin’s original studio lot.
In the 1980s, Moss and Alpert sold the label to Polygram for a reported $500 million. Although they continued to work for the label, they eventually left due to creative differences with management in the early 1990s. Subsequently, they operated a smaller label called Almo Sounds.
In the early 2000s, Jerry Moss shifted his focus to thoroughbred horses, and one of their horses, Giacomo, attained victory at the Kentucky Derby in 2005.
Aside from his music endeavors, Moss was also a well-known philanthropist. He established the Moss Scholars program at UCLA for art, architecture, and music students. Additionally, he endowed the Moss Foundation Chair in Gastrointestinal and Personalized Surgery at the university. Moss contributed to various healthcare causes and supported organizations like the Geffen Playhouse, the Hammer Museum, KCRW, and the ACLU.
Furthermore, he made significant donations to The Music Center in downtown Los Angeles, resulting in the establishment of the Jerry Moss Plaza.
President and CEO of The Music Center, Rachel S. Moore, stated, “Jerry was an incredible source of inspiration for artists and played a crucial role in helping them explore and refine their craft. His exceptional talent and partnership with Herb Alpert led to the creation of one of the most successful record labels in the industry.”
Expressing gratitude for Tina and Jerry Moss’s longstanding support, The Music Center designated their expansive plaza as Jerry Moss Plaza in 2020. Jerry was dedicated to giving back to the community by supporting artistic experiences that left a lasting impact on the residents of Los Angeles. His artistic influence, paired with his business acumen and the opportunities he provided for numerous talented artists, forever changed the music landscape. That was his gift to us all.”
Aside from his contributions to the music industry, Jerry Moss was an avid art collector, possessing works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Jawlensky, Basquiat, Warhol, and Magritte.
Jerry Moss is survived by his wife Tina and their children Ron, Jennifer, Harrison, and Daniela. He also leaves behind five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled to take place this weekend in Westwood.
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