Ahmet Ertegun

Ahmet Ertegun
Ertegun c. 1960
Ertegun c. 1960
Background information
Also known asA. Nugetre
Born(1923-07-31)July 31, 1923
Istanbul, Turkey
OriginWashington, D.C., U.S.
DiedDecember 14, 2006(2006-12-14) (aged 83)
New York City, U.S.
GenresBlues, rhythm and blues, rock and roll
Occupation(s)Record label executive, record producer, songwriter, composer, philanthropist
Years active1944–2006
LabelsAtlantic

Ahmet Ertegun (/ˈɑːmɛt ˈɛərtəɡən/ AH-met AIR-tə-gən; Turkish: Ahmet Zahrettin Sebuhi Ertegün, pronounced [ahˈmet eɾteˈɟyn]; July 31, 1923 – December 14, 2006) was a Turkish-American businessman, songwriter, record executive and philanthropist.

Ertegun was the co-founder and president of Atlantic Records. He discovered and championed many leading rhythm and blues and rock musicians. Ertegun also wrote classic blues and pop songs. He served as the chairman of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and museum, located in Cleveland, Ohio. Ertegun has been described as "one of the most significant figures in the modern recording industry."[1] In 2017 he was inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in recognition of his work in the music business.

Ertegun helped foster ties between the U.S. and Turkey, his birthplace. He served as the chairman of the American Turkish Society for over 20 years until his death.[2] He also co-founded the New York Cosmos soccer team of the original North American Soccer League.

  1. ^ "Ahmet Ertegun". Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Retrieved October 16, 2018.
  2. ^ "The American Turkish Society". The American Turkish Society. Retrieved October 16, 2018.