Phil Spector

Phil Spector is one of the most successful and influential music producers of all time. Best known for his signature "Wall of Sound" style, he produced such artists as The Ronettes (featuring his wife-to-be, Ronnie Spector), The Crystals, and John Lennon. He has recently appeared in the news after being charged for the murder of actress Lana Clarkson, who was found dead from bullet wound to the head, at Spector's mansion on February 3, 2003. The case has been declared a mistrial.

Fast Facts

1. Name: Harvey Philip Spector
2. Born: December 26, 1939
3. Nickname: Tycoon of Teen
4. Origin: The Bronx, New York City
5. Spector claims to be bipolar

Musical Legacy

Spector's "Wall of Sound" recording techniques produced some of the most influential music of the 1960s and 1970s, inspiring The Beatles, The Beach Boys and many other acts to expand the sound of pop music beyond the confines of a small musical combo.

Key Tracks

Some of Spector's well known productions include "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'," (The Righteous Brothers), "The Long and Winding Road" (The Beatles), "My Sweet Lord" (12/26/70, #1) (George Harrison), "Imagine" (11/13/71, #3) (John Lennon), "River Deep, Mountain High" (Ike and Tina Turner) and "Do You Remember Rock 'n' Roll Radio?" (The Ramones).

Erratic Behavior

Prior to the death of Lana Clarkson, Spector was known, according to anecdotes, for erratic behavior. He reportedly threatened members of both The Rolling Stones and The Ramones with guns. His ex-wife, Ronettes singer Ronnie Spector, has alleged that Spector terrorized her with psychological abuse and death threats.

Lana Clarkson Murder

On February 3, 2003, the actress Lana Clarkson was found shot dead in Spector's Alhambra, CA, mansion. Spector was arrested and charged with murder, but the case against him ended in a deadlocked jury and a mistrial, on September 20, 2007. A retrial has been scheduled for late 2008.

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