Jerry Wexler

Influential music producer, journalist and Atlantic Records executive Jerry Wexler passed away at the age of 91 on August 15, 2008.Reuters: Rhythm and Blues pioneer Jerry Wexler dies at 91 (August 15, 2008)

Wexler began his career in the music industry as a writer and editor for Billboard magazine in the late 1940s. He joined Atlantic Records as a co-owner in 1953 and was an influential force at the company for over 20 years.Bloomberg: Jerry Wexler...Dies at 91 (August 15, 2008) During his career, Wexler worked with several highly successful musicians, including Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Ray Charles, Dusty Springfield, Dire Straits and George Michael.The Associated Press: Jerry Wexler...dies at 91 (August 15, 2008)

"Always answer the phone. You never know if it's a hit calling."—Jerry WexlerRolling Stone: Jerry Wexler: The Man Who Invented Rhythm & Blues (August 15, 2008)

"He loved black music, R&B music and rhythm and blues was his foundation. He had a feeling for it, he had the knack to keep it going in his heart and recognize the talent that he felt was real. Jerry Wexler didn't change the sound of America, he put the sound to the public. He open the doors and windows to the radio stations ... and made everybody listen."—Solomon BurkeThe Associated Press: Jerry Wexler...dies at 91 (August 15, 2008)