Neil Young has written a letter paying tribute to his manager (Lookout Management founder) Elliot Roberts, who died Friday June 21, aged 76.
He was “the greatest manager of all time”, said Young of his friend Roberts, who was his manager for over 50 years.
“Never one to think about himself, he put everyone else first,” added Young. “That’s what he did for me for over fifty years of friendship, love and laughter, managing my life, protecting our art in the business of music. That’s what he did.”
Roberts (born Elliot Rabinowitz) met Young through Joni Mitchell after relocating to Los Angeles with the folk singer after getting her a deal at Reprise Records, according to the LA Times. Roberts went on to manage Mitchell until 1985.
He also managed several other stars at various points over the years including Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and the Eagles.
Roberts formed the Geffen-Roberts Company with David Geffen (who he had met at William Morris Agency), with the pair starting Asylum Records together in 1971, which later merged with Elektra.
“When it came to our business, Elliot guided me through every move. We talked every day. Often I would call him multiple times in a day, arguing, discussing, planning and sharing. He was there for me and protected my music with a fierceness.”
Neil Young
Added Young: “When it came to our business, Elliot guided me through every move. We talked every day. Often I would call him multiple times in a day, arguing, discussing, planning and sharing. He was there for me and protected my music with a fierceness.
“He loved music and managed over the years many greats, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, David Blue, Tracey Chapman, Tegan and Sara, Crosby Stills and Nash, Tom Petty , among others.
“Eliot loved making deals for all of us, saving our publishing rights, ensuring we were treated well, helping book our concerts, as well as booking the Bridge Concert with Marsha Vlassic from the very beginning for over 30 years.
“He made it happen. This world is forever changed for me, for all who knew him and loved him. His memory shines with love.”Music Business Worldwide
