Ahmet Ertegun was a man who left an indelible mark on the world of music. As the co-founder and president of Atlantic Records, he discovered and nurtured some of the biggest names in rock and roll during the 20th century. However, his legacy goes beyond just being a record executive.
In this article, we will delve into the different aspects of Ahmet Ertegun net worth, early beginnings, career highlights, personal life, and many more.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
| Real Name | Ahmet Munir Ertegün |
| Popular Name | Ahmet Ertegun / Father of Rock and Roll |
| Gender | Male |
| Birth Date | July 31, 1923 |
| Died | December 14, 2006 (aged 83) |
| Parents | Munir Ertegun, Hayrunnisa Rustem |
| Siblings | Nesuhi Ertegun, Selma Göksel |
| Birth Place | Istanbul, Turkey |
| Nationality | Turkish-American |
| Ethnicity | Turkish |
| Education | St. John’s College, Oxford |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Wife/Spouse | Ioana (Mica) Maria Banu Grecianu(1961 – 2006) Jan Holm(m.1953 – div. 1957) |
| Children | No |
| Dating | N/A |
| Net Worth | $300 million |
| Source of Wealth | Music Industry |
| Height | 5′ 5″ (1.65 m) |
| Weight | Information not available |
What is Ahmet Ertegun Net Worth and Salary in 2023?
According to reports, Ahmet Ertegun had an estimated net worth of $300 million at the time of his death in 2006. While this is a significant amount, it speaks volumes about his success as a businessman and a music industry visionary.
It’s difficult to determine his exact salary, but given his position as the president of Atlantic Records, it’s safe to say that he earned quite handsomely throughout his career. Also, check Adin Ross net worth
Early Life
Ahmet Ertegun was born on July 31, 1923, in Istanbul, Turkey. He was part of a family that was well-versed in music.
His mother was an accomplished musician, while his brother Nesuhi introduced him to jazz at a young age.
In 1935, his family moved to Washington, D.C., where his father was appointed as the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to the United States.
Career
He co-founded Atlantic Records in New York City in September 1947 with Herb Abramson, financed by family dentist Dr. Vahdi Sabit.
After a series of unsuccessful releases, the label had its first major hit in 1949 with Stick McGhee’s Drinkin’ Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee.
Throughout the 1950s, Atlantic Records expanded, signing artists like Ruth Brown, Big Joe Turner, The Clovers, The Drifters, The Coasters, and Ray Charles.
Ertegun’s influence extended beyond his role as an executive; he also wrote classic blues songs under the pseudonym A. Nugetre, including Chains of Love and Sweet Sixteen. In 1958, he replaced Abramson as Atlantic’s president.
During the 1960s, Atlantic Records, often in partnerships with local labels like Stax Records in Memphis, played a significant role in the growth of soul music.
Ertegun discovered and nurtured many influential musicians, including Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Darin, Cream, Led Zeppelin, Crosby Stills & Nash, and more.
In 1967, Ertegun sold Atlantic to Warner Bros.-Seven Arts for $17 million in stock. Despite the sale, he continued to lead Atlantic Records and remained influential in the music industry.
In 1991, he received an honorary doctorate in music from the Berklee College of Music in Boston.
Ahmet Ertegun, aside from his work with The American Turkish Society, also provided funding for the Turkish studies departments at both Princeton and Georgetown universities.
In 2008, the American Turkish Society announced the establishment of the Ahmet Ertegun Memorial Scholarship.
This scholarship is designated for music students of Turkish descent and provides them with the opportunity to study at the Juilliard School.
Quotes
He was known for his wit and wisdom. Here are some of his famous quotes:
- There are two kinds of music: good music and bad music.
- I’ve never had an ego trip about being a star.
- The only thing that can change the world is great music.
Personal Life
He was married twice in his lifetime, first to Jan Holm from 1953 to 1957 and then to Ioana (Mica) Maria Banu Grecianu from 1961 until his death in 2006. He didn’t have any children but was known to be a mentor and father figure to many of his artists.
Nominations and Awards
His work in discovering and nurturing some of the most influential musicians of the last half century earned him a nomination for the Best Historical Album for Pure Genius: The Complete Atlantic Recordings (1952-1959). In addition to this, he received the Grammy Award for Best Album Notes.
His accolades also extended beyond the realm of music. He was honored with an honorary doctorate in music from the Berklee College of Music in Boston in 1991.
Furthermore, in 1993, he was awarded the Grammy Trustees Award, a testament to his lifetime achievements in the music industry.
His influence and impact were further acknowledged when he was inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2017. Also, check Adam Reed net worth.
FAQs about Ahmet Ertegun
How did Ahmet Ertegun make his money?
He made his money as the president and co-founder of Atlantic Records.
Did Ahmet Ertegun have any children?
No, he did not have any children.
What are some famous quotes by Ahmet Ertegun?
Some famous quotes by Ahmet Ertegun include: There are two kinds of music: good music and bad music, and The only thing that can change the world is great music.
See also:
- Jon Landau Net Worth
- Della Beatrice Howard Robinson Net Worth
- Ray Charles Robinson Jr Net Worth
- Ruth Brown Net Worth
Conclusion
In conclusion, his enduring legacy in the music world remains undeniable. As the co-founder and president of Atlantic Records, his influence spanned far beyond his role as a record executive.
Through his keen insight and dedication, he played a pivotal role in discovering and nurturing some of the most iconic names in rock and roll during the 20th century.
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