Producer/Executive Tommy LiPuma Dies at 80

Tommy LiPuma, a Grammy-winning record producer who worked with numerous jazz artists including George Benson, Natalie Cole, Miles Davis, João Donato, Bill Evans, Al Jarreau, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Diana Krall, Ben Sidran, Gabor Szabo, Yellowjackets and many more, and who had major roles at a number of record labels over a 50-plus year career, died on March 14 at age 80 in New York. His death was confirmed by his wife, Gill LiPuma.

LiPuma’s pop, R&B and jazz productions resulted in 35 certified gold or platinum albums, 33 Grammy nominations and five winners. He also served in leadership roles at A&M, Warner Bros. and Verve Music Group.