Date of Birth: August 6, 1918
Zodiac Sign: Leo
Date of Death: November 22, 2001
Biography
Norman Granz was a renowned American jazz music impresario, promoter, and record producer. Born on August 6, 1918, in Los Angeles, California, Granz was a pivotal figure in the jazz world, known for his work in promoting jazz music and fighting against racial segregation in the United States. He founded several influential record labels, including Clef Records, Norgran Records, and Verve Records. Granz is also the mastermind behind the Jazz at the Philharmonic (JATP) concert series, which brought together some of the greatest jazz musicians of the time and toured internationally. Throughout his career, Granz was a fierce advocate for civil rights, often insisting on desegregated venues for his concerts and using his influence to challenge discriminatory practices in the music industry. His commitment to both jazz and social justice left a lasting legacy in the world of music.
5 Interesting Facts about Norman Granz
1. Norman Granz founded the Jazz at the Philharmonic concert series in 1944, which became one of the most important platforms for jazz musicians.
2. He produced albums for legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Charlie Parker, and Oscar Peterson.
3. Granz was known for his staunch stance on racial equality, often refusing to book performances in segregated venues.
4. He sold Verve Records to MGM in 1960 but continued to work as a producer and promoter.
5. Granz was an accomplished artist himself and contributed to the cover art for some of the albums he produced.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Norman Granz
1. “Jazz is America’s greatest gift to the world.”
2. “The music is the only important thing, and it’s the only thing that will survive.”
3. “I was interested in making a statement about the music and the people who play it.”
4. “I never thought of myself as a pioneer; I just did what I believed in.”
5. “Racism is a disease, and I refuse to be a carrier.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Norman Granz’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.
Children
Norman Granz did not have any children.
Relevant Links
2. [Jazz at the Philharmonic Overview](https://www.jazzatphilharmonic.com/
3. [Norman Granz and Verve Records](https://www.vervemusicgroup.com/
5. [Norman Granz on Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/264095-Norman-Granz