Music manager Michael Lippman, known for guiding the careers of artists like George Michael and David Bowie, has passed away at his home in Santa Ynez, California. He was 79. Lippman died on December 29, surrounded by family, with no cause of death disclosed.
Michael Lippman, a prominent figure in the music industry, died on December 29 at his longtime residence in Santa Ynez, California. Family members, including his wife of 57 years, Nancy, and sons Nick and Josh, gathered to bid farewell. A cause of death was not revealed.
Born in Rochester, New York, Lippman began his career working for lawyer Marvin Mitchelson, which led to a role in Columbia Pictures' soundtracks department. He later managed west coast operations for Arista Records in the mid-1970s under Clive Davis, whom he credited as an inspiration for his work ethic.
Lippman's management career included key collaborations with David Bowie during the 1970s, encompassing the artist's Ziggy Stardust era, the 1976 film The Man Who Fell to Earth, a Soul Train performance, and the Number One single 'Fame' in 1975. He described Bowie as an influential teacher in fashion, art, and photography.
In the 1980s, Lippman represented Melissa Manchester, playing a pivotal role in her history-making appearance at the Oscars, where she performed two nominated songs: 'Through the Eyes of Love' from Ice Castles and 'I'll Never Say Goodbye' from The Promise. Manchester later recalled him as a 'great barracuda' of a manager with endless connections.
Lippman's most notable tenure came with George Michael, managing the singer from his solo debut after Wham! until Michael's death in 2016. He fell in love with Michael's 1987 album Faith and aimed to make him the world's biggest star, a goal he achieved. Even after Michael's passing, Lippman handled sync requests, such as 'Father Figure' in a recent Taylor Swift project.
He also managed Matchbox Twenty and Rob Thomas throughout their careers at Atlantic Records, contributing to hits like Thomas's 'Smooth' with Carlos Santana. Lippman took on songwriters like Bernie Taupin, Elton John's partner, and built Lippman Entertainment with his son Nick. His brother Terry worked alongside him for years.
Known for his intimidating 6-foot-1-inch presence, which he cultivated to advocate fiercely for clients, Lippman hosted parties for stars including Ringo Starr and Quincy Jones. A horse enthusiast, he owned a ranch in Santa Barbara County with champion breeds. He is survived by Nancy, sons Josh and Nick, daughter-in-law Lauren, and grandchildren Olivia, Jordan, Zachary, and Tucker.
Sons Josh and Nick shared heartfelt tributes, with Josh calling him a 'relentless advocate' and Nick his 'mentor and greatest teacher.' Rob Thomas, on Instagram, described Lippman as a father figure and the most influential person in his life after his wife.
