Howie Klein: Legendary Sire and Reprise Records Executive Passes Away at 77

Howie Klein, a defining figure in artist-friendly record executive roles, left a lasting legacy in music and activism.

A Life Well-Lived: Remembering Howie Klein

When news broke that Howie Klein, the iconic record executive behind some of the most influential moments at Sire and Reprise Records, had passed away at 77, it struck a chord with anyone who cherishes the spirit of rock, punk, and alternative music. His sister, Michelle Swerdloff, shared the somber news on Christmas Day, revealing that Klein had been battling pancreatic cancer. Her words summed up a life lived with passion and dedication:

"He had a truly amazing life and he lived it everyday. He will be missed by everyone who knew him and loved him. Good night to my dear brother."

Howie Klein, legendary record executive.

From Brooklyn to The Bay: Early Days and a Punk Pioneer

Born on February 20, 1948, in Brooklyn, Klein’s journey into the music world began with an early eye for talent. Back in his university days at Stony Brook University in New York, he was booking legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, and Janis Joplin. Imagine the energy of those shows—Klein was right there, in the thick of a musical revolution.

His move to San Francisco in the mid-70s marked a pivotal shift. Becoming a DJ at KSAN-FM in 1976, Klein quickly established himself as an early and ardent supporter of punk and new wave music—genres that were shaking up the music scene with raw energy and rebellious spirit. It’s hard not to admire someone who spotted the seismic shifts in music trends and threw his full support behind them.

The Label Years: Championing Artists and Creative Freedom

Klein’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through when he co-founded 415 Records in 1978, nurturing bands like Romeo Void and Wire Train. But his real claim to fame came when he joined Sire Records in 1987. Sire was a powerhouse, especially in alternative music, and Klein was instrumental in shaping its vision.

One of his standout achievements was helping to revitalize Lou Reed’s career with the 1989 album New York. This record is often hailed as Lou Reed’s late-career masterpiece, and Klein’s support was crucial in bringing that project to life. As a fan, you can’t help but appreciate how these behind-the-scenes champions make music history possible.

At the Helm of Reprise Records

In 1989, Klein was appointed president of Reprise Records, a role he held for 13 years. This was an era when the label housed giants like Green Day, the Ramones, Neil Young, Alanis Morissette, Ice-T, Eric Clapton, and Fleetwood Mac. The roster alone reads like a rock ‘n’ roll hall of fame.

Klein was known not just for his business acumen but for his unwavering commitment to artist rights and creative freedom. He was a true artist’s advocate, often putting their vision above conventional commercial wisdom. This approach earned him profound respect and loyalty from the musicians he worked with.

Activism and Fighting Censorship

Klein’s influence extended beyond the studio and boardroom. He became a fierce voice against censorship in music and was deeply involved in political activism. Notably, he was a leader in the Rock The Vote campaign, an initiative aimed at mobilizing young voters through music culture.

His dedication to civil liberties and free expression earned him numerous accolades, including the Spirit of Liberty Award and the Bill of Rights Award from the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California. Klein’s legacy as an activist is as important as his contributions to music.

The Wilco Chapter and Later Life

After Klein’s departure from Warner Brothers in 2001, following the Time Warner-AOL merger, a significant moment unfolded in music history. His successor did not release Wilco’s 2002 album Yankee Hotel Foxtrot as the band intended, leading Wilco to leave Reprise, sign with Nonesuch Records, and produce one of their most critically acclaimed works. Klein’s earlier support of artists like Wilco demonstrated his knack for recognizing groundbreaking talent.

In his later years, Klein kept the activist flame burning through his Down With Tyranny blog, championing progressive political causes and continuing to engage with the world in a meaningful way.

Celebrating a Legacy That Shaped Music and Culture

Howie Klein’s story is a reminder of how one passionate individual can shape the cultural landscape. From punk’s underground buzz to the heights of mainstream success, he walked alongside artists who defined generations, always putting their creativity first.

His life's work wasn’t just about business; it was about belief—in artists, in freedom, and in the power of music to change hearts and minds. As fans and admirers, we owe a debt to visionaries like Klein who stood guard at the gates of creativity.

FAQ

• What were some of Howie Klein’s major contributions to the music industry?
  He was instrumental in supporting punk and alternative acts, revitalizing Lou Reed’s career, and leading Reprise Records to work with artists like Green Day and Alanis Morissette.
• How did Klein support political activism through music?
  Klein was a leader in the Rock The Vote campaign and used his platform to fight censorship and promote civil liberties.
• Which record labels did Howie Klein work for?
  He co-founded 415 Records and held executive positions at Sire Records and Reprise Records.
• What was Klein’s role in Wilco’s album release controversy?
  Klein had departed before the Wilco album Yankee Hotel Foxtrot was mishandled by his successor, which led to Wilco leaving Reprise Records.
• How did Klein’s early career reflect his passion for music?
  He booked legendary artists like Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin in college and became a pioneering DJ supporting punk and new wave in San Francisco.

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