The renowned attorney Joel Katz, a pivotal figure in the music industry who once represented a multitude of top executives, has passed away peacefully at his home on April 18. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Rikki, during his final moments, marking the end of an era for many in the industry who relied on his expertise and guidance.
As the visionary founder and chairman of the global entertainment and media practice at Greenberg Traurig, Katz was not merely an attorney; he was a strategic mastermind who viewed the music industry as an expansive chessboard. His influence extended beyond legal representation, as he played a crucial role in positioning executives in prestigious roles, shaping the careers of many in the music business.
Throughout his illustrious career, Katz represented numerous artists and industry organizations, including the Recording Academy and the Country Music Association. He was instrumental in negotiating groundbreaking television deals that not only elevated his clients but also established new benchmarks for contracts in the entertainment landscape, setting a precedent that many would follow in the years to come.
Originally hailing from the Bronx, Katz, who was 80 at the time of his passing, ventured south to pursue his education at the University of Tennessee Law School on a scholarship while juggling night shifts at a Holiday Inn. His remarkable journey in law culminated in the law library at UT being named in his honor, a testament to his enduring legacy and significant contributions to the field of law.
One of the pivotal moments in Katz‘s career was his first negotiation in 1971 on behalf of the legendary artist James Brown. In a 2019 interview with Billboard, Katz reflected on the invaluable lesson he learned from Brown: “patience.” He described Brown as one of the most intelligent individuals he ever encountered, underscoring that despite lacking formal education, he possessed a profound understanding of the industry, which Katz referred to as “street-ology.”
After spending decades at Greenberg Traurig, Katz made the strategic decision to join Barnes & Thornburg in 2021. He brought along prestigious clients such as Mike Dungan, the then-head of Universal Music Group Nashville, and Randy Goodman, the former chief of Sony Music Nashville, further solidifying his reputation as a leading attorney in the music industry.
Aside from his professional achievements, Katz was deeply committed to philanthropy, dedicating significant time and resources to organizations like City of Hope and T.J. Martell Foundation. He often advised younger attorneys, emphasizing the importance of contributing to community welfare: “Don’t do everything you do for money. Give back to the organizations that are good. Help people do things. It will make you a better lawyer, it will make you a better person, and you will rise in the community of this business.” His words resonate with many who knew him.
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