We just lost a true giant of the music business. Michael Lippman, the man behind Bowie and Michael, has passed.
Michael Lippman, a highly influential music industry manager known for shaping the careers of iconic artists such as David Bowie and George Michael, passed away on Monday at his home in Santa Ynez. He was 79 years old. Lippman’s family, including his wife of 57 years, Nancy, and their two sons, Nick and Josh, were by his side at the time of his passing. The cause of death has not been made public.
Josh Lippman spoke to Rolling Stone about his father, describing him as a relentless advocate for his clients and a beloved family member. “Dad was the person you wanted in your corner in any situation,” he said. “He transitioned from bulldog to effortless charmer on a dime, often multiple times in a conversation, and never met a challenge he couldn’t solve.”
Lippman began his journey in the music industry under lawyer Marvin Mitchelson before moving to Columbia Pictures’ soundtracks department. He joined Arista Records in the mid-1970s, working alongside industry titan Clive Davis. In a 2016 interview with Billboard, Lippman reflected on his time with Davis, noting, “I never saw a man work that hard and that long every day. He inspired me to put in the time.”
During Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust era, Lippman took on the role of manager for the rock legend. He recalled their collaboration fondly, saying, “I’m very proud of the many ‘firsts’ we had together.” These included a landmark photo shoot, Bowie becoming the first white artist to appear on ‘Soul Train,’ and his No. 1 single, ‘Fame.’ Lippman also played a critical role in coordinating Bowie’s film debut in ‘The Man Who Fell to Earth.’
After his work with Bowie, Lippman partnered with Rob Kahane to manage George Michael, guiding him through his successful transition from Wham! to a solo career. Under Lippman’s stewardship, Michael’s solo work flourished until the singer’s untimely death in 2016.
Beyond Bowie and Michael, Lippman’s impressive roster included notable acts such as Matchbox Twenty, Jane’s Addiction, Megadeth, Melissa Manchester, Giorgio Moroder, and Bernie Taupin. He was known for his steadfast belief in his artists, saying in a 1990 interview with the Los Angeles Times, “If you believe in the act, it’s the best feeling in the world when the act does break through. You’ve got to be willing to fight. That’s why it is important to make sure you really believe in the artist.”
Industry observers have highlighted Lippman’s reputation for having a hard-nosed style combined with a deep commitment to the artists he represented. Peter Chakerian, life and culture editor for Cleveland.com, noted that Lippman’s work with Bowie alone situated him in rarefied air, while also praising his efforts with other artists, stating that he had a “necessary take-no-prisoners personality” to succeed in the entertainment industry.
Michael Lippman’s passing marks a significant loss for the music industry, leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of modern music.