Seymour Stein is a music industry legend who has left an indelible mark on the business over his six-decade-long career. His contributions to the industry are numerous and diverse, including the discovery of some of the most successful and influential artists in rock and roll history.

I just love music and love this business. And you know what? I still don’t believe I get paid for it. 

Seymour Stein

Stein was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1942. From a young age, he was passionate about music and knew that he wanted to work in the industry. He got his start in the music business in the 1960s, working for the legendary record label, King Records. While at King, Stein played a key role in the success of the label’s R&B artists, helping to secure radio airplay and promote their records.

In 1966, Stein joined the independent label, Sire Records, which would prove to be his most significant career move. Under his leadership, Sire became one of the most influential record labels of the 1970s and 1980s. Stein’s A&R skills were unparalleled, and he was responsible for discovering some of the biggest acts of the era.

One of Stein’s most significant discoveries was the Ramones. He first saw the band play at CBGB in New York City in 1975 and was immediately blown away by their raw energy and unique sound. Stein signed the Ramones to Sire Records and produced their first album, which is now considered a classic of punk rock. The Ramones went on to become one of the most influential bands of all time, and Stein’s role in their success cannot be overstated.

Stein also played a key role in the success of Talking Heads, another groundbreaking band that he discovered and signed to Sire Records. He saw the band play at CBGB in 1976 and recognized their potential immediately. Stein produced the band’s first two albums, which helped establish them as one of the most innovative and influential acts of the era.

Throughout his career, Stein’s ear for talent was unmatched. He also signed and worked with a diverse array of artists, including Madonna, The Smiths, The Cure, Depeche Mode, Ice-T, and many others. His ability to recognize potential in artists and to help them realize their vision is a testament to his skill as an A&R executive.

In addition to his work at Sire Records, Stein was also instrumental in the founding of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He was one of the original members of the board of directors and helped shape the organization into what it is today.

Stein’s impact on the music industry has been widely recognized. In 2005, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the non-performer category, and he has received numerous other honors and awards throughout his career. He was also the subject of a documentary film, “Seymour: An Introduction,” which chronicles his life and career.

Seymour Stein, who was born in 1942, passed away April 2nd, 2023, at his home in Los Angeles of cancer at the age of 80. See obituary here.