Tommy LiPuma

Awarded: 2016
Born: Cleveland, Ohio

"Tommy LiPuma was one of the most successful music producers in history. Yet, he was strikingly humble and accessible to our students and faculty. His contributions to our building and programs were unmatched."

- Dr. Alex Johnson, President, Tri-C

Tommy LiPuma was one of the most successful pop and jazz producers of all time, with 36 gold and platinum records to his credit, 36 Grammy® nominations and five Grammy® Awards.

Born and raised in Cleveland, his keen ear for the magic of what makes a hit made him one of the industry’s most respected executives at A&M, Blue Thumb, Warner Bros., Elektra, and as president of The GRP Recording Co. and chairman of The Verve Music Group.

He produced for legendary artists such as Diana Krall, Barbra Streisand, Miles Davis, Natalie Cole, George Benson, Sir Paul McCartney and Leon Russell, to name a few. During his 50 years in the business, he sold more than 75 million records.