Ahmet Ertegun

Ahmet Ertegun /ˈɑːmɛt ˈɛrtəɡən/, Turkish pronunciation: [ahˈmet eɾteˈɟyn]; (July 31 [O.S. 18 July] 1923 – December 14, 2006) was a Turkish-American businessman, songwriter and philanthropist. He was best known as the founder and president of Atlantic Records, and for discovering and championing many leading rhythm and blues and rock musicians. He also wrote classic blues and pop songs, and served as chairman of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and museum. Ertegun has been described as "one of the most significant figures in the modern recording industry."

He was also a significant figure in fostering ties between the U.S. and Turkey, his birthplace, and served as the chairman of the American Turkish Society for over 20 years until his death. He also co-founded the New York Cosmos soccer team of the original North American Soccer League.

Background

Born in Istanbul to an aristocratic Turkish family, Ahmet and his family, including elder brother Nesuhi, moved to Washington, D.C. in 1935, with their father, Münir Ertegün, who served as the second Ambassador (after Ahmet Muhtar Bey, his predecessor between 1927 and 1934) of the then-young Republic of Turkey to the United States of America. Prior to his appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Turkey to Washington, Münir Ertegün was Ambassador of the Republic to London for two years, during 1932–1934.