Jerry Heller is a renowned figure in the music industry, having played a pivotal role in shaping trends and musical movements for over five decades. As a superagent, he rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, representing iconic artists such as Elton John, Pink Floyd, Journey, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Boz Scaggs, Grassroots, Guess Who, Marvin Gaye, Joan Armatrading, Van Morrison, War, Average White Band, and Crosby Nash.
During this period, he was instrumental in bringing these artists to America for their first United States tours. His ability to predict the movements of the music industry earned him a reputation as one of the preeminent superagents, alongside Freddie Fields and David Geffen.
In the 1980s, Jerry Heller shifted his focus to the emerging Rap music scene, becoming the driving force behind the crossover of Rap to the mainstream. He co-founded Ruthless Records with the late Eazy E and discovered and managed NWA, Egyptian Lover, World Class Wreckin Cru, LA Dream Team, J.J. Fad, The DOC, Michel'le, Above the Law, and other influential artists who laid the foundation for the success of Priority Records and Interscope Records.
Throughout his career, Jerry Heller demonstrated an uncanny ability to spot and nurture talent, establishing the careers of Dr. Dre, Bone Thugs 'N Harmony, and other successful artists. At the height of his success, Ruthless Records was earning $10,000,000 per month, and the original members of NWA have grossed a staggering $1.75 billion dollars.
Jerry Heller's impact on the music industry is undeniable, and he remains one of the most successful record company executives of the Rap Era, having generated over $110 million in record sales, not counting singles, with Ruthless Records alone.
