Elliot Roberts, the music manager who oversaw the careers of Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, has died.
The cause of death is not yet known, but the 76-year-old’s death was confirmed by a rep for Young on behalf of Roberts’ Lookout Management.
“It is with heavy heart that we can confirm the passing of Elliot Roberts,” the statement read. “Roberts, among the most respected and beloved music industry figures of all time, leaves an indelible footprint as a pioneer and leader in the business of artist representation. His uncanny intellect, unmatched, sharp wit, larger-than-life charisma along with his keen understanding of the music industry will remain unparalleled. Truly one of a kind, he will be missed always and by many.”
Well known for playing a big part in the rise of the Laurel Canyon music scene throughout the ’60s and ’70s, Roberts went on to work with the likes of Tom Petty, David Crosby, Stephen Stills, Graham Nash, Talking Heads, Morrissey, and he helped launch the careers of Tracy Chapman and the Cars.
One of Roberts’ most notable working relationships included Joni Mitchell, whom he managed early on in her career, during a time in which she resided in New York. The pair later moved to Los Angeles together in 1967 with Mitchell’s then-boyfriend David Crosby. It was during this time Roberts formed Lookout Management with agent David Geffen.
His most famous manager/client relationship was with Neil Young. The pair started working together in 1969 and continued right up until Roberts’ death. Roberts also co-managed Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.
Young called Roberts “the greatest manager of all time” in a tribute he posted to his Neil Young Archives site. “Never one to think of himself, he puts everyone else first. That’s what he did for me for over fifty years of friendship, love and laughter, managing my life, protecting our art in the business of music. That’s what he did,” Young wrote. “When it came to our business, Elliot guided me through every move. We talked every day. Often I would call him multiple times in a day, arguing, discussing, planning and sharing. He was there for me and protected my music with a fierceness.”
He added: “No matter where I was in the world, no matter his other obligations, he was always by the side of the stage as much as he could be.”
Other tributes have come from Graham Nash, who said: “Elliot was a funny, brilliant friend and devoted manager. His life touched many people, and he brought forth the best in people. He was the glue that kept CSNY together in our early years and I will certainly miss him with sadness in my heart.”
Stephen Stills told Rolling Stone that Roberts was “probably the kindest, gentlest, and far and away the funniest man I ever worked with in Show Business.” “He was also tough as a barbed wire fence, fiercely loyal and keenly observant; guarding the best interests of his clients with uncommon tenacity and skill. But his greatest gift was his soulful, open heart,” Stills wrote.
Tributes have begun to pour in on social media.
“RIP #ElliotRoberts You will be missed old friend,” wrote Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. “I liked Elliot Roberts a lot. He was a kind, thoughtful, and helpful man. So sad to hear of his passing. Love always,” added Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
I liked Elliot Roberts a lot. He was a kind, thoughtful, and helpful man. So sad to hear of his passing. Love always.
— Flea (@flea333) June 22, 2019
See more tributes to Roberts below:
Elliot Roberts a true giant of the music biz – lifetime manager of Neil Young – has passed away, aged 76. His first client was a Canadian folk singer Joni Mitchell. RIP – a life well lived! He’s gone Out on the Weekend!
— Dennis Atkins (@dwabriz) June 22, 2019
I am so sad to hear of the passing of Elliot Roberts—one of the nicest kindest & funniest people I have ever met. I knew Elliot through his long time management of @Neilyoung. We had so many good times across the world. May the One who brings Peace bring Peace to all. pic.twitter.com/iQ597Nzvwf
— Marc Benioff (@Benioff) June 21, 2019
Saddened by the passing of Elliot Roberts. He laid the blueprint for how to manage us crazy artists and our bizarre, longshot careers. Grateful to those who make it possible for us to work and be happy.
— Jason Isbell (@JasonIsbell) June 22, 2019
We lost a friend today, someone who truly believed in our band, made our wildest dreams come true and was always there to show support even from far away. RIP Elliot, thank you for everything. Keep on rocking! ♥️#elliotroberts love this pic of him & Neil ? pic.twitter.com/scAblx3R1X
— The Magic Numbers (@themagicnumbers) June 22, 2019
Elliot Roberts may have been known as a tough guy who advocated for his clients, but he was also kind and willing to talk to fans who recognized him. The music industry lost a great one. #LongMayYouRun pic.twitter.com/o9IaHDuqSP
— David Paul (@D_Falt) June 22, 2019
The world knew him as Elliot Roberts, manager of Neil – and at times Joni, Dylan, CSNY and many others. When we crossed paths – here in 2000 (r) – I called him by his given name Mr. Rabinowitz; he was another Bronx boy. Condolences to his family & friends, and endless gratitude. pic.twitter.com/DMmZPcmiKm
— Jody Denberg (@JodyDenberg) June 22, 2019
Elliot Roberts May your memory be a blessing. You were always in the wings now you will always be in our hearts. @ThrashersWheat @NeilYoungNYA @rustradio @warnermusic @rockhall @rockhallceo @SPIN @consequence @vulture @aquarianweekly @brooklynvegan pic.twitter.com/49Gv2C3xnG
— Induct Crazy Horse into Rock N Roll Hall of Fame (@CrazyHorse4HOF) June 21, 2019
Elliot Roberts, manager of Joni Mitchell and former business partner of David Geffen has passed. What an absolute legend who defined a golden period in the music business. May he Rest In Peace. Both Sides Now. pic.twitter.com/c60KVKwFvR
— Andy Edwards (@andyedwardsbiz) June 21, 2019
So sad to hear of the great Elliot Roberts passing on. He was a giant among artist managers and was always a friend to my manager, Scooter Weintraub, and me. https://t.co/TObB1oZZV8
— Sheryl Crow (@SherylCrow) June 22, 2019
Worked closely w/ Elliot Roberts at NBC and while writing Pearl Jam 20. He always kept me on my toes, whether it meant prepping for an interview w/ Neil Young on five minutes' notice or postponing Jimmy Page (!!) so that Neil could appear on TV instead. RIP to an absolute legend.
— Jonathan Cohen (@brainofjoacohen) June 22, 2019
I was blessed to be part of the magical years in Laurel Canyon. Elliott’s spirit will be carried by all of us. #ElliotRoberts https://t.co/QhopY4630X
— Nils Lofgren (@nilslofgren) June 23, 2019
thanks for your life, Elliot Roberts. "there ain't nothing like a friend, who can tell you're just pissing in the wind" (which is what he probably just told Neil here). photo: Joel Bernstein pic.twitter.com/cMKuZSHq1I
— rob sheffield (@robsheff) June 22, 2019