Jay Lasker

American of Russian origin label executive and producer. Lasker worked for Decca since 1945 and he was involved into the production of Bill Haley's "Rock Around the Clock". In the 50s he was also sales executive for Knapp Record and joined Frank Sinatra's new Reprise Records label in the early 60. He worked for Del-Fi, Vee Jay and Dunhill Records labels and became president of ABC/Dunhill Records. In 1975 he was an exec of the then new Ariola America, Inc.. In 1980 Berry Gordy made him president of the Motown label, office he held for a few years before illness forced his retirement. Born: January 7, 1924 Died: June 11, 1989 in Encino, California (age 65).