Ross Grierson
Ross Grierson passed away peacefully on Wednesday night (2/28) in Cincinnati, Ohio surrounded by the love of his family and dearest lifelong friends. According to his wishes, no funeral arrangements will be made. Plans are coming together for an industry-led celebration in Cincinnati this April. Details will be socialized once confirmed.
Ross’s career in music spanned four decades, with colorful chapters at Globe Records, Elektra Records, A&M Records, Interscope Records, Tri-State Promotions, Epic Records, Island Def Jam Music Group and 60/50 Promotion & Marketing.
His proud contributions to the careers of Eagles, Sheryl Crow, Sting, Janet Jackson, Blues Traveler, Amy Grant, Del Amitri, Extreme, Soundgarden, Gin Blossoms, Bon Jovi, Los Lonely Boys, Rihanna, The Killers and many more qualify Ross as a first-ballot Hall of Famer.
“Evil Roy” (as he was affectionately known) made lasting connections with artists and powerfully deep relationships with radio programmers. He was also a revered and beloved coach and mentor to generations of young music executives whom he guided into and throughout their careers in music. Celebrated for his endless sense of humor and razor sharp wit, Ross will be dearly missed.
Long-time friend and business associate Peter Gray (now EVP/GM at WBR, and former 1998 A&M intern for Ross), so eloquently comments, “As the news sinks in and we all grieve together, laughing about our memories and crying about our loss, it is important to remind those who knew him best what Ross would say if he caught you tearing up about him…”
