Justin Fontaine
The Deane Media Solutions family is deeply saddened to report the untimely passing of veteran label executive Justin Fontaine. Justin began his accomplished career in 1980 at the local Detroit Capitol Branch as a Customer Service Rep. He then embarked on a decades’ long career in promotion that ultimately led him to top promo executive posts at Capitol Records and Hollywood Records.
Following his retirement, Justin pursued his personal passions: building his dream home in Montana, improving his golf game, and riding motorcycles across the country and in Europe. He was also an accomplished drummer, and a huge fan of Neil Peart, most renowned as the iconic drummer for the Canadian Rock band Rush who was also a motorcycle enthusiast.
Kelly Edwards Fontaine expresses, “Justin was my husband for 11 years and the love of my life for 14 years. We chased his dreams throughout his retirement and there was nothing better than seeing him truly happy and thriving. Justin had the best smile, the silliest sense of humor, a sensitive heart, and a passion for living life to its fullest. I’m so grateful for the years we had together and I will miss him for the rest of my days.”
DMS CEO Fred Deane reflects, “Justin and I were dear professional friends for decades. He would always brighten up a room with that charming smile, and was one of the most affable, charismatic, and approachable label execs in our business. He will be missed, but his memories will remain vibrant in many of our minds.”
Hollywood Records VP of Promotion Tony Smith, who worked with Justin for 15 years and met in Detroit at the Capitol Records Branch, comments, ”Justin and I quickly became friends in Detroit in the early 80’s when we both worked for Capitol. I was lucky to later work with him at Mercury Records and then Hollywood where he hired me. What I remember most about Justin was his tenacity in everything he did, and the best times we had were always on the golf course. My family loved Justin and especially my sons who had the chance to really get to know him (the hockey talk was common with Red Wings vs. Devils). He was a very generous and caring person and had a quick wit. I will miss him greatly and always keep the memories of the good times we had together.”
Justin was universally and warmly embraced by the music and radio industries. Here are a few industry friends who have offered their thoughts on this somber occasion.
Alex Tear, VP Pop Music & Programming, SiriusXM + Pandora, “Although I hadn’t connected with Justin in years, early on in my Michigan career he always took the time and saw potential in me that I had no confidence with. I will always remember that about him and pay it forward, he was a great guy with an unforgettable smile that will be greatly missed.“
Todd Cavanah, RVP, Audacy, “Like so many of us that knew Justin, we were introduced through music either on the radio or record side. Justin and I became great friends over the years as he would stay with me at my vacation home on Flathead Lake in Montana. A few years later, he built his retirement home there and we became neighbors. Justin was his happiest golfing, boating, riding jet skis, taking motorcycle trips, and driving his Corvette around the lake. This is the Justin that I will always remember. This is a very sad day for all of us. I miss you buddy.”
Scott Jameson, Programming Executive, Cumulus Media, “Justin was a dear friend. We met in 1986 when I was in Kansas City. We both shared our love of golf and played together often. In 1997 he was the best man at my wedding and later would visit often and hang out with our family. My young son Leo called him ‘Uncle Justin.’ This past Christmas we vacationed in Scottsdale and planned on getting together but he was traveling when we were there. I’m saddened beyond words.”
Bob Cavallo, retired, President Hollywood Records, “Justin was an important contributor to the great turnaround of the Disney Music Group. He developed a highly effective promotion staff at a very difficult time in the marketplace. I enjoyed working with him. We became great friends.”
Ken Benson, former programmer and now Consultant, “I met Justin when I became the Program Director of WRQN in 1990. He was the local Geffen Detroit rep at the time. I was immediately impressed by his passion for music, his integrity, and his no nonsense style. Our business relationship quickly turned into a friendship that lasted over 30 years.”
Mark Todd, former Programmer, “I considered Justin one of my very best friends. But that wasn’t an anomaly among those of us he interacted with in radio. It’s interesting that while he remained in contact with his record company peers, many of his ‘after retirement friends’ were actually from radio. I think that speaks volumes about the person and how he conducted himself personally and professionally.”
Service plans are still pending.
