Movies

Larry Vallon, L.A. concert executive behind the Universal Amphitheatre, dies at 77

BBG News

As a devoted cinema-goer and music enthusiast, I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Vallon, a true legend in the world of concert promotion. Having spent over five decades in the industry, Vallon’s influence on live entertainment is immeasurable.

Larry Vallon, the seasoned concert impresario who transformed the Universal Amphitheater into a dominant force in the region for AEG and other companies, passed away at the age of 77.

A representative for AEG confirmed Vallon’s death on July 14 due to complications from Alzheimer’s.

Larry Vallon’s journey in concert promotion lasted for five decades. It started with him working as an assistant on Bob Eubanks’ “The Newlywed Game” show. Later, he worked for promoters such as Wolf and Rissmiller Concerts before establishing his own company, Larry Vallon Presents. (Alternatively, Larry Vallon’s concert promotion career extended over five decades. It began with him assisting on Bob Eubanks’ “The Newlywed Game” program. Then, he worked for promoters like Wolf and Rissmiller Concerts before launching his own business, Larry Vallon Presents.)

For over two decades, he was a dedicated employee at the company that eventually evolved into Universal Concerts, later known as House Of Blues Concerts. During this time, he was fortunate to learn from his influential mentor and industry legend, Lew Wasserman. He was responsible for securing performances from renowned acts such as the Rolling Stones, Pink Floyd, and the Who. His exceptional talent buying skills earned him the prestigious Title Buyer of the Year award from Pollstar a total of four times.

In the late ’80s, Vallon took charge of and transformed the old Universal Amphitheatre into a renowned stage for international acts such as Frank Sinatra and Linda Ronstadt, who both held residencies there. During Vallon’s tenure, the venue gained significant popularity throughout the ’90s, hosting performances by Maná, Juanes, Julio Iglesias, among others. Their shows contributed significantly to the blossoming of Latin and Spanish-language music in the United States.

In 2004, Vallon joined AEG and worked there for fifteen years before retiring in 2019. During his time at Universal in 1984, Vallon hired Jay Marciano who later became the CEO of AEG Presents. Marciano shared with Hits Daily Double, “He was my friend, mentor, and big brother I never had. The most positive person I have ever met, and he had a great sense of humor. My life has been greatly enriched by knowing him. I loved that man.”

Vallon is mourned by his spouse, Claudia; his daughters Vanessa Vallon and Kelly Ciccotti, along with her husband Matt, survive him.

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2024-07-22 23:36

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