Phil Quartararo Death and Obituary, Who was Phil Quartararo? What Happened to Phil Quartararo? How Did Phil Quartararo Die?

Legendary record executive Phil Quartararo, instrumental in U2 and Spice Girls' success, passes at 67, leaving a profound void in music.

by Priyanka P

Updated Nov 25, 2023

Phil Quartararo Death and Obituary, Who was Phil Quartararo? What Happened to Phil Quartararo? How Did Phil Quartararo Die?
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Phil Quartararo Death and Obituary

Phil Quartararo, a respected record executive known for his influential career spanning five decades, has passed away at the age of 67 due to pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles. Throughout his journey at A&M, RCA, Island, EMI, Warner Bros., and Virgin Records, Quartararo played a pivotal role in the success of artists like U2, Paula Abdul, and the Spice Girls.

Starting as a radio promotions manager, he rose through the ranks, contributing significantly to the introduction of U2 in the United States during his time at Island Records. Beyond his executive roles, he also served as the executive producer of the PBS miniseries, "The Soundtrack of Our Lives."

Quartararo's impact on the music industry is remembered fondly, with artists like Paula Abdul expressing gratitude for his unwavering support. His death leaves a notable void in the music world.

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Who was Phil Quartararo? 

Phil Quartararo, born on January 7, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York, was a prominent American music industry executive. He played a vital role in shaping the careers of various recording artists over his five-decade career. Starting as a local radio promotion manager, Quartararo rose through the ranks and held key positions, including CEO at Virgin Records, Warner Bros.

Records, and EMI. Notably, he contributed to the success of artists like U2, Linkin Park, and the Spice Girls. Beyond his executive roles, Quartararo was recognized for his advocacy of artist rights and efforts against music piracy. His impact extended to philanthropy, sitting on boards of organizations like the Grammy Foundation and City of Hope. Quartararo passed away on November 22, 2023, at the age of 67, succumbing to pancreatic cancer.

What Happened to Phil Quartararo?

Phil Quartararo, the esteemed American music industry executive, passed away on November 22, 2023, at the age of 67 due to pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles. Throughout his career spanning five decades, Quartararo made significant contributions to the music industry, holding key positions at Virgin Records, Warner Bros. Records, and EMI.

Known for his roles in shaping the careers of artists like U2, Linkin Park, and the Spice Girls, Quartararo was also a staunch advocate for artist rights. His legacy extended beyond executive roles to include philanthropic efforts, contributing to various causes. His passing marked the end of a remarkable career that left an indelible impact on the music industry, with colleagues and artists expressing gratitude for his influence and support. 

How Did Phil Quartararo Die?

Phil Quartararo passed away at the age of 67 on November 22, 2023, due to pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles. Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the pancreas, an organ that plays a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. The disease is often challenging to detect in its early stages and can progress rapidly.

Quartararo's battle with pancreatic cancer ultimately led to his demise. His death marked the end of a prolific career in the music industry, where he had made substantial contributions to the success of various recording artists. Colleagues, artists, and the industry at large mourned the loss of a respected figure known for his advocacy of artist rights and promotion-minded approach.

Phil Quartararo Early Life

Phil Quartararo was born on January 7, 1956, in Brooklyn, New York. His early life reflects a passion for the music industry that would define his later career. Quartararo's journey into the music world started during his high school days at Chaminade High School in Mineola, New York. Even then, he showed an interest in music by booking acts out of his bedroom.

Upon attending Syracuse University, he shared a residence with future industry figures John Sykes and Rob Light. Sykes went on to co-found MTV, while Light became a managing partner at CAA. Quartararo's professional journey began in the late 1970s as a local radio promotion manager for A&M Records, where he showcased his promotional skills.

This early experience laid the foundation for his later impactful roles in the music industry, leading him to become a respected music executive.

Phil Quartararo Career

Phil Quartararo had a distinguished career as an American music industry executive. Starting in the late 1970s, he entered the record industry as a local radio promotion manager for A&M Records. His career gained momentum when he became a regional promotion manager for RCA Records in the early 1980s.

A pivotal moment came when he joined Island Records as the Senior Vice President of Promotion and Marketing from 1982 to 1986. During this time, he played a crucial role in introducing U2 to the American audience. In 1986, he became part of the team that launched Virgin Records America and later served as its president and CEO.

Quartararo's influence extended to Warner Bros. Records, where he became president in 1997, working with artists such as Madonna, Linkin Park, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. He later took on roles at EMI Music, focusing on marketing and organizational restructuring. Throughout his career, Quartararo was recognized for his promotion-minded approach and dedication to artist rights.

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Phil Quartararo Death and Obituary - FAQs

1. Who was Phil Quartararo?  

Phil Quartararo was a revered American music executive who played a pivotal role in the success of artists like U2 and the Spice Girls during his influential five-decade career.

2. How did Phil Quartararo die?  

Phil Quartararo passed away at the age of 67 in Los Angeles due to pancreatic cancer, marking the end of a prolific career in the music industry.

3. What was Phil Quartararo's early life like?  

Born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 7, 1956, Quartararo's early life showcased his passion for the music industry, starting from booking acts in high school to his college days at Syracuse University.

4. What were the highlights of Phil Quartararo's career?  

Quartararo had a distinguished career as a music executive, making significant contributions at A&M, RCA, Island, EMI, Warner Bros., and Virgin Records, notably introducing U2 in the U.S. during his time at Island Records.

5. What philanthropic contributions did Phil Quartararo make?  

Phil Quartararo was actively involved in philanthropy, sitting on the boards of organizations like the Grammy Foundation, City of Hope, and Recording Industry Association of America, receiving various awards for his contributions.