David Geffen: The Hollywood power broker
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Good Bad Billionaire
This episode is titled:
David Geffen: The Hollywood power broker
Notable Quotes
"The entire vibe changes, he says. It used to be, let's make music, money's a by-product. Then it becomes, let's make money, music is a by-product."
"I should be an example to young gay kids in the end everybody knows who Anonymous is."
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Get More InsightsEpisode Summary
This episode of the BBC podcast 'Good Bad Billionaire' focuses on David Geffen, a billionaire known for his influential role in the music and entertainment industries. From the outset, we learn of Geffen's unconventional and ambitious journey. He grew up in a challenging environment in Brooklyn, with a troubled family backdrop that included a mother with mental health issues and a father who struggled to find work. This adversity fueled his desire for success.
He left home right after high school, moving to Los Angeles, where he initially got a small part as an extra in a film. A breakthrough came when a connection led him to Phil Spector, a prominent music producer. Geffen quickly established himself in the entertainment business, moving from the mailroom of a talent agency to becoming a successful agent by signing notable clients.
Geffen made a name for himself as a record label executive, founding Asylum Records, where he represented iconic musicians like Joni Mitchell and The Eagles. His knack for talent spotting and business acumen allowed him to sell the label for millions quickly, establishing him as a millionaire in the industry.
Despite initial setbacks in film, where he faced corporate conflicts, Geffen later thrived with DreamWorks alongside Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg. DreamWorks enjoyed significant successes and even some flops but eventually made Geffen even wealthier, leading to immense profits from deals and investments in various sectors, including art.
As of now, Geffen is active in philanthropy, having donated substantial amounts to institutions and advocating for public giving. The episode concludes by evaluating Geffen's legacy and reputation in the entertainment industry, soaring wealth, and his intentions to donate his fortune while alive.
He left home right after high school, moving to Los Angeles, where he initially got a small part as an extra in a film. A breakthrough came when a connection led him to Phil Spector, a prominent music producer. Geffen quickly established himself in the entertainment business, moving from the mailroom of a talent agency to becoming a successful agent by signing notable clients.
Geffen made a name for himself as a record label executive, founding Asylum Records, where he represented iconic musicians like Joni Mitchell and The Eagles. His knack for talent spotting and business acumen allowed him to sell the label for millions quickly, establishing him as a millionaire in the industry.
Despite initial setbacks in film, where he faced corporate conflicts, Geffen later thrived with DreamWorks alongside Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg. DreamWorks enjoyed significant successes and even some flops but eventually made Geffen even wealthier, leading to immense profits from deals and investments in various sectors, including art.
As of now, Geffen is active in philanthropy, having donated substantial amounts to institutions and advocating for public giving. The episode concludes by evaluating Geffen's legacy and reputation in the entertainment industry, soaring wealth, and his intentions to donate his fortune while alive.
Key Takeaways
- David Geffen rose from a challenging childhood to become a billionaire through tenacity and strategic talent management.
- He founded successful record labels and played a crucial role in the careers of multiple high-profile artists.
- Geffen's ventures into film with DreamWorks highlighted his influence in both music and cinema.
- He is now known for his philanthropic efforts, seeking to give away much of his wealth.
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