The Music Manager Who Shaped Legends: How Michael Lippman's Career Strategy Can Inspire Your Professional Journey

The Legacy of a Music Industry Titan

Michael Lippman, the legendary music manager who guided the careers of David Bowie and George Michael, passed away at 79. His death marks the end of an era for the entertainment industry, but his professional approach offers valuable lessons for today's workforce.

Michael Lippman helped guide David Bowie during his iconic Ziggy Stardust era

Building Iconic Careers Through Strategic Management

Lippman's journey in the music business began with lawyer Marvin Mitchelson before transitioning to Columbia Pictures' soundtracks department. His breakthrough came when he joined Arista Records in the mid-1970s, working alongside industry giant Clive Davis.

"I never saw a man work that hard and that long every day," Lippman said of Davis in a 2016 Billboard interview. "He inspired me to put in the time."

The Ziggy Stardust Breakthrough

During Bowie's transformative Ziggy Stardust era, Lippman took on management duties that would cement his reputation. "I'm very proud of the many 'firsts' we had together," Lippman recalled. "My first big photo shoot was with him; he was the first ever white artist on 'Soul Train'; he had a No. 1 single with 'Fame'; he starred in the movie 'The Man Who Fell to Earth,' which I put together."

From Wham! to Solo Superstardom

After Bowie, Lippman partnered with Rob Kahane to manage George Michael through his transition from Wham! to solo artist. Michael's solo career flourished under Lippman's guidance, demonstrating the manager's ability to navigate career transitions successfully.

A Diverse Portfolio of Talent

Lippman's roster extended far beyond these two icons to include acts like Matchbox Twenty, Jane's Addiction, Megadeth, Melissa Manchester, Giorgio Moroder, and Bernie Taupin. This diversity shows his ability to work across multiple genres and artist types.

The Professional Philosophy That Built Careers

"But if you believe in the act, it's the best feeling in the world when the act does break through," Lippman told the Los Angeles Times in 1990. "You've got to be willing to fight. That's why it is important to make sure you really believe in the artist."

Peter Chakerian, life & culture editor of Cleveland.com and The Plain Dealer, noted: "He had a reputation for being a hard-nosed, take-no-prisoners personality – necessary if you're going to work in the entertainment industry – but also carried a strong belief in the artists he threw his support and skill behind. That tact endeared him to his clientele."

Family and Professional Legacy

Lippman died with his family at his side, including his wife of 57 years, Nancy, and their sons, Nick and Josh. His son Josh told Rolling Stone: "Dad was a relentless advocate for his clients, his friends, and his family. He was the person you wanted in your corner in any situation. He transitioned from bulldog to effortless charmer on a dime, often multiple times in a conversation, and never met a challenge he couldn't solve."