SIX QUESTIONS FOR IRVING AZOFF

We asked the hardest-working man in showbiz for his thoughts about the loss of Glenn Frey and the upcoming Clive Davis Pre-Grammy Gala (2/14), during which the 2016 Salute to Industry Icons will honor him with the President’s Merit Award.

Now that you’ve had some time to absorb Glenn’s loss, can you express his impact on your life and career?
Glenn Frey was a huge business, music, and golf influence on me. It’s like losing a brother. It will never be the same.

Glenn and Don seemed like such opposites, which may be why they complemented each other so beautifully. What was key to their partnership?
Mutual respect and knowing that they each brought something different to the table.

What are the plans for the memorial service?
It will be private. He was beloved by so many—and I don’t mean just industry people. He did so much and he was a regular guy so it will have to be done knowing that we have to accommodate a lot of people. Cindy wants it planned far enough in advance so that his many friends have time to travel and plan for it. Nothing set yet, but in progress.

Many people were surprised that you were willing to be “saluted” at Clive’s pre-Grammy gala with the President’s Merit Award. What motivated you to accept?
It’s the first time a manager was offered the icon award. It’s important that artists and managers be recognized by NARAS.
I am just a representative of those communities. Irving with Jim Dolan, Joe, Glenn and Tim (Photo: Lester Cohen)

Can you describe your relationships with Clive and with Neil Portnow? Any funny stories?
What can I say, but both Reo Speedwagon and Dan Fogelberg were signed at Columbia and Epic during Clive’s reign. Neil’s a class act. Not feeling very funny this week

How are you preparing for a long night during which you’re the center of attention and a bunch of fellow bigwigs are gushing over you?
Arrive late. Leave early. Be Irving as usual.

Are you bummed about not being able to attend Jimmy Iovine’s wedding?
It will be a late night. Gotta go congratulate Jimmy and Liberty late in the evening.