Episode 13 - Gary Ballen

Today I am interviewing someone who has had a multi-faceted career in the music industry! From an early age he had a desire to be a musician and follow in his cousin Jerry Heller's path in the music business, both of which he has been doing for the past 65 years. Gary was deeply involved in the music scene in Columbus, OH promoting concerts and playing at a thriving Country Rock Club. In the summer of 1969, he made a pivotal visit to his cousin Jerry in Hollywood, CA and that fueled his desire to return one day! Then in 1978 he got a chance to manage a music studio in Northridge, CA, there he got to work with Chaka Kahn & Rufus, Three Dog Night, The Knack and The Jacksons. In 1980 he was hired to be the Production Manager for the band Air Supply on their first American Tour. He then did two tours as Tour Manager for Lita Ford. Switching gears he went on to work for a Classical artist Richard Clayderman and Jazz fusion artist Jeff Lorber. In 1985 he started his own management company with the band Hurricane and Jimmy Z. In 1988 his career took another turn when he finally went to work with his cousin Jerry Heller. Jerry was managing Eric "Eazy E" Wright and the infamous West Coast Gangsta rap group NWA. Jerry was also the General Manager of Eazy's record label "Ruthless Records". Jerry brought Gary on to be the production manager for the upcoming US tour and he helped the group develop their staging, sound & lighting. Gary sets the record straight about the movie "Straight Outta Compton" and what really happened with Suge Knight and Eazy E. He is currently writing a book and working on a script of his Ruthless Record days. He still performs today with his bands, 'Cool Hand Ukes', 'Gary & the Grooves' and his newest, most favorite project 'Rhythym & Hues', a unique fusion of live music and performance art. You can find out more and check out his music schedule at Garyballen.com He has an incredible history in music, please welcome to the show Gary Ballen!