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David Geffen, born February 21, 1943, in Brooklyn, New York, is an influential American business magnate, producer, film studio executive, and philanthropist. He is best known for his contributions to the music and film industries through the establishment of Geffen Records, DGC Records, and DreamWorks SKG.
Early Life and Education
David Geffen was born to Jewish immigrant parents in Brooklyn. His father was a pattern maker, and his mother owned a clothing store. Geffen attended Brooklyn’s New Utrecht High School but struggled academically. He briefly attended the University of Texas at Austin and Brooklyn College but did not graduate. He moved to Los Angeles, where he worked in the mailroom at the William Morris Agency.
Entry into the Music Industry
Geffen’s career in the entertainment industry began at the William Morris Agency, where he worked his way up to become a talent agent. In 1969, he co-founded Asylum Records with Elliot Roberts. The label signed notable artists such as Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, and the Eagles, contributing significantly to the rock music scene of the 1970s.
Geffen Records and DGC Records
In 1980, Geffen founded Geffen Records. The label became home to many successful artists, including:
- Donna Summer
- Elton John
- Cher
- Aerosmith
- Guns N’ Roses
- Nirvana (signed under DGC Records, a subsidiary of Geffen Records)
Geffen Records became known for its diverse and successful artist roster, making a significant impact on the music industry.
Film Industry and DreamWorks
Geffen expanded into the film industry by co-founding DreamWorks SKG in 1994 with Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg. DreamWorks became a major player in Hollywood, producing critically acclaimed and commercially successful films such as:
- “Saving Private Ryan” (1998)
- “American Beauty” (1999)
- “Shrek” (2001)
- “Gladiator” (2000)
Philanthropy
David Geffen is also known for his philanthropy, particularly in the fields of medicine, education, and the arts. His major contributions include:
- A $200 million donation to UCLA School of Medicine, which was renamed the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
- Significant donations to the arts, including funding for the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles and contributions to the Museum of Modern Art and the Lincoln Center in New York.
Personal Life
Geffen is openly gay and has been a prominent supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. He has used his influence and resources to support various social causes and political campaigns.
Legacy
David Geffen’s legacy is marked by his transformative impact on both the music and film industries. His keen eye for talent and innovative business strategies have left an indelible mark on entertainment, and his philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact on education and the arts.
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