Widely known as the wild man of rock, producer Phil Spector is responsible for some of the most sublime and representative rock music ever made, especially in the 1960s. After working with the Beatles and then with other bands in the70s, he withdrew from the music business. He was convicted of second degree murder in 2009, and is incarcerated in a California prison.
Even if you're not sure exactly who Phil Spector is, if you came of age anytime from the 60s until the 80s, you've been touched by his music. But you also have more than likely heard his name on the news if nothing else, concerning his scandalous trial and conviction in 2009 for the murder of Lana Clarkson, his actress girlfriend, in 2003.
Spector's fame and celebrity, however, go far beyond such recent events. While currently serving a 19 year sentence in prison, he remains a super-rich record producer, songwriter, and architect of some of the greatest rock and roll of our times. He's justly famous for his big hits, but he's also known for his reputation as a gun lover, as a ruthless businessman, as a compadre and producer of at least 2 of the Beatles, and in his later years as an unpredictable, off-kilter, dangerous character. For example, he verbally trounced Tina Turner at her ex-husband Ike's funeral in his eulogy, among many other strange public displays over the years.
Spector is a true American celebrity, a tragic hero for some and an ill-tempered buffoon for others.
Phil Spector Comments
frugalrvers, Do you know how Ringo Starr felt about the Let It Be album, and what Paul McCartney's disappointments were?
i never did like him and i am glad he is in jail. Sure, he made a massive success with "Let it Be" and he has recorded many artists but, i still never cared for him and i am glad he is in jail Justice pervails
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Genius and madness are often flip-sides on the same disc. The only question here is, which was the "A" side?
Thank goodness this crazy creep's former girlfriends came forward to help get him locked away, hopefully till his dying day. Just b/c this wacko had some talent, doesn't give him the right to murder whenever he feels like it. Rest in peace Lana Jean Clarkson.
Well I watch the movie on HBO. I belive that Phil Spector did not shot his girl friend. I don't belive he was crazy. Phile, I wish you were not locked up, but I hope you know that there are people who belive in you, that you could not have commited this crime, that she shot her-self. I hope you see the day when you are free again Your home is waiting on you.
Thanks for your sweet critique!
Reading this article about Mr. Spector sure beat listening to the news reports I heard. Currently in prison? What a waste. Though I must say I'm surprised. Thought they were gonna figure out a legal loophole to let him walk since he's such a rich guy. He wouldn't have been the first rich person to ever commit a crime and never see a prison cell. But I'll refrain from a detailed discussion of justice, crime and punishment, since this is categorized under the Music topic. :) Excellent article.
Mike, thanks for the comments! Yes, we are looking forward to seeing that HBO movie coming out, too! We heard about that and bet it will be really fantastic. There was an article I saw a few days ago that said Al Pacino would not meet with Phil in prison to "prep" for the role...gotta find that article again!
That is a great article, frugalrvers! The documentary seems quite interesting. There is also the upcoming HBO's movie, Phil Spector by David Mamet with Al Pacino in Spector's role that shoud be really interesting!
Katie, compliments like that from a senior Wizzley writer (don't mean age in that reference!) mean a lot...thank you