MUSIC INDUSTRY MOURNS THE LOSS OF BARRY SQUIRE, VISIONARY A&R EXECUTIVE AND BELOVED MEMBER OF THE SANTA MONICA COMMUNITY: A Life of Unwavering Dedication to Music, Artists, and Community Leaves an Indelible Mark on the Industry and Beyond
It is with profound sadness that the music industry announces the passing of Barry Squire, a highly respected A&R executive whose extraordinary career spanned several decades and helped shape the modern music industry. Barry died peacefully in Santa Monica, California, leaving behind a legacy that touched the lives of countless artists, colleagues, and music lovers alike.
Barry’s career in the music business was a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to identifying and nurturing emerging talent. As a renowned A&R executive, he had an uncanny ability to hear something special in raw, untapped talent and had a unique gift for connecting those artists with the right opportunities, collaborators, and platforms to help them reach their full potential.
Many of the successful musicians and bands he worked with credit Barry for their breakthroughs and for having faith in their sound long before it was commercially viable. In his role, Barry was not just a tastemaker and career-maker — he was a mentor and a guiding force in the often overwhelming world of the music industry.
Known for his keen ear, sharp instincts, and professionalism, he was also admired for his genuine kindness and compassion. Whether working with a world-famous rock band or an up-and-coming singer-songwriter, Barry’s approach was always grounded in respect and authenticity.
He was never just an industry executive but a friend, a counselor, and an advocate for the artists he worked with. His influence helped shape the sound of multiple generations and ensured that many deserving voices found a platform in the competitive landscape of music.
But Barry’s impact wasn’t confined to the professional world. He was deeply embedded in the fabric of the Santa Monica community, where he was known for his warmth, generosity, and willingness to help anyone who sought his advice.
Whether offering mentorship to young musicians, providing support to local charities, or simply lending a listening ear, Barry was always there for others. He became a fixture in the community, admired for his unwavering belief in the power of music and his desire to see those around him succeed, both professionally and personally.
Outside of his career, Barry was a devoted family man, whose love for his family was evident to all who knew him. His personal relationships reflected the same care and dedication that marked his professional life.
Barry’s friends and loved ones will remember him not only for his incredible professional achievements but for his kindness, humor, and the unwavering loyalty he showed to those who were fortunate enough to be close to him.
As the music world mourns his passing, Barry Squire’s influence will live on in the work of the artists he helped nurture and the generations of music industry professionals who learned from his example.
His legacy as a mentor, a leader, and a friend will continue to inspire and shape the music world for years to come. Barry is survived by his loving family, who have expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support from the music community and beyond during this difficult time.
In his honor, a memorial service will be held in the coming weeks to celebrate his life, his work, and the immeasurable impact he had on those who knew him. Barry Squire was more than just an A&R executive; he was a visionary whose commitment to music, to artists, and to his community will be remembered forever.
He will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to resonate through the music that bears his mark. As the music industry reflects on Barry’s life and career, they are reminded of the profound impact one person can have on the world.
Barry Squire’s passing leaves a void in the music industry, but his influence will continue to inspire and guide future generations of musicians, industry professionals, and music lovers alike. His legacy is a testament to the power of music to bring people together, to inspire, and to transform lives.
As the music world says goodbye to this extraordinary individual, they take comfort in the knowledge that Barry’s impact will be felt for years to come. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched, and his legacy will continue to shape the music industry in profound and lasting ways.
