David Geffen

David Lawrence Geffen (born February 21, 1943) is an influential figure in American film, music, and media. He began his journey in the entertainment industry in 1964, working as a mailroom clerk at a talent agency and quickly rose through the ranks due to his ability to read and interpret memos between agents. In music, he co-founded various record labels including Asylum Records, Geffen Records, and DreamWorks Records, and significantly contributed to the Southern California folk-rock sound. Asylum Records was known for signing artists who had difficulties finding a record contract elsewhere. Geffen is equally accomplished in the film industry, founding the Geffen Film Company and co-founding DreamWorks SKG with notable figures like Steven Spielberg and Jeffrey Katzenberg. Geffen's success in all his ventures has seen him recognized with numerous awards including the Ahmet Ertegun Award from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the President's Merit Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. Despite his success, Geffen has faced controversy, notably over beach access and allegations of insider trading.